Research Officer

The Research Officer will play a crucial role in conducting research, developing solutions, and implementing projects integrating Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and similar technologies as innovations applicable across the agricultural and water sectors. This position requires a unique combination of expertise in Digital Media, as well as proficiency in Virtual Reality (VR) and AR creative technologies and virtual environments, with a strong interest in agricultural development in Africa.

As a front-end developer, the Research Officer must present creative inputs into the overall look and feel of innovations as well as practical considerations such as User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX). Research reports must be delivered to support creative decisions and provide insights and expertise on inclusivity and the digital divide, restrictions, challenges, risk assessments, potential impacts, and affordances when adopting innovations. Additionally, the Research Officer will contribute to generating research outputs to disseminate findings and contribute to the broader scientific community.

**DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES**:

- Assist in the development and management of partnerships with academic institutions, research organizations, and technology providers to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange.
- Stakeholder engagement and management: maintain relationships and schedule regular meetings with partners, consultants, and government representatives contributing to Digital-focused initiatives and/or specific projects.
- Assist researchers with digital workshop planning and hosting to increase engagement and interactivity.
- User testing and evaluation: develop a feedback system for reflection and improvement of innovations through surveys, questionnaires, and other appropriate feedback mechanisms; design and conduct experiments and fieldwork to collect data and evaluate the effectiveness of VR and AR technologies in agricultural and water management.
- Research reports and publications: write research papers and reports on the latest advancements in AI creative technologies and asses the feasibility of adoption into IWMI’s projects; conduct research and analysis on technology practices and policies; analyse and interpret research findings, and prepare reports, presentations, and publications for internal and external dissemination.
- Develop toolkits and user manuals for ease-of-use and practical training of equipment and processes of AI creative technologies such as VR head-mounted displays (HMDs) for workshops and relevant events.
- Support various initiatives and the communications teams in adopting immersive and interactive communication methods; collaborate with team members to identify digital solutions and opportunities in the field of agricultural and water management; provide technical support and guidance to project teams and partners in the integration and utilization of VR and AR technologies.
- manage and implement Virtual Field Trips (VFTs), ensuring smooth execution and maximizing their impact on target audiences.

**Requirements**:
**EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE**:
**Essential,**
- Master’s degree in Digital Media or a related field.
- Minimum of 02 years of work experience in creative teams in a fast-paced working environment.
- Previous research work experience in digital technologies.
- Demonstrated expertise and experience in Virtual Reality (VR) and AR creative technologies and virtual environments.
- A creative portfolio showcasing past work using Virtual Reality (VR) and similar technologies.
- Strong background in research methodologies, ethics, and inclusion.

**Desirable,**
- Previous technology-focused research experience with a geographical focus on developing countries in the East and Southern African (ESA) region.
- Previous experience training people at the university level on Virtual Reality (VR) and similar technologies.
- An accredited certification in Research Ethics from an academic institution.
- Minimum of 6 months of previous research work experience in the CGIAR.

**KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES**:
**Essential,**
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present complex information in a clear and concise manner.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment, with a proactive and self-motivated attitude.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think creatively and propose innovative solutions.
- Willingness to travel and a commitment to continuous learning, eager to regularly attend workshops and AI conferences as required.
- Excellent oral and written language skills in English, including effective listening and strong verbal and written communication abilities.

**Desirable,**
- Communication skills in local languages of East and Southern Africa.
- Proficiency in relevant software and tools used for Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Realit