Lead Researcher

Job Ref: 046/2024
Position: Lead Researcher (Authorized to work in Kenya) – 1 Position
Reporting: To the Project Consultant
Duty Location: Refugee settlements in Kenya (Dadaab & Kakuma)
Period: 28 months from 1st October 2024 to 28th February 2027
Effort: Part-time (Days spread through the contract period)
Application Deadline: September 20, 2024, 11:59 PM EAT

About HERS-EA:
Higher Education Resource Services-East Africa (HERS-EA) is a non-profit organization
dedicated to enhancing leadership, management, and governance in higher education
institutions across East Africa. We provide professional development programs, mentorship,
and resources to empower individuals and educational institutions in the region.
Job Summary:
HERS-EA is seeking an experienced researcher to lead a team of researchers to carry out a
research study to develop an educational model with associated tools that can be deployed in
refugee and internally displaced communities in the East Africa region. The model is expected
to develop the recipients’ skills to overcome barriers in their education and engage in gainful
employment to improve their lives.
Roles and Responsibilities:
o Conduct literature review for the research study to help develop children’s skills in
refugee settlements and IDPs to overcome barriers in their education and make positive
choices in their lives.
o Lead and supervise a team of researchers.
o Participate in development of tools for the research study, and ensure adherence to ethical
protocols.
o Participate in designing and developing the research study specifications, activities, and
documents.
o Develop a work plan according to the project requirements and track progress.
o Participate in field data collection.
o Analyze and interpret data collected.

o Maintain and protect both hard copy and electronic databases.
o Resolve field work conflicts with the guidance of the Project Consultant.
o Promptly report any issues to the Project Consultant.
o Adhere to the code of ethics and ensure confidentiality of information at all times.
o Fact-check and proofread protocols, tools, and all research documents including research
outputs.
o Prepare and present progress reports.
o Participate in project meetings, workshops, and dissemination activities as required.
o Perform any other duties that may be assigned by the Project Consultant
Qualifications and Skills
o Suitable candidates MUST be able to conduct literature reviews comprehensively and
write good research reports with minimal supervision.
o Master’s degree in a humanitarian and or, education field or any other related fields.
o At least three years of experience in collecting research data using different techniques
including in-depth interviews, and key informant interviews amongst others.
o Previous research experience in refugee settlements and IDPs is an added advantage.
Additional Requirements
o Ability to work independently, multi-task, and meet deadlines.
o Experience in working with international partners, such as universities, NGOs, and CSOs
is desirable.
o Desire to pursue a PhD.
o Ability to co-author peer-reviewed publications.
o Knowledge of gender and feminist research approaches.
Contract and Remuneration:
The selected Lead Researcher will be offered an annual contract (subject to renewal during the
duration of the project), with remuneration per days worked. HERS-EA will cover project
related expenses such as travel and accommodation.
Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit a 2-page CV that addresses the job specification, with a
cover letter not exceeding two pages, that includes two referees. Please indicate “Lead
Researcher” in the subject line. Email your documents to: [email protected] by September 20,
2024, 11:59 PM EAT. Due to the high volume of applications we usually receive, we are only
able to contact shortlisted candidates.
HERS-EA is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from qualified
individuals regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability status.

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