Senior Researcher

Job Posting Organization:
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization that was established in 197

• The organization is known for its in-depth investigations, incisive and timely reporting, and innovative advocacy campaigns. HRW operates in over 90 countries and employs a diverse workforce of more than 400 staff members. The organization is dedicated to protecting human rights and promoting justice globally, with a focus on holding governments accountable for their actions and advocating for the rights of marginalized communities.

Job Overview:
The Senior Researcher position at Human Rights Watch is a critical role within the Americas Division, specifically focusing on improving human rights conditions in Mexico. The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting thorough research and documentation of human rights abuses, utilizing a variety of sources including government reports, media, and firsthand accounts from victims and witnesses. This role requires a high level of flexibility and responsiveness to emerging crises, as well as the ability to produce high-quality written materials under tight deadlines. The Senior Researcher will work closely with local NGOs and human rights organizations to ensure that HRW's efforts complement existing initiatives. The position demands strong communication skills in both Spanish and English, as well as a commitment to international human rights advocacy. The ideal candidate will be highly organized, motivated, and capable of working both independently and collaboratively within a team.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Researcher will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: researching, monitoring, and documenting human rights abuses by collecting and analyzing information from various sources; writing and publicizing reports, briefing papers, and news releases based on research findings; assisting in the development of strategies to change abusive laws and practices; responding to media inquiries and proactively engaging in public debate; contextualizing human rights abuses within broader political and social frameworks; collaborating with NGOs and local organizations to enhance HRW's impact; coordinating with HRW staff globally; being available for flexible working hours to address urgent issues; delivering timely outputs aligned with the program's priorities; advancing innovative research and advocacy projects; and supporting crisis response efforts in Latin America.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong ability to identify, research, analyze, and communicate significant human rights developments in Mexico. They should demonstrate sensitivity in conducting interviews with diverse individuals, including victims and witnesses, and have a keen awareness of the needs of various cultural backgrounds. The ability to distill complex information into actionable insights is essential, as is the capacity to advise on effective research and advocacy strategies. Familiarity with international human rights law and experience in the field are critical, along with excellent oral and written communication skills in both Spanish and English. Strong initiative, creativity, and public speaking abilities are also required, as well as the interpersonal skills necessary for collaboration within HRW and with external partners.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in international relations, journalism, law, social sciences, or a related field is required for this position. A Master’s degree is preferred, as it demonstrates a higher level of expertise and understanding of the complexities involved in human rights research and advocacy.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in human rights research. This experience should include a proven track record of conducting thorough investigations, producing high-quality written materials, and engaging with various stakeholders in the human rights community.

Languages:
Fluency in both Spanish and English is mandatory for this role, as the Senior Researcher will be required to communicate effectively in both languages. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position based in Mexico City, with the possibility of remote work. The salary range for this position is between USD 72,000 and 79,000, and HRW offers competitive compensation along with employer-paid benefits. The organization encourages applications from individuals of all nationalities, with a particular emphasis on candidates currently residing in Mexico. Occasional travel may be necessary for research, team gatherings, and conferences. HRW is committed to diversity and inclusion, actively seeking a diverse applicant pool and ensuring equal opportunity for all candidates.