Research Officer

Position: Research Officer
Reports to: Lead, Research Policy Analysis and Dialogue Department (RPAD) Location: IPSS, Addis Ababa University
Duration: July 2015- June 2016 with possibility of extension depending on performance and funding availability

Background:

One of the broader visions of the Institute for Peace and Security Studies (IPSS) is to serve African stakeholders in the area of Peace and security through education and professional development, policy dialogue and research. The Institute’s primary focus in the area of research is in harnessing and refining the concept of African-centred solutions in peace and security (AfSol).To achieve its vision, IPSS partners with different continental and regional organizations to deliver policy options and to influence policymakers in the area of peace and security in Africa.

The Research Policy Analysis and Dialogue Department (RPAD) of IPSS, is devoted to realize IPSS’ vision by conducting action oriented researches and by producing high quality policy papers.

For this purpose, we are recruiting a Research Officer who will be playing a dynamic role in the overall activities of the RPAD. The Research Officer will be responsible to participate in research projects and contribute contents to the policy papers of the department.

Tasks and Deliverables

The following are the major tasks and deliverables expected of the Research Officer:

• Write concept notes and manage call for abstracts for the research department’s publications
• Supervise research projects from early planning stage to project completion
• Communicate with team members and verify that all research projects and tasks are on schedule
• Develop reviewing guidelines for abstracts and research submissions
• Review research papers
• Engage with reviewers and follow up the selection process on research papers
• Contribute to the AfSol blog by writing at least two articles and reviewing submissions
• Manage, moderate and update the AfSol Network
• Develop concept notes and propose ideas for briefing sessions
• Develop concept notes and propose ideas for the series of IPSS policy papers
• Contribute to the preparation of funding proposals to support RPAD activities

Required qualification and experience:
• Master’s Degree in Peace and Security Studies and other related fields
• Experience in running research projects or working as a research assistant

Other skills and abilities:

• Familiarity with the AU and the REC’s activities in the areas of peace and security
• Knowledge and skills of both quantitative and qualitative research
• Ability to write high-quality research reports
• Ability to work and deliver under pressure
• Readiness to work in a multi-cultural setting
• Excellent language skills in English (oral and written)
• Adaptability to work with customers and stakeholders
• Ability to manage various priorities
• Knowledge and skills in data collection and analysis of statistical computer software programmes, qualitative data sets, project management and communication
• Excellent knowledge of Microsoft office applications (MS word and excel)

Application Procedure

Interested applicants shall send a covering letter and CV to the e-mail address: application@ipss-addis.org OR submit the application documents to IPSS Administration /Human Resources office latest by 2nd July, 2015.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.