Senior Consultant for Food Security Portal

Job Posting Organization:
The security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Food Security Portal (FSP) is hosted by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), which is dedicated to providing data, analytical tools, and evidence to support food security decision-making on a global scale. IFPRI was established to tackle issues related to food security and nutrition, and it operates in numerous countries worldwide, employing a diverse team of experts in various fields. The organization aims to enhance food security through research, policy analysis, and capacity building, leveraging innovative approaches and technologies to address the challenges of hunger and malnutrition.

Job Overview:
The Senior Consultant will play a pivotal role in the ongoing development of the Food Security Portal (FSP) by providing strategic guidance and support, particularly in the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) tools. The consultant will focus on enhancing the FSP's analytical capabilities and outreach, ensuring that the platform effectively synthesizes evidence and engages with humanitarian and development partners. The consultant's work will span three months, during which they will conceptualize AI-enabled tools, contribute to AI-based modeling of food insecurity, and identify opportunities for improved outreach to stakeholders in the food security sector.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key tasks, including reviewing existing FSP tools and content to identify priority areas for AI-based evidence synthesis and intelligent search. They will provide recommendations and conceptual inputs for the integration of AI tools into the FSP, ensuring that these tools enhance the usability and synthesis of evidence across the platform. Additionally, the consultant will offer strategic guidance on the design of new AI-based models relevant to food insecurity analysis and assess changes in analytical needs related to food security. They will also recommend ways for the FSP to improve its outreach to better support humanitarian decision-making. Deliverables will include a brief inception note outlining the approach and workplan, regular guidance to teams on developing and integrating AI tools, a memo with recommendations for strengthening FSP engagement with partners, and a final synthesis note detailing next steps for the FSP.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree or equivalent experience in fields such as economics, nutrition, public policy, or a related discipline. They should demonstrate expertise in food security and development policy, showcasing a strong understanding of the complexities involved in these areas. Familiarity with data platforms, evidence synthesis, and user-facing analytical tools for assessing food security is essential. Furthermore, candidates should have experience working with or supporting development and humanitarian actors, along with excellent writing and communication skills to effectively convey complex ideas and recommendations.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in economics, nutrition, public policy, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the multifaceted issues surrounding food security and the analytical skills needed to contribute to the FSP's objectives.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a demonstrated level of experience in food security and development policy. This includes practical experience working with development and humanitarian actors, which is crucial for understanding the needs and challenges faced by these stakeholders in the context of food security. The consultant should also have experience in utilizing analytical tools and data platforms relevant to food security analysis.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication and reporting. Additional language skills may be beneficial, particularly in languages commonly spoken in regions affected by food insecurity, to facilitate engagement with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for three months, during which the consultant will work closely with the FSP team and report to the Director of the Markets, Trade and Institutions unit. This position is likely to be full-time, and the consultant may be required to engage with international partners and stakeholders. Compensation details and benefits are not specified in the job description, but candidates should inquire about these aspects during the application process.