Founder, Lead Researcher
Charles Ekanem is a passionate Embedded Systems and AI researcher from Southern Nigeria, founder of ANT R&D. He leads initiatives to create datasets, design smart systems and engineer solutions grounded in real-world African contexts. His mission is to innovate from the ground up.
Data Scientist/Engineer
Responsible for collecting, processing and analyzing structured/unstructured data (e.g., audio, images, sensor data) to power AI models and design decisions.
Machine Learning Engineer
Responsible for designing, training, and optimizing AI/ML models tailored to African contexts. Also handles deployment and performance monitoring.
Technical Writer
Crafts detailed documentation, research summaries, licensing guides, blog explainers and public communications.
UI/UX Designer
Develops intuitive interfaces for datasets, tools, and research visualizations; ensures accessibility and responsive design.
Robotics and Hardware Engineer
Designs and builds embedded control systems and robot mechanisms using microcontrollers, sensors and actuators.
Technical Product Manager
Leads planning, coordination and strategic direction of technical projects to align with real-world needs and user feedback.
Product Field Tester
Tests prototypes (hardware, AI models, mobile apps) in field conditions to ensure robustness and usability.
Ethical and Localization Officer
Ensures all research, data collection and product deployments meet ethical, cultural and accessibility standards for Nigerian and broader African communities.
Community Engagement Officer
Leads outreach programs, manages consent workflows, ensures ethical community involvement and fosters partnerships.