Graduate Trainee – Data and AI
ORGANISATION OVERVIEW
The Science for Africa Foundation (SFA
Foundation) is a non-profit, public charity organisation that supports
strengthens and promotes science innovation in Africa. The goal of the SFA
Foundation is to address the continent’s most pressing developmental needs by
generating scientific knowledge that solves problems and informs
decision-making.
We serve the African research ecosystem by funding excellent
research and innovation ideas; enabling interdisciplinary collaboration among
researchers, building and reinforcing environments that are conducive for
scientists to thrive and producing quality research that generates new, locally
relevant knowledge.
The SFA Foundation takes a holistic approach to the
development of science. Our programmatic initiatives are crafted to cater to
the entire science ecosystem and span across the value chain from early
discovery sciences to translation sciences and target cross-cutting gaps.
Our commitment to strengthening the entire research
ecosystem is reflected in the creation of major science and innovation
programmes implemented through a well-established grant-making scheme,
advocacy, and promotion of scientific excellence, emphasis on intra-Africa
collaboration and evidence-based policymaking mechanisms.
THE SFA FOUNDATION GRADUATE TRAINEE PROGRAMME
Are you passionate about science, and what enables delivery
of the same, eager to learn and take on new challenges? Do you possess strong
analytical and problem-solving skills, possess excellent communication and
interpersonal skills coupled with ability to work well in a team-oriented
environment? Then explore the graduate trainee openings within SFA Foundation.
We invite talented and driven individuals to join our
Graduate Trainee Programme for a fixed term period of one year. Although the
Program does not guarantee employment at SFA Foundation, it prepares trainees
by giving them the necessary experience.
We are looking for motivated candidates who are eager to
grow, innovate, and make an impact. Our Graduate Trainee Programme offers the
perfect chance to launch your career. With hands-on training, mentorship, and
real exposure, you will develop the expertise needed to excel in a dynamic,
collaborative, and supportive environment.
POSITION OVERVIEW
|
Position Title |
Graduate Trainee — Data and AI |
|
Department |
Programmes |
|
Reporting To |
Data Officer |
|
Position Location |
Nairobi, Kenya |
JOB PURPOSE
This role offers a dynamic learning and development
opportunity for a motivated and innovative individual, the opportunity to
contribute directly to the Chief Scientific Officer’s (CSO) work.
The SFA Foundation exists to respond to the development
challenges and opportunities in Africa. Our belief is that science, technology,
and innovation can provide knowledge to solve these challenges. The SFA
Foundation CSO heads and oversees our science programmes’ function, which is a
key driver to delivering our core business. Together with other members of this
Office, you will contribute to the data and AI-driven initiatives. Among other
things, this work will aim to:
- Enhance
knowledge sharing and collaboration.
- Support
evidence-based decision making.
- Build
institutional memory and capacity.
We are seeking a motivated Graduate Trainee to join our team
and support the development and implementation of data and AI-driven
initiatives. The trainee will assist in collecting, analysing, and visualising
data to generate actionable insights, contribute to the design of AI tools for
knowledge organisation and retrieval, and help maintain a robust knowledge
repository. This role offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on
experience in cutting-edge data and AI technologies while contributing to impactful
programs that advance science and innovation across Africa. The ideal candidate
will have a strong interest in data science, and AI, along with a passion for
leveraging technology to drive positive change.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Assist
in gathering, cleaning, and organising data from various sources to ensure
it is ready for analysis and use in AI models.
- Perform
basic data analysis and create visualisations (e.g., charts, dashboards)
to communicate insights effectively to stakeholders.
- Collaborate
with the team to design, test, and refine AI-driven tools for knowledge
organisation, retrieval, and recommendation systems.
- Help
populate, update, and manage the digital knowledge repository, ensuring it
is user-friendly and accessible.
- Conduct
research on best practices in data and AI for knowledge management and
document processes, findings, and lessons learned.
- Work
closely with team members and programme stakeholders to understand their
data and knowledge needs and provide technical support as required.
- Any
other duties as may be assigned from time to time.
PERSON SPECIFICATIONS
Academic Qualifications
- In the
final year of or have just completed your master’s degree in computer
science, Data Science, Applied Mathematics or a related field.
Experience
- No
work experience is needed.
Knowledge, Skills and Attributes
- Experience
of using techniques and frameworks for artificial intelligence, machine
learning, data visualisation and data analytics.
- Familiarity
with machine learning frameworks is desirable.
- Experience
in conducting research and writing reports.
- Familiarity
with programming languages (preferably Python and R).
- Must
demonstrate ability to pay attention to details.
- Inter-personal
skills and experience working within teams.
- Excellent
communication skills to deal with a variety of people at different levels
of seniority.