Senior Research Analyst I

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 research. The organization focuses on improving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and nutrition through innovative research and policy analysis, engaging with stakeholders at all levels to implement effective strategies for sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Senior Research Analyst I position at IFPRI-Nigeria is a critical role within the Development Strategies and Governance Unit (DSG). This one-year, renewable appointment is designed for a qualified candidate who will contribute significantly to the research activities related to agricultural value chains, policy research, and post-harvest food-loss management. The role involves a combination of fieldwork, analytical tasks, writing, and stakeholder engagement, requiring a proactive approach to research and collaboration with local partners. The successful candidate will be expected to manage and support technical components of various projects, ensuring effective coordination and communication with project partners and stakeholders. Additionally, the analyst will play a key role in designing research methodologies, conducting fieldwork, and analyzing data to produce high-quality research outputs that inform policy decisions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Research Analyst I will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: managing and supporting technical components of projects and programs, coordinating with collaborators and project partners, providing technical support to project leaders, engaging with implementing partners and funding agencies, and presenting research proposals and findings to various stakeholders. The analyst will also contribute to the design and implementation of household surveys, lead fieldwork activities, manage randomized controlled trials, and develop data documentation manuals. Furthermore, the role includes conducting data cleaning and statistical analysis, co-authoring research reports, and preparing technical documents and donor reports. The analyst will be expected to support the development of research proposals and perform other duties as assigned to ensure project success and alignment with program objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Economics, Agricultural Economics, Statistics, Public Policy, or a related field, along with a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience post-master’s. The ideal candidate will have experience in coordinating field-based projects, organizing large-scale surveys, and a strong foundation in both quantitative and qualitative research methods. Proficiency in econometrics, statistical analysis, and data management is essential, as well as experience in developing survey instruments and engaging with various stakeholders. Excellent writing, drafting, and presentation skills are required, along with the ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks effectively.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Economics, Agricultural Economics, Statistics, or Public Policy is required for this position. This educational background provides the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to conduct high-level research and analysis in the context of agricultural policy and food security.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience, particularly in coordinating field-based projects and managing large-scale data collection activities. Candidates should have a proven track record of engaging with stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and research institutions, and should demonstrate experience in proposal development and project management.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if it enhances communication with local stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is a one-year, renewable appointment based in Abuja, Nigeria. The role is full-time and requires the candidate to have work authorization to operate in Nigeria. The successful applicant should be willing to travel for fieldwork and project coordination as needed. The physical demands of the job include sitting for extended periods and the ability to lift light weights, as well as close visual acuity for data analysis and report preparation.