Director of Research & Learning

About the job The Director of Research & Learning leads Shamiri’s research, evidence generation, and organizational learning agenda. The role ensures that Shamiri’s 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. This transition requires a fundamental rethinking of how research and learning function—shifting from validation alone to a dual learning engine that combines high-certainty evidence generation with rapid, applied optimization. Why this role The organization requires a highly capable Research & Learning function that can: Operate 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) Lead the decomposition and zone classification of intervention components—distinguishing what is fixed (Zone A), adaptable with evidence (Zone B), and operational (Zone C) Conduct randomized and quasi-experimental evaluations that answer questions critical to government adoption and scale Generate evidence that informs delivery decisions, model simplification, cost reduction, and technology development Integrate research findings into real-time learning cycles for service delivery, tech, and clinical teams Maintain partnerships with universities, research collaborators, and scientific advisors Support Shamiri’s thought leadership through publications, policy briefs, and field-building communications A 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. Roles and responsibilities Leadership of the Research & Learning Agenda & Team Provide strategic vision and operational oversight for all research and learning activities. Manage and mentor senior research associates, learning & optimization associates, data science staff, and other research personnel. Oversee resource allocation, staffing, timelines, and workflows across the division. Create a cohesive, collaborative, and high-performing team culture oriented toward learning and impact. Dual-Engine Learning System Operationalize Shamiri’s “Learning While Scaling” framework as a core organizational system. Lead 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. Lead the Optimization Engine: establish infrastructure for rapid experimentation (A/B tests, factorial designs, implementation pilots) to improve delivery, reduce costs, and enhance implementation. Ensure both engines operate as a coordinated system with shared data infrastructure,