Researcher

Terms of reference

Researcher

About the centre

The Centre for Social Sciences Research and Action is an action-oriented, non-profit research centre for and about civil society.
We are a multidisciplinary space creating synergies and bridging between researchers, experts, civil society and NGO practitioners, and activists. The Centre for Social Sciences Research and Action aims to foster social change through innovative uses of social science, digital technologies, and publication and exchange of knowledge.

Main Tasks:

The Researcher produces scientific knowledge, contributes to the uptake of research results and underscoring their significance to diverse audiences, and disseminates scientific information in a variety of outputs.

This researcher will specifically focus on social policy making in Lebanon and the region, and more specifically, on social protection. They will also be expected to provide monitoring and analysis of IFIs decisions and policies. 

The researcher’s main tasks include:

• Develop, using a range of research methodologies (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods), a variety of research publications focusing on social policy making processes and social protection more particularly, and the monitoring and analysis of IFIs decisions and policies;
• Undertake field research using a variety of methodologies and techniques;
• Analyse findings, and publish them in a variety of knowledge products: scientific papers, short articles, reports, policy briefs, blog posts, infographic materials, etc.;
• Disseminate research insights and findings in scientific, policy, and other knowledge sharing events and other media;
• Contribute to  reviewing and / or editing centre’s content, and publications, for quality and consistency prior to dissemination;
• Coordinate and follow up on all research related activities; 
• Contribute to the visibility of the centre’s research and publications;
• Identify synergies as well as opportunities across Lebanon, the region and globally,  to enhance opportunities for knowledge sharing as per the centre’s mandate, and liaise with research centres, universities, and think tanks. 
• Perform other tasks as needed.

Qualifications

• Masters degree in social sciences is required (sociology, political science, anthropology); PhD candidates are encouraged to apply.
• Excellent research and analytical skills and academic record; 
• At least 5 years of experience in related field. A more junior position might be considered when relevant;
• Outstanding writing, editing and analytical skills, and ability to formulate well-targeted policy recommendations;
• Excellent knowledge of qualitative research methods; familiarity with quantitative tools and mixed methods is highly desirable;
• Excellent time management skills;
• Fluency in English, Arabic and French is required. 
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including good public presentation skills, and a very strong capacity for effective teamwork.