National Consultant - National Research Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead United Nations agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established to address global population issues, UNFPA operates in numerous countries worldwide, working towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 203

• The organization emphasizes gender equality, reproductive health, and rights, and aims to empower women and girls through evidence-based policies and programs. UNFPA's mission is articulated in its Strategic Plan for 2026-2029, which outlines its commitment to addressing complex global challenges and enhancing resilience and renewal in various contexts. The organization is dedicated to ethical standards and human rights, striving to create a world where fundamental rights are upheld and respected.

Job Overview:
The Research Coordinator position is pivotal in managing a national study focused on women's well-being in the Solomon Islands. The consultant will collaborate closely with national partners, including the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs (MWYCFA) and the Solomon Islands National Statistics Office (SINSO), as well as civil society organizations and technical experts. The role involves ensuring that strategic interventions are implemented in accordance with national and global ethical standards. The consultant will be responsible for the day-to-day coordination, management, monitoring, and reporting of the study, working under the guidance of the UNFPA Head of Office and receiving technical support from various advisors. The position requires a strong commitment to ethical practices and the ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments, ensuring that the research aligns with the goals of gender equality and women's empowerment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Research Coordinator include:

• Strategic Coordination and Governance Support: Act as the operational hub for the Research Coordination Team (RCT), coordinating daily activities among MWYCFA, SINSO, UNFPA, and DFAT. Provide secretariat support to the Steering Committee (SC) and Technical Advisory Group (TAG), facilitating communication and managing information flow.
• Operations, Documentation, and Project Management: Produce and manage all research documentation, monitor the research implementation timeline, coordinate logistical requirements for training and fieldwork, and ensure compliance with UNFPA rules.
• Fieldwork Supervision and Quality Control: Oversee risk management protocols, coordinate data collection, and maintain communication with field teams to address operational constraints.
• Dissemination, Knowledge Management, and Advocacy: Support data processing, assist in drafting reports, and coordinate logistics for national launch events. The role demands a proactive approach to stakeholder engagement and a commitment to high-quality research practices.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent professional experience in relevant fields such as Gender Studies, Sociology, Public Health, Demography, Statistics, or International Development. Additionally, a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in project management, research coordination, or social program implementation is required. Familiarity with the Solomon Islands Government context and established relationships with key ministries is essential. Experience within the UN system, particularly with UNFPA's procedures, is highly preferred. Candidates should demonstrate superb organizational skills, the ability to manage sensitive information, and excellent interpersonal communication skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in a relevant field such as Gender Studies, Sociology, Public Health, Demography, Statistics, or International Development. Equivalent professional experience may also be considered. The educational qualifications should reflect a strong foundation in social sciences, with an emphasis on gender issues and public health.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of increasingly responsible professional experience in areas such as project management, research coordination, or social program implementation. Candidates should have a deep understanding of the Solomon Islands context, including established professional relationships with key ministries and governance structures. Prior experience working within the UN system, particularly with UNFPA, is strongly preferred, along with substantive knowledge of gender-based violence and ethical considerations in social surveys.

Languages:
Absolute fluency in both spoken and written English and Solomon Islands Pijin is required for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with stakeholders and for the successful execution of the research project.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy payment will be on a monthly schedule following the submission and acceptance of monthly reports. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The organization emphasizes equal opportunities in recruitment and selection processes, ensuring that diversity, equity, and inclusion are central to its workforce.