Research Assistant Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization emphasizes the importance of gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, aligning its strategic plan with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD). UNFPA is committed to addressing the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and advocates for the protection of human rights, particularly in the context of sexual and reproductive health.

Job Overview:
The Research Assistant Consultant will play a crucial role in supporting the UNFPA Ethiopia Country Office by focusing on evidence generation related to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) and Adolescent and Youth development. This position involves working closely with the Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist and the Programme Specialist to ensure effective project monitoring and data collection. The consultant will assist in various projects, particularly those funded by Japan, aimed at empowering vulnerable women and girls through improved menstrual health and hygiene management. The role requires a proactive approach to research, data analysis, and documentation, contributing to the overall mission of UNFPA to enhance the health and rights of women and girls in Ethiopia.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a range of tasks including: assisting in the monitoring of the Japan-funded project focused on social and economic empowerment of vulnerable women and girls; participating in field visits to collect and verify data; supporting evidence generation on the effectiveness of investments in SRH justice; documenting good practices and project results; developing publications and communication materials through comprehensive situational analysis; tracking the progress of beneficiaries; and preparing high-quality reports aligned with donor and organizational standards. The consultant will also support monitoring and evidence generation across various UNFPA projects, including those addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and humanitarian responses.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in public health, epidemiology, development, or a related field. They should have at least 5 years of research and monitoring experience in relevant areas, with some experience in development or humanitarian aid agencies. Familiarity with Menstrual Health Management projects and Public-Private Partnership initiatives is considered an asset. Strong research, analytical, and writing skills are essential, along with the ability to work harmoniously with diverse teams.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in public health, epidemiology, development, or a relevant field is required for this position. This educational background provides the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of sexual and reproductive health and rights, as well as the socio-economic factors affecting vulnerable populations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in research and monitoring, particularly in public health, epidemiology, or development. Candidates should have experience working with development or humanitarian aid agencies, which will enhance their understanding of the challenges and dynamics in these fields. Experience with Menstrual Health Management projects and Public-Private Partnership initiatives is advantageous and will contribute to the consultant's effectiveness in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of Ethiopian regional languages and another UN language is considered an asset, as it will facilitate communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders and beneficiaries.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is for a fixed term of 6 months, from July 1 to December 30, 202

• The consultant will be compensated based on a lumpsum remuneration determined by the evaluation of the candidate's profile and the requirements of the consultancy. UNFPA emphasizes a work environment that promotes gender equality, diversity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization encourages applications from women and persons with disabilities, ensuring equal opportunities in recruitment and training. The selection process may involve background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements, and UNFPA does not charge any fees during the application process.