Consultancy for Survey Firm Implementer to Collect Quantitative and Qualitative Data on Digital Agricultural Advisory Services

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 around 300 staff members, including researchers, policy analysts, and support staff. The organization collaborates with various partners, including governments, NGOs, and private sector entities, to conduct research and implement projects aimed at improving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and agricultural productivity.

Job Overview:
The position involves a consultancy role for a survey firm, research center, or university department tasked with implementing a comprehensive survey and data collection activities in Lumbini Province, Nepal. The consultancy is part of an impact evaluation study led by IFPRI in collaboration with UK FCDO, GSMA, and 3ie, focusing on digital agricultural advisory services provided by GeoKrishi. The selected firm will be responsible for conducting face-to-face, computer-assisted interviews with approximately 1,400 to 1,800 individuals/households, as well as qualitative interviews with key stakeholders in the agricultural sector. The data collected will be crucial for evaluating the effectiveness and sustainability of the digital agricultural services offered by GeoKrishi, and the firm will work closely with IFPRI to ensure the survey design and implementation meet the study's objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the selected survey implementer include translating survey instruments and interview guides into local languages, obtaining necessary ethics clearances and research permits, mobilizing and training experienced survey enumerators, organizing focus group discussions, and ensuring the smooth operation of data collection activities. The firm will also be responsible for developing a field implementation manual, conducting data cleaning and quality checks, and delivering cleaned datasets in Stata format. Additionally, the firm will facilitate key informant interviews and focus group discussions, record and transcribe discussions, and provide a final report summarizing the findings and any challenges encountered during the data collection process.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate experience in conducting quantitative and qualitative survey fieldwork in Lumbini/Terai, Nepal, within the past five years. Experience with impact evaluation studies and surveys is preferred. Applicants should have a strong understanding of the local context and languages, as well as experience in building trust with community leaders and interviewees. Strong program management skills and the ability to coordinate large field teams are essential. Proficiency in using computer-assisted personal interviewing (CAPI) and statistical software packages is required, along with experience in obtaining local ethics review and permits.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background in social sciences, agricultural economics, or a related field is preferred. Candidates should possess a strong understanding of research methodologies and data collection techniques, particularly in the context of agricultural studies and impact evaluations.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a proven track record of conducting surveys and fieldwork in the agricultural sector, with specific experience in Lumbini/Terai, Nepal. Experience in managing survey teams and coordinating field operations is essential, as well as familiarity with the local agricultural landscape and community dynamics.

Languages:
Fluency in Nepali and English is mandatory, with additional local dialects being advantageous. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including farmers, community leaders, and local organizations.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this consultancy is from December 1, 2025, to May 31, 202

• The selected firm will be expected to provide a detailed proposal outlining their approach, human resources, timing, and costs associated with the project. This requisition is open only to firms, research centers, or universities, and interested organizations must submit a cost proposal with their application. Selected applicants will be contacted for further discussions.