LDRI

Call For Application: Research Assistant

The Local Development Research Institute (LDRI) is conducting research with select government and private sector entities to establish frameworks and institutional capacity to periodically seek feedback and engage with communities on their AI and data rights. Our end goal is to empower citizens to ask the right questions, understand the responses, and effectively assert their rights while supporting institutions to improve their data practices and contribute to a more responsible and respectful data environment. We are looking for an individual with a keen interest in growing as an AI researcher to support the project.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Conduct a comprehensive landscape analysis of AI and data rights within public institutions and private companies in select countries of focus. 
  • Gather data on the existing mechanisms and protocols used by these institutions to handle, process, and store personal data.
  • Work closely with the project lead to evaluate existing capacities and identify areas for improvement within the target institutions.
  • Support the design and implementation of public participation forums to test developed frameworks.
  • Document findings and support the project lead to create periodic reports
  • Assist in organizing workshops, seminars, and other outreach events.

Qualifications and Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Social Science, Public Policy, or a related field. (Master’s or ongoing graduate studies is a definite advantage.)
  • Familiarity with the Zambian/Kenyan and African data and AI landscape. Previous experience in research, community engagement, or AI/data rights would be advantageous.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Proficiency in qualitative data analysis.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proactive and able to work with minimal supervision.

Please submit your application before 22 April ,2024.