Consultancy for an Individual/Organization/Firm to Provide Research Support

Job Posting Organization:
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is a global research institution established in 1975, dedicated to providing evidence-based solutions to reduce poverty and end hunger and malnutrition. IFPRI operates in over 40 countries and employs a diverse team of researchers and professionals committed to improving food systems and livelihoods. The organization focuses on agricultural research and policy analysis, working collaboratively with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and the private sector, to promote sustainable development and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security.

Job Overview:
The consultancy position within the Agri-food Innovation and Resilience (AIR) Unit at IFPRI is aimed at providing research support for the CGIAR Multifunctional Landscapes (MFL) Program. The consultant will be involved in various activities, including impact evaluation, value chain analysis, and assessment of self-help groups in India. The role requires fieldwork across different project locations in India, specifically in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, to gather data, conduct analyses, and generate reports that contribute to the program's objectives of promoting sustainable and resilient agricultural practices. The consultant will work closely with local stakeholders, including grassroots partners and government officials, to ensure that the research is relevant and impactful.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key activities: 1) Conducting impact evaluations of interventions under the MFL science program, which includes developing and rolling out surveys, training enumerators, and ensuring data quality during collection. 2) Performing value chain analysis of key crops in Jhansi, identifying major stakeholders, mapping the full value chain, and assessing interlinkages with agroecology. 3) Assessing the presence and scope of self-help groups in Jhansi, conducting field-based research, and engaging with local stakeholders to understand the challenges and opportunities for women's collective action. Deliverables include detailed technical reports for each activity, summarizing findings, challenges, and recommendations for future actions.

Required Qualifications:
For individuals, a Master’s degree or PhD in economics, development studies, data science, rural management, or a closely related field is required, along with a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in field-based research or community engagement. Candidates must demonstrate strong qualitative research skills, data analysis capabilities, and effective communication skills. For firms or organizations, all key personnel must also possess advanced degrees and relevant experience. Preferred qualifications include experience with monitoring and evaluation, knowledge of statistical software, and strong Hindi language skills.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant field such as economics, development studies, data science, or rural management. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of agricultural systems and conducting rigorous research.

Experience:
A minimum of 2 years of demonstrated experience in field-based research, program implementation, or community engagement is required. This experience should include working with rural communities, understanding agricultural practices, and engaging with various stakeholders in the development sector.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English and Hindi is mandatory. Strong Hindi language skills are preferred, particularly the ability to understand local dialects and expressions relevant to rural contexts.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy contract will last a maximum of 5 months, with a cumulative level of effort totaling 10 months. The contract is contingent upon funding availability and satisfactory performance. The consultant is expected to travel regularly within Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, and may need to visit the IFPRI-New Delhi office for collaboration. The application process requires submission of a CV, relevant reports or writing samples, and a cover letter detailing experience. For firms, a technical and financial proposal is required.