The Consultant-Data science will support KALRO in managing and analyzing large datasets, contributing to the development of a data stack, Federated Learning and performing various data science tasks necessary for the successful implementation of project activities. This role is critical in ensuring that the data-driven insights generated by the project are effectively used to inform policy and practice in agricultural innovation and resilience.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
Data Management and Development:
Assist in developing and maintaining the KALRO data stack, including data pipelines, databases, and cloud-based tools to achieve a single identity across multiple databases.
Harmonize diverse data sources, including databases, APIs, and external services.
Participate in the development of federated learning technologies and ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes for data ingestion, data stewardship, transformation, and storage.
Data Analysis:
Conduct data cleaning, enrichment, and transformation for analysis and reporting.
Perform statistical analyses, including Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis to generate farmer typologies.
Develop and deploy data visualization tools and dashboards to support decision-making processes.
Machine Learning & Predictive Modeling:
Assist in the development and application of machine learning models for predictive analytics, classification, and anomaly detection.
Contribute to the evaluation and optimization of these models for use in agricultural decision-making processes.
Collaboration & Coordination:
Work closely with KALRO, CGIAR and University of Leeds scientists, and other stakeholders to ensure seamless integration and application of data science tools.
Participate in workshops, meetings, and other collaborative activities to support the co-development of advisory services and the review of ISRA metrics.
Facilitate the dissemination of data-driven insights to smallholder farmers and other stakeholders in the region.
Research Support:
Support field research activities, including household surveys, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews in Kisumu, Siaya, Vihiga, and Busia counties.
Assist in the preparation of research reports, policy briefs, and academic publications based on data analysis results.
Requirements
The candidate should have completed a Master's degree (Preferably an MBA or MSc) with specialization in Finance, Marketing, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Agribusiness.
5+ years of professional experience supporting the start-up of commercial agribusiness production, sales, and marketing operations.
Experience promoting the introduction and adoption of new agriculture technology in Rwanda and East Africa.
Experience advising small and medium private agribusinesses involved in agri-food systems and/or circular ventures.
Demonstrated knowledge and experience related to SMEs, access to finance, the private sector, and entrepreneurship development.
Experience in successful engagement with public sector institutions.
Excellent communication skills, able to interact with a multi-cultural and interdisciplinary team of scientists and development partners in layman language.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English and working proficiency in French, and Kinyarwanda.
Affinity with multi-stakeholder approaches
Proactive and independent problem solver, and excellent team player.
A good understanding of the circular economy theories, approaches, and policy landscape in Rwanda is an advantage.
Proven capacity in publishing technical, and/or scientific documents such as journal articles, and policy briefs are an advantage.
Proven project management skills.
Experience with monitoring and evaluation of research for development interventions is considered an advantage.