The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people whose lives and livelihoods are shattered by conflict and disaster to survive, recover, and gain control of their future. At the core of IRC’s innovation and research strategy is the Airbel Impact Lab—a dynamic unit dedicated to designing, testing, and scaling life-changing, cost-effective solutions that deliver tangible impact for vulnerable populations.
As part of its ongoing mission to produce and scale breakthrough innovations, IRC is seeking a Data Science Research Lead. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced professional who is passionate about using data science to drive rigorous research and evidence generation in fragile and low-resource environments. You will work at the intersection of frontier technology and humanitarian research to advance the efficiency, precision, and quality of data systems at IRC.
This is a part-time (50%) position for an initial 6-month period, with the potential for extension based on performance and project needs.
Job Description
Core Responsibilities
As the Data Science Research Lead, you will support the Airbel team and IRC’s broader research initiatives in two key areas:
1. Upgrade and Implement IRC’s Data Systems for Research
- Develop and institutionalize Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for data capture, management, and analysis for research-related activities.
- Create and promote shared technical resources including standardized electronic survey templates, dashboards, databases, and analytic code repositories.
- Train researchers and systems managers on best practices for data collection, handling, and interpretation.
- Disseminate gold standard research practices, ensuring consistency and compliance across all IRC-led studies.
- Develop knowledge-sharing products such as sample analysis walkthroughs, example reports, internal and external expert contact lists, and coding support communities.
- Provide advisory support for ongoing data analysis using IRC’s existing research datasets.
2. Drive Use of Cutting-Edge Data Science Methods in Research
- Identify, prioritize, and introduce frontier data science approaches relevant to IRC’s work. This includes alternative data sources like satellite imagery, geospatial mapping, mobile phone data, and advanced research methodologies such as adaptive RCTs and AI-powered synthesis tools.
- Lead a portfolio of research projects that leverage innovative data sources and analytical tools, enhancing both the depth and reach of IRC’s evidence base.
- Develop and implement a mentorship framework and establish a community of practice to build internal capacity in advanced data analytics.
- Evaluate and promote innovative data collection technologies that are fit for purpose in fragile, resource-limited settings.
- Act as a technology scout, identifying “leap-frog” innovations and building strategic vendor partnerships to introduce underutilized tools that could add value to research delivery at IRC.
Key Working Relationships
- Reports to: Senior Director of Research, Airbel Impact Lab
- Internal Contacts: Research Practice Team, Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL) Teams
- External Contacts: Technology Vendors, Data Solution Providers, Academic Collaborators
Qualifications and Competencies
While academic qualifications are valued, IRC places greater emphasis on demonstrated expertise and experience in the field. The ideal candidate will bring a blend of technical rigor, creative thinking, and a strong commitment to humanitarian impact.
