Consultant for Impact Assessment Study

Job Posting Organization:
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is a renowned research organization established to provide evidence-based 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 policy, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and nutrition. IFPRI's mission is to provide research-based policy solutions that promote sustainable food systems and improve the livelihoods of the poor. The institute is known for its rigorous research methodologies and its commitment to influencing policy through high-quality communication and outreach efforts. IFPRI has received multiple awards for its impactful research and communication strategies, including the AAEA Quality of Communication Award, which it has won twice for its timely and effective dissemination of research findings related to global food crises.

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 role involves evaluating the relevance and quality of IFPRI's research outputs, assessing the effectiveness of communication strategies, and analyzing how these contributions have influenced policy decisions and resource allocations. The consultant will utilize various analytical tools and methods, including desk reviews of existing research outputs, in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, and the application of analytical frameworks to trace the influence of research recommendations on policy and programmatic decisions. The consultant will also be expected to produce a detailed workplan and methodology proposal, ensuring that the assessment is thorough and aligns with IFPRI's objectives. The final deliverables will include a comprehensive report, a policy brief, and a presentation summarizing the findings at an IFPRI event.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct a desk review of IFPRI’s crisis-related outputs and impact materials to gather relevant data for the assessment.
• Perform in-depth interviews with policymakers, funders, and relevant partners to collect qualitative insights on the impact of IFPRI’s research.
• Develop a workplan and methodology proposal outlining the analytical approach to be used in the assessment.
• Analyze the contributions of IFPRI’s research on COVID-19 and Ukraine-related crises in terms of relevance, quality, and impact on policy formulation.
• Identify challenges faced in achieving impacts and factors that enhance the likelihood of contributing to meaningful outcomes.
• Utilize analytical tools to trace the influence of research recommendations on policy decisions and actions taken by stakeholders.
• Prepare a draft report summarizing the findings and submit it for peer review.
• Finalize the report based on feedback received and prepare a policy brief summarizing key insights.
• Present a high-level summary of the report at an IFPRI policy event or workshop.

Required Qualifications:

• A Master’s degree (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 in research or evaluation, particularly in the context of food policy or related fields.
• Strong familiarity with IFPRI’s work and its research outputs, particularly in relation to food security and crisis management.
• Proven experience in conducting impact assessments and evaluations, with a focus on policy influence.
• Excellent writing skills, with the ability to communicate complex research findings clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess at least a Master’s degree (MSc) or a PhD in a relevant field such as economics, political science, evaluation science, or another discipline that is pertinent to policy research and its impacts. The educational background should provide a strong foundation in research methodologies and analytical techniques applicable to impact assessments.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of post-graduate experience, demonstrating a strong track record in conducting research and evaluations, particularly in the context of food policy, agricultural economics, or related areas. Candidates should have substantial experience in impact assessments and a deep understanding of the dynamics of policy formulation and implementation.

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 relevant to the regions where IFPRI operates, but they are not explicitly required for this position.

Additional Notes:
The assignment is expected to take between 15 and 25 days, indicating a flexible time commitment. The consultant will work remotely, allowing for a broad range of candidates to apply regardless of their geographical location. The deliverables include a proposed workplan and methodology by June 15, 2026, a draft report by September 15, 2026, and a final report along with a policy brief by December 15, 202

• The consultant will also be required to present findings at an IFPRI policy event or workshop in Winter 2027.