Research Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization that provides services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants alike. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to encompass over 173 member states and operates in more than 100 countries worldwide. The organization aims to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, focusing on the needs of migrants and the communities they are part of. IOM's mission includes addressing the challenges of migration, enhancing the understanding of migration issues, and providing support to governments in managing migration effectively. The organization is committed to upholding the rights of migrants and ensuring their safety and dignity throughout the migration process.

Job Overview:
The Research Consultant position at IOM Kenya is a critical role aimed at supporting a targeted research initiative focused on understanding the complexities of irregular migration and human trafficking in the KSE borderlands. The consultant will be responsible for conducting qualitative research that informs IOM programming and government strategies in the region. This role requires a deep understanding of migration dynamics, as well as the ability to engage with various stakeholders, including government officials and local communities. The consultant will work closely with the Data and Research Coordinator and a dedicated team to ensure that the research outputs are robust, localized, and policy-relevant. The position demands a proactive approach to data collection, analysis, and reporting, with an emphasis on producing high-quality deliverables that contribute to the broader goals of promoting safe and orderly migration while combating organized migration crime.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will have a range of responsibilities, including but not limited to: conducting qualitative data collection through long-form interviews, coordinating with Flow Monitoring enumerators, transcribing and translating interviews, and providing feedback as necessary. The consultant will also be expected to travel to various locations outside Nairobi for data collection and training purposes. Additionally, the consultant will support the analysis of qualitative data and contribute to the final report by incorporating stakeholder feedback and ensuring that the findings are contextualized appropriately. The consultant will be required to deliver a comprehensive inception report, conduct secondary data analysis, and engage actively with the IOM team and stakeholders throughout the assignment. Regular sharing of interview files and participation in workshops will also be part of the consultant's duties.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong qualitative research skills, excellent English writing and analytical abilities, and proven experience in producing policy-oriented research. The role requires excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders. The consultant should be able to operate independently, manage deadlines, and meet expectations in a high-pressure environment. Familiarity with UK migration priorities and programming is considered a strong advantage, as is the ability to work in high-risk or hard-to-reach areas. The consultant must demonstrate a commitment to IOM's values of inclusion, integrity, professionalism, courage, and empathy.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s or above) in relevant fields such as Research Methods, Public Health, Conflict and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security, Migration Studies, Political Science, Sociology, International Development, or related disciplines is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the theoretical knowledge and methodological skills necessary for conducting high-quality research in the field of migration and human trafficking.

Experience:
The position requires at least 8–10 years of research experience in the East and Horn of Africa, with a proven track record in researching human trafficking, smuggling, migration, or border governance. Candidates should have long-term experience working in Kenya, Somalia, or Ethiopia, and must demonstrate the ability to operate independently in challenging environments. This level of experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of migration dynamics in the region and for effectively engaging with various stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English (both written and spoken) is mandatory for this position, as the consultant will be required to produce high-quality written reports and engage in discussions with stakeholders. Proficiency in Swahili is highly desirable, as it will facilitate communication with local communities and enhance the quality of data collection during interviews.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is subject to funding confirmation and will require the candidate to be medically fit for appointment. IOM provides coverage against occupational accidents and illnesses under the Compensation Plan for the duration of the consultancy. However, consultants are responsible for their own medical insurance for non-occupational accidents or illnesses. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that is incompatible with its aims and objectives, including discrimination and harassment. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through its online recruitment system.