Senior Research Officer

Background

Founded in 2014, the Humanitarian Exchange and Research Centre (HERE-Geneva) is an independent organisation that examines the gaps between policy and humanitarian practice. Our team of experienced researchers and analysts are dedicated to building evidence and putting forward constructive analyses of where the gaps are, and where gains can be made for governments and agencies to fulfil their humanitarian responsibilities and commitments. We have built a track record in working with partners such as donor governments, UN agencies, Red Cross and Red Crescent organisations, NGOs, and foundations.

Objective

Under the supervision of HERE’s Research Director, who is the line manager, the senior research officer plays a key role in delivering HERE’s high-quality research, policy advice and engagement with a view to informing and inspiring humanitarian policy and practice. The senior research officer works across a number of HERE projects, undertaking research and analysis, ensuring that HERE’s research meets relevant technical standards and criteria, and that findings and recommendations are well-communicated and shared with HERE’s stakeholders and partners.

This position is based in Geneva, Switzerland.

Responsibilities and Tasks

1/ Leadership:

• Provide direction and input to HERE’s research projects, including developing written proposals and work plans; developing and implementing quantitative and qualitative research methods; and carrying out data collection and analysis.
• Identify research topics and contribute to developing HERE’s research agenda.
• Ensure HERE develops analysis on research outcomes and propose steps for follow-up.

2/ Research:

• Implement research projects and play role as deputy team leader for reviews where relevant.
• Conduct literature reviews.
• Develop and manage data collection tools and analysis, including applying data analysis software.
• Provide top-quality writing in English of research findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
• Present research outcomes or updates to the HERE Board of Trustees and partners where appropriate.
• Monitor research progress and follow-up.

3/ Other duties:

• Represent HERE where relevant.
• Propose ideas for publication and dissemination of HERE’s research.
• Contribute to learning within HERE.
• Contribute to HERE’s daily functioning and inspire teamwork.

Qualifications

• Established reputation in humanitarian policy and practice at a system-level.
• Post-graduate degree in a relevant discipline.
• Extensive experience in and deep knowledge of key humanitarian issues and organisations.
• Extensive experience in and deep knowledge of issues related to forced displacement, including on protection and forced displacement policies. Knowledge and experience of the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR) and the Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework (CRRF) as well as experience in working with African development actors and private sector entities are an asset. Experience in overseeing monitoring and evaluation of forced displacement responses is desirable.
• Extensive experience in policy-oriented research and/or direct policy formulation at a senior level, demonstrated by a track record of influential publications and/or delivery of major policy initiatives.
• Excellent research and analytical skills. Experience of designing complex research projects, including applying different research methodologies through mixed methods software is an asset.
• Capacity to write clearly and persuasively, and top-class verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to translate research and policy ideas into compelling and fundable projects and initiatives.
• Proven organisational and time management skills, including managing a complex and varied workload.
• Fluency in English, and preferably a good command of at least one other language key to humanitarian affairs (e.g. French, Arabic, Spanish).