Research Analyst I/II

Job Posting Organization:
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is a renowned research organization dedicated to providing evidence-based solutions to reduce poverty and end hunger and malnutrition. Established in 1975, IFPRI operates in over 40 countries and employs a diverse team of experts in various fields related to food policy and agricultural development. The organization collaborates with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to influence policy decisions and improve food systems globally. IFPRI's mission is to provide research-based policy solutions that promote sustainable security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and improve the livelihoods of the poor, particularly in developing countries.

Job Overview:
The Research Analyst I/II positions within the Development Strategies and Governance Unit (DSG) at IFPRI are critical roles aimed at supporting the establishment of a Gender Responsive Cell (GRC) in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment (DAFE) in Odisha, India. The GRC is designed to institutionalize gender equity in agricultural planning and delivery by integrating comprehensive data analysis, research, and capacity-building initiatives. The selected candidates will be responsible for conducting in-depth policy and data analyses through a gender lens, supporting the design and implementation of gender-responsive interventions, and developing robust databases and reporting systems. This role requires close collaboration with DAFE officials and a commitment to embedding gender responsiveness into agricultural policies and programs. The Research Analysts will also facilitate capacity-building activities and engage in policy dissemination efforts, making this position pivotal in advancing gender equity in agriculture in Odisha.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Research Analyst I/II include conducting comprehensive policy and program landscape analyses to evaluate gender inclusivity in agricultural schemes and budgets. The analysts will support the development and application of the Women’s Empowerment in Agriculture Index (WEAI) and assist in creating quantitative and qualitative research tools for data collection. They will contribute to the design and piloting of a Gender-disaggregated Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) framework, ensuring alignment with Odisha’s Vision 2036/204

• Responsibilities also include data cleaning, management, and statistical analysis using software such as Stata, R, or Python, as well as preparing analytical briefs and visual dashboards to summarize findings. The analysts will collect and maintain gender-disaggregated data from various sources, support the design of a digital dashboard for monitoring GRC indicators, and assist in organizing training programs for DAFE staff on gender-disaggregated data collection and WEAI tools. Additionally, they will liaise with multiple directorates and partner organizations to ensure effective data flow and coordination, provide operational support for policy consultations and workshops, and contribute to the documentation of case studies and lessons learned from the GRC initiative.

Required Qualifications:
For the Research Analyst I position, candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics, Development Studies, Gender Studies, Public Policy, or a closely related field, along with at least two years of professional experience, or a Master’s degree in a relevant field. For the Research Analyst II position, a Master’s degree in one of the aforementioned fields is required, along with a minimum of three years of relevant post-master’s experience. Candidates should have a minimum of 1-3 years of experience in research, monitoring and evaluation, policy analysis, or gender and development work. Proficiency in statistical software such as Stata, R, or SPSS, as well as MS Office tools, is essential. Strong analytical and writing skills are required, with the ability to synthesize complex data into clear insights. Knowledge of standard econometric tools and demonstrated strong writing skills are also necessary.

Educational Background:
Candidates applying for the Research Analyst I position should have a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Agricultural Economics, Development Studies, Gender Studies, or Public Policy. Those applying for the Research Analyst II position must hold a Master’s degree in one of these fields. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in research methodologies, data analysis, and policy evaluation, equipping candidates with the necessary skills to perform effectively in this role.

Experience:
The level of experience required for the Research Analyst I position is at least two years of professional experience in relevant fields, or a Master’s degree with no prior experience. For the Research Analyst II position, a minimum of three years of post-master’s relevant experience is required. Candidates should have experience in research, monitoring and evaluation, policy analysis, or gender and development work, with a strong emphasis on working with large quantitative data sets and conducting statistical analyses.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for both positions, along with proficiency in Hindi and Odia. The ability to communicate effectively in these languages is crucial for engaging with stakeholders and disseminating research findings. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The positions are full-time, one-year renewable appointments based in Bhubaneswar, India. Interested applicants must have work authorization to work in India. The roles involve significant analytical and research responsibilities, and candidates should be prepared for a work environment that may require long periods of sitting and close visual acuity for data analysis and report preparation. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from individuals with varied backgrounds.