Consultant for Conducting a Qualitative Assessment of Climate Information

Consultant for Conducting a Qualitative Assessment of Climate Information

International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI)

August 3, 2026September 17, 2026India
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is a renowned research organization that focuses on food policy and agricultural development. Established in 1975, IFPRI operates globally with a mission to provide research-based policy solutions to sustainably reduce poverty and end hunger and malnutrition. The organization employs a diverse team of experts and researchers who work across various countries to address critical issues related to security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, climate change, and agricultural productivity. IFPRI is part of the CGIAR system, which is a global partnership that unites organizations engaged in research for a food-secure future. The CGIAR Climate Action Science Program, under which this position falls, aims to enhance the resilience of food systems to climate change through innovative research and policy advocacy.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a pivotal role in conducting a qualitative assessment aimed at understanding how financial institutions assess climate-related risks and integrate climate information into their agricultural lending portfolios. This position is crucial for generating qualitative, implementation-oriented evidence that will inform the integration of climate information into agricultural finance. The consultant will be responsible for conducting semi-structured interviews with portfolio risk teams within financial institutions, as well as relevant regulators and stakeholders. The insights gathered will contribute to the development of practical approaches for enhancing climate-informed financial services for smallholder agriculture. The consultant will also synthesize findings and prepare analytical outputs that align with the project's research and policy objectives, ensuring that the results are actionable and relevant to the stakeholders involved.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties will include reviewing project documentation and background literature to refine the analytical framework and interview instruments in collaboration with the IFPRI research team. They will develop a detailed implementation workplan and coordinate the scheduling of interviews, ensuring that all logistical aspects are managed effectively. Conducting approximately 25 semi-structured interviews with representatives from portfolio risk teams, regulators, and other stakeholders will be a key responsibility, with a focus on maintaining confidentiality and proper documentation. The consultant will perform framework-based thematic analysis of the interview data to identify current practices, barriers, and opportunities related to the integration of climate information into agricultural portfolio risk assessment. Additionally, they will prepare interview summaries, analytical reports, and contribute to policy dialogue materials, incorporating feedback from the research team as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in economics, finance, agricultural economics, climate policy, public policy, development studies, or a related discipline. They should have demonstrated experience in conducting qualitative research and engaging with financial institutions, regulators, and other stakeholders on topics related to climate finance and agricultural finance. The ability to prepare high-quality analytical reports and policy briefs for various audiences, including governments and international organizations, is essential. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required, along with the ability to work independently while effectively coordinating with a multidisciplinary research team.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in a relevant field such as economics, finance, agricultural economics, climate policy, public policy, or development studies is required for this position. This educational background will provide the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to conduct the qualitative assessment effectively and contribute to the project's objectives.

Experience:
Candidates should have substantial experience in qualitative research, particularly in the context of climate finance and agricultural finance. Experience engaging with financial institutions and understanding their risk management practices is crucial. The consultant should also have a proven track record of preparing analytical reports and policy briefs that inform decision-making processes within governments and international organizations.

Languages:
Proficiency in local languages relevant to the project areas in India is preferred, as this will facilitate effective communication during interviews and enhance the quality of the qualitative assessment. While English is mandatory, knowledge of regional languages can significantly improve engagement with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in India and allows for remote work, with limited travel required if necessary. The consultant will be expected to manage their time effectively to meet project deadlines and deliverables. The application deadline for this position is August 10, 2026, and candidates are encouraged to apply early to ensure consideration.
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