Transform Data into Actionable Insights
UNICEF is seeking a dedicated Qualitative Research Consultant to join its Global Office of Research and Foresight for the initiative Data Must Speak to Strengthen Capacity and Advance Local Evidence Use (DMS SCALE). This opportunity, which spans approximately 181 working days, offers a remote work-from-home setting. Candidates interested in making a significant impact in the education sector are encouraged to apply now.
- Job No: 580789
- Contract Type: Consultant
- Duty Station: Florence
- Level: Consultancy
- Categories: Education, Research, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation
Making a Difference in the Lives of Children
UNICEF operates in some of the most challenging environments around the world to reach the most disadvantaged children. Their mission is clear: save lives, defend rights, and help children fulfill their potential. With a presence in over 190 countries, UNICEF is dedicated to improving the lives of every child, every day.
The role of qualitative research is crucial in understanding children’s needs and improving educational outcomes. While countries have invested heavily in Education Management Information Systems (EMIS) and learning assessments, data remains underutilized in shaping education policies. The DMS SCALE initiative seeks to change this by identifying and amplifying the voices of local stakeholders and using existing data to drive evidence-based decision-making.
Role Responsibilities: How You Can Make an Impact
For this consultancy position, the successful candidate will play a pivotal role in various activities aimed at advancing the DMS SCALE initiative. Key responsibilities include:
- Framework Development: Collaborate with a team of researchers to refine the conceptual framework and research methodologies based on prior country-level scoping reviews.
- Design Data Collection Instruments: Work directly with in-country stakeholders to develop qualitative data collection tools, including Key Informant Interviews and Focus Group Discussions.
- Sampling Strategy: Support the finalization of the qualitative sampling strategy to select participants for data collection activities.
- Training and Coordination: Organize training sessions and meetings with survey firms to ensure ethical protocols, data collection timelines, and quality assurance measures are in place.
- Capacity Building: Enhance the capabilities of Ministries of Education and UNICEF offices through training sessions focused on qualitative data collection and analysis.
- Ethics and Compliance: Contribute to the submission of Institutional Review Board (IRB) ethics protection protocols before commencing data collection.
- Data Assurance and Analysis: Oversee quality assurance of audio files and transcriptions, assisting in coding qualitative data using Nvivo software, and maintaining consistency across research teams.
- Reporting and Dissemination: Draft reports at the country, regional, or global levels based on research results, ensuring adherence to UNICEF Innocenti Quality Assurance processes. Additionally, contribute to knowledge products for wider dissemination.
- Advocacy for Evidence Use: Engage in activities that promote the utilization of research findings among policymakers at the country level.
- Continuous Improvement: Work collaboratively within the DMS research team to refine methodologies through iterative learning processes.
Are You the Right Candidate?
To qualify for this exciting opportunity, candidates should possess:
- An advanced university degree (Master’s or higher) in fields such as education, social sciences, international development, or a related discipline.
- A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience, especially in developing country contexts.
- Proven experience in qualitative research methodologies and managerial oversight of primary data collection.
- Demonstrated skills in coding and analysis of qualitative datasets using Nvivo software.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, with the ability to bridge research findings with practical applications for policymakers.
- A strong team player with experience in building relationships with diverse stakeholders.
- Commitment to UNICEF’s core values of care, respect, integrity, transparency, and accountability.
- Fluency in English is required; proficiency in French is strongly preferred.
Experience working in the UN or international development organizations, especially within the education sector, is considered an asset. Familiarity with emergency contexts and data triangulation methodologies enhances a candidate’s profile.
Join UNICEF in Making a Difference
This consultancy offers a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful change in the education sector worldwide. By applying your expertise in qualitative research, you will play a crucial role in empowering local education stakeholders to utilize data effectively, thus enabling better educational outcomes and promoting equity in education.
If you are ready to make a difference for every child, you can learn more about this opportunity by reviewing the complete Terms of Reference here.
Apply now and be part of UNICEF’s vital mission to help children fulfill their potential through effective data use in education policy!
For Every Child, You Demonstrate
At UNICEF, we uphold values that reflect our commitment to every child: Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust, Accountability, and Sustainability (CRITAS). Embark on this journey with UNICEF and empower communities through evidence-based decision-making in education. Join us in transforming lives, one data point at a time.
Visit the UNICEF Careers Page
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