The Gates Foundation is accepting applications for its 2027 AI Fellows Program, a 12-month employment opportunity focused on using artificial intelligence to address challenges in health, development and education across Africa.
The first Africa-based cohort will work with the foundation's regional teams, partners and government counterparts. Fellows will take responsibility for one or two priority projects and may contribute to several AI initiatives during the fellowship.
Locations and employment conditions
The positions are based in Abuja, Nigeria; Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; Johannesburg, South Africa; or Nairobi, Kenya.
This is a limited-term employment role, not a relocation-sponsored scholarship. Applicants must already have the legal right to work in the country where the position is based. Visa sponsorship and relocation support will not be provided.
Projects and responsibilities
Fellows will help build and test AI tools that support practical decisions. Possible assignments include tools to analyse public financing flows, identify bottlenecks in health systems, reduce shortages of essential medicines and forecast stock-out risks within supply chains.
The work may involve collaboration across the foundation's Global Health, Gender Equality, Global Development and Global Growth & Opportunity teams.
Qualifications and experience
- A bachelor's or master's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Applied Mathematics or a related field.
- At least two years of experience applying AI solutions, preferably in health or agricultural systems.
- Practical knowledge of modern AI and machine learning, including model evaluation, large language models and the software and data skills needed to build complete solutions.
- Interest in applying AI to health systems, public finance, logistics or related development problems.
- Strong collaboration, adaptability and communication skills.
- Experience developing prototypes with modern AI tools and a willingness to share knowledge with colleagues.
- Commitment to responsible AI use and public benefit.
Relevant experience may come from professional roles, research, internships or applied academic work.
Professional development and application
The programme offers exposure to senior leaders, project ownership, mentorship and opportunities to work with partners across government, non-profit organisations, academia and industry.
Interested candidates can review the position and application instructions on the Gates Foundation AI Fellow vacancy page.
The stated application deadline is 11 November 2027.
