CIVICUS, a global alliance dedicated to strengthening civil society and promoting democratic governance, is inviting applications for the position of Research Programme Officer. This role offers an exciting opportunity for a seasoned researcher with strong coordination skills to contribute to impactful projects that support civil society empowerment and democratic resilience worldwide.
About the Role
- Position: Research Programme Officer
- Cluster: Research
- Location: Remote (work from anywhere)
- Salary: USD 36,692.07 per annum (excluding benefits)
- Reports To: Senior Research Specialist
- Direct Reports: None
- Contract Type: Permanent (contingent on performance and funding)
The Research Programme Officer will play a pivotal role in supporting CIVICUS’s flagship initiatives, including the CIVICUS Lens project and the annual State of Civil Society Report. This dual focus combines rigorous research activities with strategic coordination and team management responsibilities, ensuring the delivery of high-quality outputs that inform policy and practice globally.
Role Overview
This position is designed for a professional with a robust background in social sciences or related fields, capable of conducting detailed research, managing workflows, and liaising effectively with various stakeholders. The successful candidate will undertake research tasks such as conducting interviews, literature reviews, and secondary data collection, while also providing administrative and team coordination support to enable smooth project execution.
Key Responsibilities
Research Production and Dissemination
- Conduct interviews, transcribe recordings, and facilitate consultation processes.
- Perform literature reviews and gather secondary data through online research and other methods.
- Develop analysis reports and produce written content that supports ongoing projects.
- Maintain organized research notes and documentation for transparency and reproducibility.
- Assist in developing research methodologies and update content on the CIVICUS Lens platform.
- Prepare social media kits to promote research outputs and publications.
Workflow and Intern Coordination
- Organize research workflows, monitor progress, and ensure timely delivery of outputs.
- Support the recruitment and onboarding of interns, assigning research tasks, and tracking their progress.
- Conduct regular check-ins with interns, providing mentorship, feedback, and professional development guidance.
- Maintain research databases and support administrative procedures aligned with organizational policies.
Inter-Team Coordination
- Act as a liaison between the Research team and other CIVICUS departments, including Communications and Design.
- Coordinate with the Communications team on dissemination strategies, social media content, and publication formatting.
- Collaborate with designers, translators, and editors to ensure research outputs meet quality standards and are accessible in multiple languages.
- Work with Diversity & Inclusion staff to ensure all publications reflect inclusive language standards.
- Support external collaboration with consultants, researchers, and civil society partners.
External Stakeholder Engagement
- Maintain ongoing communication with civil society stakeholders, research partners, and external experts.
- Organize consultation events, webinars, or conference sessions to foster dialogue and knowledge exchange.
- Manage databases of contacts and collaborations to facilitate ongoing engagement.
Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning
- Assist in preparing reports for donors and internal use, tracking progress and impact.
- Contribute to learning sessions and alliance-building activities to promote best practices and organizational growth.
- Support the organization of events and initiatives aimed at strengthening civil society networks.
Additional Responsibilities
- Uphold CIVICUS’s core values in all interactions and professional relationships.
- Represent the organization at external events, conferences, or meetings as needed.
- Participate in strategic planning and internal working groups, offering insights from research activities.
- Take on additional duties related to program management and research coordination as assigned.
Candidate Profile
Qualifications & Experience
- Master’s degree in social sciences, political science, international relations, or related fields.
- Fluency in English is essential; proficiency in Spanish (preferably a native speaker) is highly desirable.
- A minimum of five years of research experience, with at least two years in a coordination or supervisory capacity.
- Strong understanding of civil society networks and inter-governmental institutions.
- Proven experience in primary data collection, particularly through interviews, and working with diverse stakeholders.
- Demonstrated ability to manage small teams, mentor junior staff, and coordinate multiple tasks efficiently.
- Proficiency with project management tools, databases, and research platforms.
Preferred Skills & Knowledge
- Advanced degree or specialized experience in civil society issues.
- Additional language skills beyond Spanish and English.
- Background in translation, editing, or content management systems.
- Experience with digital research tools, data management, and online platform administration.
- Experience working with international institutions or civil society organizations in research or program support roles.
Application Details
The closing date for applications is July 16, 2025, at 11:59 PM SAST. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted approximately two weeks after the deadline to schedule interviews. Due to the volume of applications, CIVICUS appreciates each submission but will only respond to shortlisted candidates. Updates will be shared once the position is filled.
Join a Global Movement
This role offers an opportunity for a dedicated researcher to contribute to vital civil society issues at the international level while working remotely. CIVICUS values diversity, inclusion, and collaboration—qualities that drive their impactful work to empower civil society and strengthen democratic governance worldwide.
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by submitting their CV and supporting materials through the application portal. This is your chance to be part of a dynamic organization committed to social change and global development.
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