Data Associate

Position Summary

Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA) Peru is seeking a Data Associate to support a research project that utilizes satellite imagery to identify, analyze, and interpretate ground patterns, such as fires, floods, and land cover changes. The Data Associate will play a critical role in assisting the Principal Investigator to conduct statistical analyses, produce summary statistics, and develop predictive models that help inform policy decisions and improve global responses to environmental and land use challenges. The ideal candidate will be proficient in managing spatial data, working with statistical software, and have the opportunity to apply cutting-edge techniques in machine learning and remote sensing to enhance research outcomes.

Responsibilities

40%

Analyze satellite imagery to detect ground patterns (fires, floods, land cover changes) and manage spatial data using Python or R.

20%

Conduct statistical analyses, produce summary statistics, and develop predictive models based on satellite image data.

15%

Collaborate with research teams to integrate findings into project designs and ensure results align with research goals.

10%

Maintain data pipelines, document processes, and stay updated on remote sensing and spatial analysis advancements.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in data science, social science, computer science, or a related field.

• Proficiency in managing and analyzing spatial data using Python or R.

• Strong statistical analysis skills, including the ability to create summary statistics and develop predictive models.

• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred

• Experience with ArcGIS Pro or other geographic information systems (GIS) software.

• Knowledge of remote sensing technologies and techniques for processing satellite imagery.

• Familiarity with machine learning algorithms and their application to spatial or environmental data.

• Prior experience working with research teams or in an academic setting.

Reports to

Research and Operations Manager

Deadline to Apply

October 15th

Location

Lima, Peru

About IPA 

Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA) is a research and policy nonprofit that discovers and promotes effective solutions to global poverty problems. IPA brings together researchers and decision-makers to design, rigorously evaluate, and refine these solutions and their applications, ensuring that the evidence created is used to improve the lives of the world’s poor. In recent decades, trillions of dollars have been spent on programs designed to reduce global poverty, but clear evidence of which programs succeed is rare, and when evidence does exist, decision-makers often do not know about it. IPA exists to bring together leading researchers and these decision-makers to ensure that the evidence we create leads to a tangible impact on the world. Since its founding in 2002, IPA has worked with over 600 leading academics to conduct over 900 evaluations in 52 countries. This research has informed hundreds of successful programs that now impact millions of individuals worldwide. 

Safeguarding at IPA

At Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA), we are committed to creating a safe and respectful environment for all individuals,  particularly children and vulnerable adults. As IPA adheres to strict safeguarding principles, selected candidates will be expected to adhere to these standards. By joining IPA, you become part of a team dedicated to ethical conduct, social responsibility, and meaningful impact in the fight against global poverty. Together, we work to create a better world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive with dignity and respect.

IPA's Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI) 

As an organization, IPA is dedicated to improving the lives of the world's most vulnerable populations through evidence and policy. We also recognize how important it is for our staff to reflect the diversity of the places where we work and the communities we work with. As such, IPA is committed to hiring from a diverse pool of candidates, from a range of backgrounds, beliefs, experiences, and perspectives. We know that this makes our work stronger and more responsive to the challenges faced by those we work with and for and we encourage people from historically underrepresented groups to apply. Click here to learn more about IPA’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Innovations for Poverty Action is an affirmative action-equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other protected class. IPA will endeavor to make a reasonable accommodation to a qualified applicant with a disability unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of our business. If you believe you require such assistance to complete this form or to participate in an interview, please contact us at jobs@poverty-action.org or via phone at 1-202-386-6200. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work to be performed by the specified position. The statements are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all possible duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Management reserves the right to amend and change responsibilities to meet organizational needs as necessary. Please note that IPA will never request any form of payment from an applicant. Applicants are encouraged to confirm the information listed above with IPA prior to releasing any extensive personal information to the organization. Please direct questions to jobs@poverty-action.org. Please note that only qualified applicants will be contacted by the hiring manager