Research Specialist (Punjab)

PERSI supports small scale activities in Punjab and Sindh by providing grants to undertake programming. The activities are designed to support organizations, including Governmental entities, local organizations and community groups, to implement peace building and community development activities.  

Overview  

The Research Specialist will report directly to the Monitoring and Evaluation Manager in Islamabad, with day-to-day supervision provided by the M&E Coordinator, Lahore. There is a possibility, if needed, that the position may supervise and manage 1-2 Research Assistants. While the position will primarily be engaged to support monitoring, evaluation, and learning efforts, the position may also support other discrete research-focused initiatives identified by the M&E team in partnership with other members of the program and Communications teams.

Scope of Work

• Provide technical support to the M&E team as requested in development of M&E plans, data collection tools, and outcome-level data collection, in particular FGDs
• In consultation with relevant members of the M&E team, take point on more complex methods of outcome-level data collection, such as:
• Management, implementation, and observation of FGDs, including training of social mobilizers and facilitators;
• Maintain quality control over associated FGD products (i.e. transcripts, translations, and/or FGD reports)
• As requested, work with program and/or Communications team to conduct discrete research activities (largely desk-based) to inform grant design and program efforts
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor

Qualifications

• At least 8 years’ experience in mixed methods research, in particular qualitative research, and associated analysis
• Ability to juggle competing priorities in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment
• Demonstrated interest in peacebuilding and community empowerment
• Familiarity with conducting sensitive research in a high risk environment
• Excellent writing and critical thinking skills
• MA in relevant field
• Fluency in written and spoken English and Urdu; proficiency in regional languages such as Punjabi, Seraiki, Sindhi, and/or Pashto highly desired
• Previous experience in supervision and management of staff
• Excellent communication skills
• Positive attitude and ability to work in a collaborative, team-based environment
• Ability to travel to the field, at times on short notice