Location: WASCAL Competence Centre in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
Duration of contract: 2-years fixed term renewable contract.
Overview:
WASCAL is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Assistant to join our team in the cutting-edge field of Data Instrumentation and Internet of Things (IoT). This is a local position and shall be based at the WASCAL Competence Centre in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
WASCAL is a research and education-focused institute designed to provide knowledge and climate services that should help tackle the climate change challenge and thereby enhance the resilience of human and environmental systems. It does so by strengthening the research capacity and infrastructure in West Africa related to climate change by pooling the expertise of ten West African countries and Germany. The West African countries include: Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d‘Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Togo and Cape Verde.
The position of Research Assistant on Data Instrumentation and Internet of Things involves both theoretical and practical work in developing, deploying, and evaluating IoT technologies and systems. This role is ideal for someone passionate about technology and innovation, to drive innovative IoT-driven solutions for environmental monitoring and smart devices. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in designing, developing, and managing IoT devices and applications, particularly in areas such as climate observation, smart agriculture, renewable energy, and hydrology/water resources management.
Reporting to the Head of the Data Management Department (DMD), he or she is also expected to contribute to WASCAL research and innovation programs (e.g WRAP2), projects, and activities.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and develop IoT-driven solutions, including weather stations, soil analysis stations, energy measurement/monitoring sensors, hydrology, and water-saving devices.
- Combine skills in electronics, informatics (including programming and AI), and mechanics to create innovative solutions.
- Contribute to set up and manage an AIoT FabLab, equipped for PCB printing, 3D printing, electronic soldering, and IoT device prototyping and testing.
- Collect, process, and analyze data from a variety of sources, including IoT sensors and devices.
- Conduct research and development activities in the field of IoT and data instrumentation.
- Work closely with other team members, including engineers, data scientists, and project managers, to achieve project goals.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate IoT solutions into broader systems.
- Document and report on research findings and technological developments.
- Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in IoT and related technologies.
Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in Computer Science, Electronics, Information Technology, Electrical
Engineering, or a related field.
- Proven experience in IoT device development and familiarity with IoT platforms.
- Strong skills in programming languages relevant to IoT and AI (e.g., Python, C/C++, Java).
- Knowledge of PCB design, 3D printing, and electronic soldering.
- Experience with AI and machine learning is highly desirable.
- Ability to develop and deliver interactive training courses on IoT
- Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
- Strong communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative environment.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with machine learning and AI technologies.
- Knowledge of wireless communication protocols (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, LoraWAN).
- Familiarity with IoT cloud computing platforms (e.g., ThingSpeak, Google Cloud IoT Core, Datadog, ThingsBoard, etc).
- Previous research experience in a related field.
- Proficiency in English and French, both written and spoken.
Opportunities:
- A dynamic and innovative work environment at the forefront of cutting-edge IoT and AI research.
- Access to state-of-the-art technology and equipment in our AIoT FabLab.
- Collaboration with a diverse, international team of experts in various technological domains.
Application procedure:
- Interested candidates should submit the following:
- A detailed CV outlining relevant experience and qualifications.
- A cover letter explaining your interest in the position and how your skills and experience align with the role.
- Portfolio or examples of previous projects or research in IoT, electronics, or related fields (a link to photos, videos will be appreciated).
Please submit your application to candidature@wascal.org and indicate the job title in the subject line.
Applications will be accepted up to 25th May, 2024 Applications will be acknowledged, but only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews in English.
Please visit www.wascal.org for further information.
WASCAL is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate Gender and Diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.