Citizen Security Knowledge and Research Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The IDB Group is a community dedicated to improving lives in Latin America and the Caribbean. Established with a mission to foster sustainable development and social progress, the organization comprises a diverse team of passionate individuals who work collaboratively in an inclusive and agile environment. The IDB Group operates across multiple countries in the region, focusing on various sectors to address pressing challenges and enhance the quality of life for communities. The organization values innovation, diversity, and the contributions of its employees, striving to create a workplace where everyone can thrive and make a meaningful impact.

Job Overview:
The Citizen security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Justice (CSJ) team within the IDB Group is focused on enhancing its knowledge and evidence agenda to assist countries in Latin America and the Caribbean in tackling issues related to crime and violence. This position is pivotal in connecting rigorous research with policy dialogue, ensuring that the Bank's lending and technical cooperation efforts are informed by high standards of scientific knowledge. The role involves leading the integration of evidence into various initiatives, thereby ensuring that interventions are based on proven methodologies and contribute to the Bank's overall impact in the region. The specialist will also play a crucial role in positioning the IDB as a leading knowledge institution in the field of citizen security, maintaining a robust pipeline of high-quality research that informs policy and practice.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary duties of the Citizen Security Knowledge and Research Specialist include leading and conducting high-quality applied and academic research on citizen security and justice, ensuring methodological rigor in both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The specialist will develop and implement a comprehensive knowledge agenda in collaboration with the Sector Economic Advisor, aligning research priorities with regional challenges and evidence gaps. Responsibilities also include coordinating and quality assuring research outputs from internal teams and external partners, promoting innovation in research methodologies, and integrating evidence into new and existing initiatives. The role requires providing technical guidance to teams, supporting policy dialogue with governments through evidence-based recommendations, and positioning the IDB as a regional leader in citizen security knowledge. Additionally, the specialist will build partnerships with academic institutions and think tanks, lead dissemination strategies, and strengthen internal capacities through mentoring and knowledge sharing initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in public policy, political science, economics, development, or a related field, with a PhD preferred. A minimum of 4 years of relevant experience in research and knowledge roles is required, with 7 years being preferable. Applicants should have a proven track record of high-quality research and publications in areas related to citizen security and crime, as well as demonstrated experience in linking evidence to policy design, ideally within development institutions. Strong expertise in quantitative and/or qualitative research methods, including impact evaluation, is essential, along with the ability to translate complex evidence into actionable policy recommendations. Knowledge of citizen security and justice sector issues in the region is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in relevant fields such as public policy, political science, economics, or development. A PhD is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and research capability in the relevant areas.

Experience:
The position requires at least 4 years of relevant experience in research and knowledge roles, with a preference for candidates who have 7 years of experience. This experience should include a strong focus on citizen security, crime, or related areas, with a proven ability to conduct high-quality research and contribute to technical cooperation projects.

Languages:
Proficiency in both Spanish and English, spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. Additional knowledge of French and Portuguese is considered a plus, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the organization's regional initiatives.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered as an international staff contract for an initial duration of 36 months, with the possibility of renewal upon mutual agreement. The IDB Group provides a competitive compensation package, including a net-of-tax annual salary, generous leave policies, comprehensive health insurance, and a defined benefit pension plan. Additional benefits include relocation assistance, access to health services, professional development support, and various workplace perks such as a lactation room, daycare center, gym facilities, and more. The IDB Group is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, welcoming individuals from underrepresented groups and ensuring reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities during the application process.