Emerging Tech Innovation Specialist
Core
Researcher and technical generalist leading research on AI and emerging technologies for development in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), focusing on identifying opportunities, risks, and best practices for impact-driven innovation.
Role type
Senior IC researcher and technical analyst
Builds
Policy reports, research briefs, slide decks, blogs, case studies, and strategic research agendas
Domain
International development, Artificial Intelligence, Emerging Technologies
Deliverable
dashboards & analysis
Required skills
Global-level research, AI ecosystem fluency (infrastructure, data, models, compute), technical architecture assessment, qualitative research methodologies, project management, stakeholder engagement, written communication
Preferred skills
Quantitative research methodologies, startup/incubator partnership experience, knowledge of responsible AI design in resource-constrained settings, second language proficiency
Technologies
LLMs, SLMs, IoT, GIS, blockchain
Responsibilities
Conduct comprehensive global research on AI for development; Define scope and methodology for research projects; Produce high-quality written outputs (reports, briefs, decks); Monitor and analyze emerging tech trends; Assess technical/commercial architecture of AI solutions; Translate technical understanding into actionable insights for investment and partnerships; Provide expertise and guidance to innovators; Support Innovation Fund grantees; Engage with diverse ecosystem stakeholders; Promote research through events and thought leadership; Contribute to shaping the research agenda.
Seniority
Senior, hands-on IC with strategic focus