About the job<\/p>\n
\tThe Director of Research & Learning leads Shamiri\u2019s research, evidence generation, and organizational learning agenda.
\n\tThe role ensures that Shamiri\u2019s programs, interventions, and innovations are grounded in rigorous scientific evidence, continuously improved through learning, and translated into real-world impact at scale. As Shamiri enters its next growth chapter, the organization is moving from proving the model works to achieving impact at scale.
\n\tThis transition requires a fundamental rethinking of how research and learning function\u2014shifting from validation alone to a dual learning engine that combines high-certainty evidence generation with rapid, applied optimization.<\/p>\n
Why this role<\/p>\n
The organization requires a highly capable Research & Learning function that can:<\/p>\n
\tOperate a dual-engine learning system: an Evidence Engine for high-certainty knowledge generation (RCTs, causal inference) and an Optimization Engine for rapid, applied learning (A\/B tests, implementation experiments)
\n\tLead the decomposition and zone classification of intervention components\u2014distinguishing what is fixed (Zone A), adaptable with evidence (Zone B), and operational (Zone C)
\n\tConduct randomized and quasi-experimental evaluations that answer questions critical to government adoption and scale
\n\tGenerate evidence that informs delivery decisions, model simplification, cost reduction, and technology development
\n\tIntegrate research findings into real-time learning cycles for service delivery, tech, and clinical teams
\n\tMaintain partnerships with universities, research collaborators, and scientific advisors
\n\tSupport Shamiri\u2019s thought leadership through publications, policy briefs, and field-building communications
\n\tA senior leader is needed to ensure methodological rigor, govern adaptation decisions through explicit frameworks, and create clear pathways for evidence to inform practice at scale.<\/p>\n
Roles and responsibilities<\/p>\n
Leadership of the Research & Learning Agenda & Team<\/p>\n
\tProvide strategic vision and operational oversight for all research and learning activities.
\n\tManage and mentor senior research associates, learning & optimization associates, data science staff, and other research personnel.
\n\tOversee resource allocation, staffing, timelines, and workflows across the division.
\n\tCreate a cohesive, collaborative, and high-performing team culture oriented toward learning and impact.<\/p>\n
Dual-Engine Learning System<\/p>\n
\tOperationalize Shamiri\u2019s \u201cLearning While Scaling\u201d framework as a core organizational system.
\n\tLead the Evidence Engine: design and execute high-certainty studies (RCTs, cluster trials, pragmatic trials) answering whether interventions work, for whom, through what mechanisms, and at what cost.
\n\tLead the Optimization Engine: establish infrastructure for rapid experimentation (A\/B tests, factorial designs, implementation pilots) to improve delivery, reduce costs, and enhance implementation.
\n\tEnsure both engines operate as a coordinated system with shared data infrastructure, documentation, and governance.<\/p>\n
Model Decomposition & Zone Classification<\/p>\n
\tComplete decomposition of Shamiri\u2019s intervention model into constituent components (theory of change, behavior-driver mapping, component inventory).
\n\tAssign components to certainty zones: Zone A (core mechanisms requiring RCT before modification), Zone B (directionally validated requiring systematic evaluation), Zone C (operational details requiring monitoring).
\n\tEstablish escalation and de-escalation triggers governing when components move between zones based on accumulating evidence.
\n\tEnsure zone classification logic is understood and used organization-wide, not just within research.<\/p>\n
Research Governance & Adaptation Review<\/p>\n
\tConvene and staff the Adaptation Review Board (ARB)\u2014the decision-making body for adaptation approvals, zone reclassifications, and resource allocation across learning engines.
\n\tCoordinate with the Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) for external scientific guidance on Evidence Engine studies and results interpretation.
\n\tEnsure all adaptation decisions are documented, transparent, and governed by pre-specified criteria rather than ad hoc judgment.<\/p>\n
Research Strategy & Study Design<\/p>\n
\tLead development of the organization\u2019s annual research agenda, reconciling prior trials, ongoing research, and strategic priorities.
\n\tDesign randomized controlled trials, cluster trials, pragmatic trials, and hybrid effectiveness-implementation designs.
\n\tGuide sampling strategies, power analyses, study protocols, and pre-registration.
\n\tEnsure all studies meet high standards of methodological rigor and ethical protection.
\n\tProvide direction on qualitative, mixed-methods, and mechanism research where needed.<\/p>\n
Research Implementation & Quality Assurance<\/p>\n
\tOversee day-to-day execution of research studies across sites and delivery models.
\n\tEnsure accurate, ethical, and high-quality data collection practices.
\n\tBuild systems for monitoring study fidelity, adherence to protocols, and research integrity.
\n\tTroubleshoot study issues and support teams to ensure timelines are met.<\/p>\n
Data Systems, Measurement & Analysis<\/p>\n
\tOversee development of measurement frameworks, assessment tools, and analytical approaches.
\n\tEnsure data is managed securely and in line with ethical standards.
\n\tGuide advanced statistical analysis and interpretation.
\n\tCollaborate with Technology team on data integration between research systems, shamiriOS, and shamiriAI.
\n\tLead development of dashboards, learning cycles, and reporting tools for internal use.<\/p>\n
Organizational Learning & Decision Support<\/p>\n
\tBuild systems to translate research findings into practical insights for service delivery, tech, and clinical teams.
\n\tEstablish regular cross-team learning reviews where Optimization Engine and Evidence Engine share findings.
\n\tTranslate findings into updates to playbooks, training materials, and supervision protocols.
\n\tSupport rapid experimentation and iterative improvement of interventions within Zone B and Zone C boundaries.
\n\tProvide evidence-informed recommendations to senior leadership.<\/p>\n
Publications, Knowledge Management & Thought Leadership<\/p>\n
\tLead development of academic manuscripts, conference presentations, policy briefs, and internal knowledge products.
\n\tSupport team members in writing, editing, and submitting publications.
\n\tContribute to Shamiri\u2019s communications strategy through research-backed thought leadership content.
\n\tMaintain organized internal archives of research protocols, datasets, and findings.<\/p>\n
Partnerships & External Engagement<\/p>\n
\tBuild and maintain partnerships with universities, research institutions, and collaborators.
\n\tRepresent Shamiri in research networks, conferences, working groups, and advisory bodies.
\n\tSupport grant writing and reporting related to research activities.
\n\tEnsure alignment between research partners and programmatic priorities.<\/p>\n
Ethics, Compliance & Risk Management<\/p>\n
\tOversee IRB submissions, renewals, and compliance.
\n\tEnsure staff follow ethical standards in data collection, participant protection, and data use.
\n\tManage research risk and safeguarding procedures across all study activities.<\/p>\n
Requirements<\/p>\n
Qualifications<\/p>\n
\tMaster\u2019s or equivalent advanced degree in psychology, economics, public health, behavioral science, education, epidemiology, or related field. PhD preferred.
\n\tAt least 5 years of experience in research management or applied research settings, with demonstrated experience leading research teams and managing complex studies.
\n\tStrong record of authorship in peer-reviewed publications.
\n\tExperience in program evaluation, implementation science, or mental health research preferred.
\n\tExperience designing and running rapid-cycle experiments or operational research is a strong advantage.
\n\tProficiency in quantitative analysis (R, Python, or equivalent) required. Note: We do not use STATA, SPSS, or similar paid analytical tools. Qualitative methods experience is an advantage.
\n\tExperience with field-based data collection in low-resource, school-based, or community settings is preferred.
\n\tExperience working in Sub-Saharan Africa or similar contexts is strongly preferred.<\/p>\n
Key Competencies<\/p>\n
\tStrong leadership and team management skills
\n\tDeep expertise in research design, implementation, and analysis
\n\tStrong understanding of randomized trials, experimental methods, quasi-experimental designs, and mixed-methods approaches
\n\tAbility to design and operate rapid learning systems alongside rigorous evidence generation
\n\tExcellent analytical judgment and ability to translate findings into actionable recommendations
\n\tAdvanced knowledge of measurement, psychometrics, and youth mental health outcomes
\n\tExcellent written communication and scientific writing skills
\n\tStrong project management capability
\n\tHigh ethical standards and commitment to research integrity
\n\tAbility to work collaboratively with diverse internal and external partners
\n\tComfort operating at the intersection of research rigor and operational realities of scale<\/p>\n
Apply Through:<\/p>\n
people.shamiri.co<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"template":"","meta":{"_promoted":"","_job_location":"","_application":"http:\/\/people.shamiri.co","_company_name":"Shamiri Institute","_company_website":"https:\/\/www.shamiri.institute\/","_company_tagline":"Our mission is to provide youths, in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and beyond, with evidence-based tools to improve their life outcomes. We believe in a world where youth, anywhere, can actualize their life outcomes. Founded at Harvard and launched in Kenya in 2018, we combine rigorous social science ... read moreresearch with deep contextual knowledge of the education and mental healthcare space in SSA and beyond. Since 2018, we've deployed 400 interventions to more than 1600 youths in 10 schools in Kenya. Rigorous gold-standard field experiments show our model works: our intervention reduces depression and anxiety and improves peer relationships and academic performance. In a region where half the population is 19 or younger, our potential for impact is immense. In 2021, we are delivering our in-person group-based intervention, Project Thrive!, to 5,000 students across 25 schools, and delivering our digital intervention, Thrive! Online, to 100,000 Kenyan youths.","_company_twitter":"","_company_video":"","_filled":0,"_featured":0,"_remote_position":0,"_job_salary":"","_job_salary_currency":"","_job_salary_unit":""},"job_listing_region":[692],"job-categories":[699,702,747,722],"job-types":[1166],"class_list":{"0":"post-93409","1":"job_listing","2":"type-job_listing","3":"status-publish","4":"hentry","5":"job_listing_region-nairobi","7":"job-type-full-time-hybrid"},"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/jobs.dataaxisnode.com\/kenya\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/job-listings\/93409","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/jobs.dataaxisnode.com\/kenya\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/job-listings"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/jobs.dataaxisnode.com\/kenya\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/job_listing"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/jobs.dataaxisnode.com\/kenya\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/jobs.dataaxisnode.com\/kenya\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=93409"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"job_listing_region","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/jobs.dataaxisnode.com\/kenya\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/job_listing_region?post=93409"},{"taxonomy":"job_listing_category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/jobs.dataaxisnode.com\/kenya\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/job-categories?post=93409"},{"taxonomy":"job_listing_type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/jobs.dataaxisnode.com\/kenya\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/job-types?post=93409"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}