About Organisation
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) supports global development efforts through the Innovation, Technology and Research Hub (ITR). The Long-term Assistance and SErvices for Research, Partners for University-Led Solutions Engine (LASER PULSE) is a key partner in this initiative, housed within the Purdue Applied Research Institute. The organization aims to promote sustainable development by fostering research that addresses significant global challenges, particularly in the areas of technology, labor, and social issues across the Global South.
About the Grant
USAID’s Call for Proposals focuses on the invisible and undervalued workforce supporting artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in the Global South. The grant seeks to fund research that explores the size, demographics, geography, and working conditions of workers engaged in data enrichment, content moderation, and other AI-related labor. This emerging workforce is crucial to AI development but remains largely unstudied. The research outcomes will inform policy, advocacy, and programming designed to improve conditions for these workers, ultimately contributing to a better understanding of their role in the AI economy and global value chains.
Who can Apply?
This grant is open to research teams with expertise in labor markets, AI, data enrichment, and related fields. Proposals from multidisciplinary teams are strongly encouraged, particularly those that include sociotechnical, ethnographic, and economic analyses. The research team should have experience working in the Global South, with an emphasis on engagement with local communities. Teams may consist of professionals and academics, including researchers from social sciences, computer science, and economics. While a PhD is not required, applicants must have strong professional expertise and experience.
How to Apply?
To apply, submit a proposal that clearly addresses the research objectives and demonstrates the team’s capacity to conduct the study. Ensure that your application aligns with the criteria outlined in the Call for Proposals. Follow the instructions provided by LASER PULSE to submit the necessary documents.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is January 31, 2025, at 5:00 pm Eastern Time.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
