Lead with Tech: Research Opportunity at UNICEF
Lead with Tech: Research Opportunity at UNICEF
Introduction
UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund, operates with a mission to advocate for the rights of children worldwide, ensuring they have access to education, healthcare, protection, and opportunities for development. One of UNICEF’s pioneering initiatives is Giga, launched in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in 2019. Giga aims to connect every school globally to the internet, thereby bridging the digital divide and empowering children and youth with essential digital skills and access to information.
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Overview of Giga
Giga addresses a critical gap in global education and development by focusing on universal internet connectivity for schools. In many parts of the world, especially in remote and underserved areas, access to the internet remains limited or non-existent. This lack of connectivity not only hampers educational opportunities but also limits economic and social development. By leveraging partnerships and technology, Giga seeks to transform education systems, making them more inclusive and equitable.
Goals of Giga
The primary goal of Giga is to:
- Connect every school globally to the internet.
- Empower children and young people with digital skills and opportunities.
- Foster economic and social development through enhanced connectivity.
Impact of Connectivity
Connectivity is not just about accessing information; it’s about enabling communities to thrive. The Economist Intelligence Unit’s report underscores that a 10% increase in school connectivity can significantly enhance effective years of schooling and GDP per capita, highlighting the profound impact of internet access on educational outcomes and economic prosperity.
Role of the Research Lead (Technology)
The Research Lead (Technology) plays a pivotal role within UNICEF’s Giga team in Barcelona. This position is dedicated to advancing technological research and innovation, particularly in areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain, machine learning, and geospatial analysis. These technologies are instrumental in optimizing connectivity solutions and enhancing the effectiveness of educational interventions supported by Giga.
Responsibilities
As the Research Lead (Technology), your responsibilities include:
- Team Leadership and Management: Leading a team of researchers, fostering their professional development, and ensuring alignment with Giga’s strategic goals.
- Research Strategy Development: Developing comprehensive research strategies that harness AI, blockchain, and other emerging technologies to support Giga’s mission.
- Project Oversight: Managing the full lifecycle of research projects, from conceptualization to implementation and dissemination of findings.
- Partnership Development: Collaborating with academic institutions, industry partners, and technology providers to enhance the applicability and impact of research outcomes.
- Insight Generation: Synthesizing complex data into actionable insights and strategic recommendations for senior management and external stakeholders.
- Communication and Advocacy: Effectively communicating research findings through reports, presentations, and publications to influence policy, drive innovation, and promote Giga’s objectives globally.
Strategic Impact
The Research Lead’s work is instrumental in shaping Giga’s technological roadmap and ensuring that innovations align with the needs and aspirations of partner countries and communities. By harnessing cutting-edge technologies, UNICEF aims to create scalable solutions that not only connect schools but also transform educational ecosystems, making them more resilient and adaptive to future challenges.
Qualifications and Skills Required
To qualify for this consultancy role, candidates should possess:
- Educational Background: An advanced degree in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, Data Science, or a related field. Candidates with a first university degree and additional relevant experience may also be considered.
- Professional Experience: A minimum of 5 years of experience in technological research and development, with demonstrated expertise in AI, blockchain, machine learning, or geospatial analysis. Experience in leading research teams and managing complex, high-impact projects is essential.
- Technical Proficiency: In-depth knowledge of emerging technologies and their applications, particularly in the context of educational connectivity and development.
- Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with the capacity to synthesize complex research findings into actionable insights and strategic recommendations.
- Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are required. Fluency in Spanish is highly desirable, and proficiency in another official UN language is advantageous.
- Additional Competencies: Experience working in start-up environments, collaborating with private sector technology companies, or within UNICEF programme countries is beneficial.
Application Process
Interested candidates are invited to apply through the UNICEF Careers Portal, ensuring that their application includes:
- Financial Proposal: A comprehensive financial proposal covering consultancy fees, travel expenses (economy class), daily subsistence allowance, visa fees, travel insurance, and any other relevant costs as specified in the Terms of Reference (ToRs).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Cover Letter: Highlighting relevant qualifications, professional experience, and a clear motivation for applying to the Research Lead (Technology) position at Giga.
- References: Contact information for professional references who can attest to the candidate’s skills and qualifications.
Selection Process
The selection process for the Research Lead position involves:
- Application Review: Screening of applications to assess candidates’ qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role’s requirements.
- Shortlisting: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment, which may include interviews, technical assessments, and reference checks.
- Final Selection: The final selection will be based on the candidate’s overall suitability for the role, including their technical expertise, leadership abilities, and alignment with UNICEF’s values and mission.
Inclusivity and Diversity
UNICEF values diversity and inclusivity, welcoming applicants from diverse backgrounds, genders, nationalities, and abilities. The organization is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. UNICEF’s commitment to diversity ensures that its workforce reflects the communities it serves, promoting innovation and effectiveness in achieving its global mandate.
Conclusion
The Research Lead (Technology) role at UNICEF’s Giga initiative presents a unique opportunity to contribute to global education and development through innovative technological solutions. By leveraging AI, blockchain, and other cutting-edge technologies, this position aims to transform educational connectivity, empower communities, and create sustainable impact worldwide. If you are passionate about leveraging technology for social good and have the requisite qualifications, we encourage you to apply and be part of UNICEF’s mission to build a better world for every child.
For more information about Giga and UNICEF’s global initiatives, visit Giga Global and follow updates on Twitter @GigaGlobal.
Keywords: UNICEF, Giga, Research Lead, Technology, Consultant, Barcelona, Spain, AI, blockchain, machine learning, geospatial analysis, innovation, connectivity, education, global development
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