National Consultant Researcher

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women was established in July 2010 as part of the UN reform agenda to enhance the impact of gender equality and women's empowerment initiatives. It merges the efforts of four previously distinct parts of the UN system, namely DAW, OSAGI, INSTRAW, and UNIFEM, to create a unified entity focused on advancing women's rights globally. UN Women operates in multiple countries, working to shift laws, institutions, social behaviors, and services to close the gender gap and build an equal world for all women and girls. The organization is committed to ensuring that the rights of women and girls are at the center of global progress, emphasizing that gender equality is not just a goal but an integral part of its identity and mission.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant Researcher will play a crucial role in conducting the Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) and Situational Analysis Phase II for the THRIVE project, which aims to empower marginalized women in Sri Lanka. This position requires the consultant to develop an inception report, design data collection tools, and conduct comprehensive data analysis to inform the project's implementation strategy. The consultant will work closely with UN Women and other stakeholders to ensure that the analysis reflects the diverse experiences of women and other marginalized groups, particularly in the context of the recent impacts of Cyclone Ditwah. The consultant will be responsible for delivering high-quality reports that adhere to UN Women’s guidelines and contribute to the overall goals of the THRIVE project.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop the inception report for the GEDSI and Situational Analysis Phase II, including a detailed methodology, data collection tools, and a clear design framework.
• Conduct a comprehensive desk review and outline measures to address identified risks and challenges.
• Develop data collection and analysis tools based on an intersectional approach, ensuring alignment with the Gender at Work Framework.
• Conduct data collection and analysis, utilizing both primary and secondary data sources, and systematically triangulate data to enhance validity and reliability.
• Present initial findings and recommendations to UN Women, ensuring that all data collected is stored securely and anonymized.
• Draft and finalize the GEDSI and Situational Analysis Phase II report, incorporating feedback from UN Women and partners, and ensuring adherence to UN Women branding guidelines.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or higher in a relevant discipline such as international development, sociology, gender studies, or a related field. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in leading assessments, research, or reviews in a development context, particularly related to gender equality and women's empowerment. Proven experience in conducting GEDSI analyses and familiarity with the socio-political context of Sri Lanka are essential. Candidates should also demonstrate strong research, analytical, and writing skills, as well as experience engaging with UN agencies and high-level government stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree or higher in relevant disciplines such as international development, development studies, law, sociology, social sciences, Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion, climate resilience, or gender studies is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in assessments, research, or reviews within a development context, specifically focusing on gender equality and women's empowerment. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in conducting GEDSI analyses and familiarity with the socio-political landscape of Sri Lanka, particularly in the six project districts. Experience in both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies is essential, along with a proven track record in research report writing and engagement with UN agencies and government stakeholders.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, along with fluency in at least one local language, either Sinhala or Tamil, to effectively engage with diverse communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to commence on April 8, 2026, and conclude by June 30, 202

• The consultant will be compensated based on the achievement of deliverables, with payments processed upon approval by the Head of Office of UN Women Sri Lanka. Reimbursement for mobile and internet bills, printing, stationery, translation, interpretation, and travel costs may be provided upon prior approval. All data collected during the consultancy will remain the property of UN Women, and strict confidentiality and ethical standards must be adhered to throughout the research process.