Consultant for Impact Assessment Study

Job Posting Organization:
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is a renowned research institution established to provide evidence-based policy solutions to reduce poverty and end hunger and malnutrition. IFPRI was founded in 1975 and has since grown to employ over 300 staff members, including researchers, policy analysts, and support staff. The organization operates in more than 40 countries worldwide, focusing on agricultural research and policy analysis to improve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and nutrition. IFPRI is part of the CGIAR, a global partnership that unites organizations engaged in research for a food-secure future. The institute's mission is to provide research-based policy solutions that promote sustainable food systems and improve the livelihoods of the poor. IFPRI is recognized for its high-quality research outputs and its commitment to communicating findings effectively to influence policy decisions.

Job Overview:
The consultant will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive impact assessment study of IFPRI’s research related to the food crises stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This position requires a deep understanding of the implications of these global events on food security, trade, diets, and agricultural production. The consultant will analyze IFPRI's contributions to policy formulation and resource allocation decisions made by funders and policymakers during these crises. The study will involve assessing the relevance and quality of IFPRI's research outputs, communications activities, and their overall impact on decision-making processes. The consultant will also identify challenges faced in achieving these impacts and explore factors that may enhance the likelihood of contributing to significant outcomes. The consultant will lead the study, ensuring that the final report meets the high standards expected by IFPRI and its stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of tasks, including: conducting desk reviews of IFPRI’s crisis-related outputs and impact materials; performing in-depth interviews with policymakers, funders, and relevant partners, primarily through virtual means, but also in-person if based in Washington, DC; utilizing analytical tools to trace the influence of research recommendations on policy decisions, programs, and investments; and employing tools to assess the impact of IFPRI’s communication efforts through various media outlets. The consultant will be responsible for producing a detailed workplan and methodology proposal, as well as a list of stakeholders for interviews. Deliverables include a draft report, a final report, and a policy brief, along with a presentation summarizing the findings at an IFPRI policy event or workshop.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an MSc or PhD in economics, political science, evaluation science, or a related discipline relevant to policy research and its impacts. A minimum of 10 years of post-graduate experience is required, along with a strong familiarity with IFPRI’s work and methodologies. Excellent writing skills are essential for producing high-quality reports and policy briefs. The consultant should also demonstrate a proven track record in conducting impact assessments and a deep understanding of the food security landscape.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate will have an advanced degree (MSc or PhD) in a relevant field such as economics, political science, or evaluation science. This educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding complex policy issues and conducting rigorous research and analysis related to food security and agricultural policies.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of post-graduate experience in relevant fields, particularly in conducting impact assessments and policy research. Candidates should have a strong background in analyzing the effects of global events on food security and trade, as well as experience working with policymakers and stakeholders in the agricultural sector.

Languages:
While the job posting does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication and report writing. Additional languages may be beneficial, particularly those relevant to the regions affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine crisis, to facilitate interviews and stakeholder engagement.

Additional Notes:
The time commitment for this consultancy is anticipated to be between 15 and 25 days. The consultant will be expected to deliver a proposed workplan, methodology, and list of interviewees by June 15, 2026, with a draft report due by September 15, 202

• The final report and policy brief are expected by December 15, 2026, followed by a presentation at an IFPRI policy event or workshop in Winter 202
• This consultancy may involve remote work, but in-person meetings in Washington, DC may be required if the consultant is based in that area.