Job Summary

The ISS seeks to appoint a senior researcher on human security in the Horn of Africa. The senior researcher will undertake primary and secondary research and analysis, develop policy recommendations and actively communicate results to ISS stakeholders, including the African Union, inter-governmental institutions, civil society actors, as well as international actors operating on the continent, the media and local communities.

The work involves independently managing complex research projects, providing capacity building and technical support to regional governments, and participating in policy engagements. The senior researcher will assist in resource mobilization, tracking budgets and expenditure, and project monitoring and evaluation. The successful candidate will help build the ISS’ profile by initiating and maintaining stakeholder and donor relationships, ensuring that the right policy makers engage with research results, and shaping African and global decision making on human security.

The senior researcher will report to the ISS Regional Director and Representative to African Union, Horn and East Africa.

Overview of duties

• Stay up to date on human security developments in the Horn of Africa through research and monitoring of national and international media, and other sources
• Initiate, plan and undertake primary and secondary research, and disseminate the results in a timely, insightful and relevant way to specific audiences
• Manage ISS support to the Intergovernmental Authority on Development and regional governments through technical support and other capacity-building engagements
• Manage research projects and guide junior team members in the production of written content as well as briefings and presentations
• Maintain proactive relationships with key partners and relevant regional and international organisations
• Conduct regular media interviews
• Convene seminars, closed briefings and expert roundtables, and present research findings at ISS events and other relevant forums
• Identify new opportunities for funding and draft concept notes and proposals

The contract will be for one year, and may be renewed subject to ISS’ requirements, funding and satisfactory performance. A competitive salary is offered.

Job Requirements

Overview of requirements

• Masters or PhD qualification in international studies, peace and conflict resolution, political science, security studies, law or related field
• At least 10 years’ experience in a policy, research, government, training or other relevant professional environment, preferably with a focus on the Horn of Africa region
• Excellent understanding of theories and practice of conflict resolution, negotiations, conflict management, stabilization and political transitions in complex environments
• Excellent networking, political and interpersonal skills, in particular the ability to work in partnership with international and continental organizations, governments and civil society
• At least five years’ experience in managing projects and supervising junior staff
• Experience in budget management and financial administration
• Knowledge and experience of monitoring and evaluation
• An existing track record of relevant publications, media commentary and public speaking at international forums
• Excellent verbal and written skills in English
• Experience in and a willingness to work in a diverse team
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Willingness to travel to difficult places

How to Apply

Email your application to addisjobs@issafrica.org. Applicants must provide a cover letter, detailed CV, including at least three contactable referees, as well as a copy of a recently published article in a peer-reviewed journal or equivalent. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Closing date: 24 January 2021