National Research Coordinator – Solomon Islands- Individual Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, is the lead UN agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established to address global population issues, UNFPA operates in numerous countries worldwide, working towards transformative results in maternal health, family planning, and gender equality. The organization emphasizes the importance of ethical standards and human rights in its operations, striving to create a diverse workforce that reflects the communities it serves.

Job Overview:
The National Research Coordinator will play a pivotal role in supporting the Solomon Islands Government's commitment to enhancing the well-being of women and girls through data-driven research. This position involves close collaboration with national partners, including the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs (MWYCFA) and the Solomon Islands National Statistics Office (SINSO). The coordinator will oversee the management, monitoring, and reporting of a national study focused on women's well-being, ensuring that all activities align with both national and global ethical standards. The role requires a proactive approach to facilitate effective communication among stakeholders and to ensure that the research findings contribute to meaningful programming for gender equality.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Research Coordinator will be responsible for the following duties:

• Coordinate the day-to-day management of the national study on women's well-being, ensuring adherence to timelines and quality standards.
• Collaborate with MWYCFA, SINSO, and other stakeholders to design and implement research methodologies that are culturally sensitive and ethically sound.
• Monitor the progress of the research activities, providing regular updates and reports to UNFPA and relevant partners.
• Facilitate workshops and meetings to engage stakeholders and disseminate research findings.
• Ensure that all data collection and analysis processes comply with ethical guidelines and respect the rights of participants.
• Support capacity-building initiatives for local partners involved in the research process.
• Contribute to the development of strategic interventions based on research outcomes to promote gender equality.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong analytical and organizational skills, with a proven ability to manage complex projects. Experience in research coordination, particularly in the field of gender studies or women's health, is essential. The ideal candidate should demonstrate a commitment to ethical research practices and possess excellent communication skills to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders. Familiarity with the Solomon Islands context and issues related to women's well-being will be an advantage.

Educational Background:
A minimum of a Master's degree in social sciences, public health, gender studies, or a related field is required. Candidates with a PhD in a relevant discipline will be given preference. Additional training or certifications in research methodologies and ethical standards in research will be beneficial.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of professional experience in research coordination or project management, preferably in the field of gender equality or women's health. Experience working with governmental and non-governmental organizations in the Pacific region is highly desirable. Proven track record of managing research projects from inception to completion is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of local languages spoken in the Solomon Islands will be considered an asset, as it may facilitate better communication with local stakeholders and participants.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is for a duration of 11 months and is based in Honiara, Solomon Islands. The role is classified as an individual consultant position, and candidates are expected to work full-time. UNFPA is committed to diversity and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those from minority and indigenous groups. The organization emphasizes a zero-tolerance policy towards harassment and discrimination, ensuring a safe and respectful work environment for all employees.