IFPRI Hiring Associate Research Fellow: AI & Digital Innovation in Food Systems. The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is recruiting an Associate Research Fellow for a two-year renewable role in Washington, DC. The position focuses on AI, digital innovation, geospatial analytics, and ethical technology deployment in global food, land, and water systems. Learn about eligibility, responsibilities, benefits, and how to apply.
Overview
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), a global leader in agricultural and development research, has announced a competitive opening for an Associate Research Fellow within the Natural Resources and Resilience Unit of its Transformation Strategies Department.
This strategic 2-year (renewable) position is based in Washington, DC, and offers professionals an opportunity to work on cutting-edge research involving artificial intelligence, digital agriculture, climate resilience, geospatial analytics, and data-driven innovation. The Fellow will contribute significantly to IFPRI’s flagship projects, including Generative AI for Agriculture, Statistics from Space, and the Digital & Data Innovation Accelerator.
The position is ideal for candidates passionate about responsible AI, development-focused innovation, and multidisciplinary research in food systems.
Role and Key Responsibilities
1. AI and Digital Innovation Research
- Lead research on ethical and responsible use of AI within agrifood systems.
- Develop AI-powered tools that enhance productivity, climate resilience, and sustainability in low- and middle-income countries.
- Integrate advanced digital technologies into agricultural and environmental research.
2. Data Science and Geospatial Analysis
- Prepare, manage, and analyze large multidimensional datasets.
- Use satellite remote sensing, geospatial models, and data assimilation methods.
- Support advanced analytics across food, land, and water system studies.
3. Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement
- Work closely with interdisciplinary research teams, external partners, and local stakeholders.
- Ensure that digital solutions are inclusive, participatory, and community-centered.
4. Research Communication & Publication
- Publish peer-reviewed papers.
- Present at global conferences, workshops, and technical meetings.
- Translate scientific insights for policymakers and international audiences.
5. Project Coordination
- Assist in project management, reporting, and planning.
- Supervise research staff, interns, subcontractors, and collaborators as required.
Eligibility Criteria
Required Qualifications
- PhD in Agricultural Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, Geography, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.
- Strong background in data science, statistics, programming, and AI.
- Proven research experience in AI-powered analytics and digital innovation.
- Experience with geospatial data and satellite imagery.
- Demonstrated ability to work in multicultural research environments.
- Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
- Excellent written and spoken English.
- Commitment to ethical, fair, and inclusive use of AI in LMICs.
- Willingness to travel for international fieldwork and collaboration.
Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge of another UN language.
- Advanced programming skills (Python, Java).
- Experience with cloud computing platforms.
Benefits
Working at IFPRI provides unique advantages:
- Competitive international salary and benefits package.
- Hybrid work model (two days in office, three remote).
- Opportunity to influence global research on food security, climate, and AI.
- Access to international collaborations and partnerships across CGIAR networks.
- Supportive, multicultural, research-driven environment.
- Professional growth through conferences, global field missions, and interdisciplinary projects.
How to Apply
- Visit the IFPRI Careers Portal.
- Search for the role titled Associate Research Fellow – Natural Resources and Resilience Unit.
- Prepare the following documents:
- Updated CV
- Cover letter detailing your motivation and research expertise
- List of publications
- Submit your application before the deadline stated in the job posting.
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for technical assessments and interviews.
Note:
For US-based hires, IFPRI requires COVID-19 vaccination, with accommodations available for medical or religious exemptions.
Summary Table | IFPRI Hiring Associate Research Fellow: AI & Digital Innovation in Food Systems
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Associate Research Fellow |
| Organization | International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) |
| Department | Natural Resources & Resilience Unit |
| Location | Washington, DC |
| Contract | 2-year renewable |
| Focus Areas | AI, Digital Agriculture, Geospatial Analytics, Climate Resilience |
| Required Education | PhD in relevant field |
| Experience Required | AI research, data science, geospatial data, publications |
| Work Model | Hybrid |
| Travel | Extensive (international) |
| Application | Via IFPRI careers portal |
Conclusion
This IFPRI Associate Research Fellow position is a high-impact opportunity for emerging and established researchers passionate about AI, sustainability, and food system innovation. With its focus on responsible technology, global partnership, and interdisciplinary work, the role offers a meaningful platform to shape the future of agrifood systems worldwide.
