Careers

The IGC seeks to employ highly qualified, committed, and passionate individuals to join our teams in London and around the world. We are currently hiring for:


Data Engineer (Zambia Evidence Lab)

The International Growth Centre (IGC) and the LSE Data Science Institute (DSI) are hiring a Data Engineer for the Zambia Evidence Lab. This is a fixed term contract until 30 September 2026. The salary ranges from £42,429 to £50,656pa inclusive with potential to progress to £54,295pa inclusive of London allowance.

The International Growth Centre (IGC) works with policymakers in developing countries to promote inclusive and sustainable growth through pathbreaking research. We are a global research centre with a network of world-leading researchers and in-country teams and initiatives working across Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East. Based at LSE and in partnership with the University of Oxford, we are majority funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). We work to improve the productivity of people and firms as the key driver of sustainable economic development.

The Data Science Institute forms the institutional cornerstone of data science and Artificial Intelligence (AI) activity at the LSE. Working alongside academic departments and research centres across the School, the DSI fosters research, education and engagement in the study of data science and AI through a social science lens.

Based at the IGC Head office at LSE in London and reporting to IGC Country Manager for Zambia, the Data Engineer will lead the development of data architecture and key data products for the Zambia Evidence Lab (ZEL) at the Ministry of Finance and National Planning. ZEL, a pathbreaking government-led initiative, aims to enhance the use of data to support evidence-based policymaking in Zambia. Critical to this aim, this role involves using data engineering, data science, and computational methods to turn complex data into actionable insights for policymakers.

Key responsibilities:

  • Develop ZEL’s data architecture to support policy outputs using diverse datasets.
  • Apply data engineering tools (e.g., data mining, visualisation, large language models) across the project lifecycle.
  • Create interactive dashboards (e.g., Tableau, R) for real-time policy insights.
  • Use R, SQL, Python, and other languages to manage and analyse data.
  • Apply AI and machine learning to improve data integration and analysis.

Key qualifications and experience required:

  • BSc/MSc in computer science, data science, data engineering or a related field.
  • Strong skills in Python, R, and scripting languages.
  • Experience with interactive dashboards and data transformation processes.
  • Excellent SQL/NoSQL knowledge and familiarity with databases (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB).

We offer an occupational pension scheme, generous annual leave, hybrid working, and excellent training and development opportunities.

The position is offered full-time on a fixed term contract basis ending on 30 Sept 2026 with the possibility of extension.

For further information about the post, please see the how to apply document, job description and the person specification.

If you have any technical queries with applying on the online system, please use the “contact us” links at the bottom of the LSE Jobs page. Should you have any queries about the role, please email Shahrukh Wani at [email protected].

The closing date for receipt of applications is 7 November 2024 (23.59 UK time). Regrettably, we are unable to accept any late applications.
 


IGC Zambia Research Assistant (Public Sector Reform)

The International Growth Centre (IGC) works with policymakers in developing countries to promote inclusive and sustainable growth through pioneering research. We are a global research centre with a network of world-leading researchers and in-country teams, operating across Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East. Based at LSE and in partnership with the University of Oxford, we are majority funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). Our mission is to improve the productivity of people and firms as the key driver of sustainable economic development.

IGC Zambia, one of the key country teams within IGC, is currently engaged in a Public Sector Reform Learning Partnership with the Government of Zambia. This initiative is led by lead academics including Namrata Kala, Katherine Casey, and Stefan Dercon. As part of this initiative, we are looking for a Research Assistant to support research and analysis on civil service reform, fiscal decentralisation, and governance. This role will provide vital support in stakeholder consultations, data collection, and the development of a Civil Service Reform Toolkit aimed at improving government efficiency and service delivery. The role will include a period of embedment within the Cabinet Office of Zambia, working closely with senior government officials to ensure alignment between the research findings and the government’s reform agenda.

Accountable To: Country Economist, Public Sector Reform Learning Partnership

Duties and Responsibilities

Research Support and Data Collection

  • Assist the project team in conducting stakeholder consultations, including interviews with government officials and civil servants at various levels.
  • Collect and organise both qualitative and quantitative data from stakeholder interviews, ensuring accurate and detailed documentation.
  • Review and synthesise relevant literature and case studies on public sector reforms, especially civil service reforms across different countries, to identify best practices applicable to Zambia.

Developing Research Questions and Policy Recommendations

  • Work with the project team to develop research questions that address key challenges and opportunities for civil service reform in Zambia.
  • Draft policy recommendations based on research findings, stakeholder consultations, and case studies from other countries, tailored to the specific needs and context of Zambia.
  • Support the integration of these research questions and policy recommendations into the Civil Service Reform Toolkit and other project outputs.

Stakeholder Engagement

  • Assist in building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders in Zambia’s public sector, including government departments, civil society organisations, and international development partners.
  • Support the coordination and scheduling of interviews and consultations with relevant stakeholders, ensuring active participation and timely data collection.

Embedment in Cabinet Office

  • Work closely with senior officials in the Cabinet Office during an embedment period, assisting with the identification of key areas for reform and supporting government-led initiatives.
  • Provide ongoing research support to the Cabinet Office to ensure evidence-based decision-making in line with the government’s civil service reform strategy.
  • Act as a liaison between the IGC project team and the Cabinet Office to align research findings with national reform objectives.

Toolkit Development

  • Provide research and drafting support for the development of a Civil Service Reform Toolkit, contributing insights gained from literature reviews, case studies, and stakeholder interviews.
  • Help identify potential pilot interventions for testing the toolkit’s recommendations within government ministries.

Workshops and Presentations

  • Assist in organising and facilitating workshops with government officials, stakeholders, and experts to validate research findings and discuss proposed reforms.
  • Document key insights and feedback from workshops and integrate them into the ongoing development of the reform toolkit.

Analysis and Report Writing

  • Conduct initial analysis of interview data, surveys, and workshop results, summarising key findings and trends.
  • Contribute to writing research reports, policy briefs, and presentations that effectively communicate project findings to government stakeholders and the broader public sector community.

Cross-Country Learning

  • Support cross-country learning by reviewing similar public sector reform efforts in other countries, identifying relevant lessons for the Zambian context.
  • Collaborate with other IGC teams working on public sector and governance reforms to share findings and generate new insights.

Monitoring and Reporting

  • Regularly report to the project lead on the progress of data collection and stakeholder consultations.
  • Assist with drafting project reports and updating the project team on emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities related to civil service reform.

Qualifications and Skills

Education

  • Master’s degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Economics, Development Studies, Governance, or a related field. A PhD is an advantage.

Experience

  • Previous research experience, particularly in public sector reform, governance, or development policy.
  • Experience with qualitative and/or quantitative research methods, such as conducting interviews, surveys, and data analysis.

Skills:

  • Strong analytical and research skills with the ability to synthesise complex information and present it clearly.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience writing research reports or policy briefs.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and experience with data analysis tools (e.g., STATA, NVivo, Eviews).

Personal Attributes

  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
  • Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
  • Fluency in English is required; knowledge of Zambian governance structures is an asset.

To apply, please submit your resume, a cover letter, and any relevant research samples to [email protected]. The deadline for applications is 10 November 2024.
 


IGC Country Office Administrator (Zambia Evidence Lab)

The salary is competitive depending on experience and subject to local market conditions.

The International Growth Centre (IGC) works with policymakers in developing countries to promote inclusive and sustainable growth through pathbreaking research. We are a global research centre with a network of world-leading researchers and in-country teams and initiatives working across Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East. Based at LSE and in partnership with the University of Oxford, we are majority funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). We work to improve the productivity of people and firms as the key driver of sustainable economic development.

The IGC Country Office Administrator for the Zambia Evidence Lab (ZEL) is responsible for the smooth operation of the ZEL programme with responsibility for all office administration activities such as equipment, communications, maintenance contracts, organising logistics for in-country events, and liaising with the IGC Hub in London on administrative requirements. Locally based, the ZEL Office Administrator will be based at the IGC Offices in Lusaka and will work closely with the rest of the team in Zambia.

The successful candidate will have the following essential criteria:

  • Proven ability to plan and manage complex administrative activities with competing priorities.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills with a high level of proficiency in English and the main local language.
  • Robust command of Microsoft Office suite including Word and Excel.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to establish effective working relationships with people of various backgrounds and cultures which is essential to the role.
  • Educated to university level or equivalent.
  • Experience in an international organisation                                

To apply for this post, please go to https://jobs.lse.ac.uk/. If you have any technical queries with applying on the online system, please use the “contact us” links at the bottom of the LSE Jobs page. Should you have any queries about the role, please email Jessica Clark at [email protected].

The closing date for receipt of applications is 17 November 2024 (23:59 UK time). Regrettably, we are unable to accept any late applications. Incomplete applications shall not be considered.

Please note: We anticipate a high level of interest in this position and may close the advert once a sufficient number of applications are received. Please make sure you complete and submit your application at an early stage. If you delete or withdraw your application, you cannot re-apply for this vacancy. Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview.

As the successful applicant will be based in Zambia, local statutory regulations will apply, and therefore, applicants will need to demonstrate Zambian nationality and/or right to work.
 


Senior Communications and Events Officer (London Hub)

Salary from £35,758 to £40,741 pa inclusive with potential to progress to £43,604 pa inclusive of London allowance.

The International Growth Centre (IGC) works with policymakers in developing countries to promote inclusive and sustainable growth through pathbreaking research. We are a global research centre with a network of world-leading researchers and in-country teams and initiatives working across Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East. Based at LSE and in partnership with the University of Oxford, we are majority funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). We work to improve the productivity of people and firms as the key driver of sustainable economic development.

The IGC Senior Communications and Events Officer will be essential to promoting IGC’s ideas and the use of evidence in policy decision-making at global and national levels. The position will play a key role in sharing IGC’s research and ideas with priority external audiences, working across campaigns, digital, publications and media.

The role includes:

  • Leading on external communications plans for a number of IGC campaigns.
  • Producing publications that translate research to simple and concise content for policymakers.
  • Triaging and helping to manage the website ticket backlog for the IGC website.
  • Creating content for IGC digital platforms (incl. the website, X, Facebook, LinkedIn and the IGC’s newsletters on Mailchimp).
  • Supporting the IGC’s media strategy (incl. tracking media mentions and drafting press releases).
  • Assisting in the planning and delivery of IGC online and in-person events.

Candidates should have:

  • Track record of developing and delivering integrated communications campaigns.
  • Strong experience in writing and content creation, across a variety of platforms and for diverse, global audiences.
  • Experience in providing communications and events support and delivery to a variety of audiences.
  • Previous experience working with CMS systems (preferably Drupal).
  • Excellent listening and collaborative skills, and cultural sensitivity.
  • Experience in research/policy communications in economics and/or international development.

The position will be based in the IGC Hub located within LSE, in central London and will be offered on a full time, open ended subject to funding basis.

We offer an occupational pension scheme, generous annual leave, hybrid working and excellent training and development opportunities.

For further information about the post, please see the how to apply document, job description and the person specification.

If you have any technical queries with applying on the online system, please use the “contact us” links at the bottom of the LSE Jobs page. Should you have any queries about the role, please email Annelise Andersen ([email protected]).

To find out more about the position, and the IGC, please visit www.theigc.org/about/careers.

The closing date for receipt of applications is 23:59 on 24 November 2024 (UK time). Regrettably, we are unable to accept any late applications.
 


We value diversity and wish to promote equal opportunities at all levels.