Institutional Engagement for Food System Transformation

Job Posting Organization:
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is a research center that aims to provide evidence-based solutions to reduce poverty and end hunger and malnutrition. Established in 1975, IFPRI operates in over 40 countries and employs more than 300 staff members, including researchers, policy analysts, and support staff. The organization focuses on agricultural research and policy analysis, with a mission to improve food systems and promote sustainable agricultural practices. IFPRI collaborates with various international organizations, governments, and research institutions to enhance security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and nutrition globally.

Job Overview:
The position involves engaging a qualified institution based in Bangladesh to implement specific project activities under the ATMI-II initiative, which aims to ensure inclusiveness, sustainability, and efficiency in food system transformation across ASEAN and BIMSTEC countries. The selected institution will be responsible for generating evidence-based policy insights regarding Bangladesh's agri-food system transformation, particularly in the context of evolving trade and economic partnerships. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of trade policy analysis, regional economic integration, and the ability to foster policy dialogue among stakeholders. The institution will also contribute to capacity strengthening efforts and facilitate collaboration among various stakeholders to promote inclusive agricultural transformation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The selected institution will carry out several interconnected activities, including: conducting an analysis of household-level participation in food enterprises in Bangladesh using the Bangladesh Integrated Household Survey (BIHS) panel data; organizing a national policy roundtable to disseminate findings and facilitate policy dialogue; organizing a regional capacity strengthening event under the NePAA framework; reviewing studies on domestic trade costs and market connectivity; and providing technical and institutional support for the design and structuring of NePAA. Each of these activities is aimed at enhancing analytical capacity and promoting informed dialogue on policy priorities for sustainable agricultural transformation in Bangladesh.

Required Qualifications:
The institution must demonstrate established expertise in trade policy analysis, agricultural economics, and regional economic integration. A proven track record of conducting relevant policy research and analysis, particularly in developing countries, is essential. Experience in organizing high-level policy dialogues and capacity strengthening events involving government stakeholders and international organizations is also required. The institution should have existing relationships with BIMSTEC and ASEAN secretariats and experience collaborating with international research organizations. Strong networks with government policymakers and research institutions in Bangladesh are crucial, and the institution must be legally registered in Bangladesh.

Educational Background:
While specific educational qualifications are not explicitly stated, it is implied that the institution should have a strong academic foundation in fields related to agricultural economics, trade policy, or regional development. This may include advanced degrees in relevant disciplines such as economics, agricultural sciences, or public policy, which would support the analytical and research capabilities required for the assignment.

Experience:
The institution should have significant experience in conducting policy research and analysis relevant to agricultural transformation and trade policy, particularly in the context of South and Southeast Asia. Experience in engaging with government stakeholders and facilitating policy dialogues is essential, as is a history of successful collaboration with international organizations and research institutions. The ability to demonstrate a track record of impactful research and policy engagement will be critical for this role.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential for communication with international stakeholders and for the preparation of reports and documentation. Knowledge of Bengali may also be beneficial for engaging with local stakeholders and conducting research within Bangladesh.

Additional Notes:
The contract period for this assignment is from June 01, 2026, to December 31, 202

• The selected institution will work closely with IFPRI's team under the ATMI-II initiative, and all deliverables will undergo technical review by IFPRI before finalization. Regular virtual meetings will be scheduled for progress updates and coordination. The institution will retain the right to use findings for academic and policy purposes, provided that IFPRI and the ATMI-II project are duly acknowledged.