Principal Artificial Intelligence Officer

Job Description

Requirements

• A PhD in Computer Science, Information Technology, Information Systems, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related field from a recognized institution.
• At least six (6) years of progressively responsible experience in Information Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Digital Transformation, Software Development, Research Informatics or related fields. Three of which should have been served at Senior Officer level or equivalent in a reputable institution.
• Demonstrated experience leading design, development, deployment and management of enterprise information systems and AI-enabled solutions.
• Demonstrated experience in machine learning model development, deployment, monitoring, and evaluation.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrated experience in machine learning model development, deployment, monitoring, and evaluation.
• Spearheading research and development of AI, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Generative AI, Computer Vision, Natural Language Processing, Predictive Analytics, and Decision Support Systems.
• Designing and overseeing development of AI-powered solutions for crop, livestock, fisheries, forestry, climate, soil and agribusiness applications.
• Coordinating AI research projects, innovation programmes, pilots and proof-of-concept initiatives.
• Publishing scientific research findings and contribute to intellectual property generation, patents and technology commercialization.
• Promote the integration of AI technologies into NARO research programs and technology development initiatives.
• Lead the development of enterprise data science, predictive modelling, forecasting, and analytics capabilities.
• Establish institutional frameworks for agricultural big data management, integration, quality assurance and utilization.
• Develop AI models for disease surveillance, outbreak prediction, climate risk analysis, yield forecasting, resource optimization and agricultural decision support.
• Oversee development of enterprise dashboards, business intelligence systems and executive decision-support platforms.
• Support the establish of strategic partnerships with universities, research institutions, development partners, government agencies and private sector organizations.
• Mobilize resources for AI research, innovation and infrastructure development.
• Develop concept notes, project proposals, grant applications, and partnership agreements related to AI and digital innovation.
• Lead AI capacity-building programmes for researchers, scientists, ICT personnel, and stakeholders.
• Offer mentorship and support supervision to data scientists, software developers and research teams within NARO.
• Promote institutional awareness and adoption of AI technologies across NARO.
• Develop knowledge-sharing platforms, communities of practice, and AI innovation ecosystems within NARO
• Establish performance indicators for AI initiatives and programmes.
• Monitor the implementation and impact of AI solutions across NARO.
• Prepare technical, management and policy reports on AI initiatives and investments.
• Document lessons learnt, best practices, and institutional AI achievements.