RESPONSIBILITIES
Research planning and design involve establishing clear objectives, defining methodologies, and outlining timelines to ensure comprehensive and effective studies. This process requires identifying key research questions, selecting appropriate data collection methods, and designing robust sampling strategies to achieve valid and reliable results. Additionally, it includes coordinating with stakeholders, allocating resources efficiently, and addressing ethical considerations to maintain integrity and compliance. Effective planning ensures that research projects are structured, measurable, and aligned with organizational goals while fostering innovation and evidence-based decision-making.
Act as the central coordinating authority for the four-year Sexual and Reproductive Health Randomized Controlled Trial (SRH RCT) program, offering strategic leadership to ensure all research initiatives progress in strict adherence to the project’s defined objectives, the established study protocol, IMPACT research cycle principles, and donor stipulations.
Direct the development and enhancement of yearly data collection cycles, integrating quantitative methods—such as survey-based instruments—and qualitative approaches, including in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, while upholding methodological precision and alignment with the randomized controlled trial framework across both country settings.
Ensure data collection tools—including quantitative questionnaires and qualitative guides—are contextualized, accurately translated, and rigorously piloted for each round before deployment in Somalia and South Sudan.
Before the initiation of each data collection cycle, all research designs, tools, and protocols must undergo validation by IMPACT HQ and the appropriate ethics review bodies.
Conducting research implementation involves executing and overseeing projects to ensure they are carried out effectively and in alignment with organizational objectives. This role requires meticulous attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. Responsibilities include coordinating with stakeholders, collecting and analyzing data, and producing comprehensive reports to support decision-making processes. Candidates should possess a degree in a relevant field, prior experience in research methodologies, and proficiency in data management tools. Excellent communication and organizational skills are essential to facilitate collaboration and maintain project timelines.
Deliver strategic leadership and technical expertise to in-country teams in Somalia and South Sudan, who serve as the principal data collection leads in their respective contexts, by offering guidance on enumerator recruitment and training, field supervision protocols, and quality assurance systems.
Design and implement robust quality assurance frameworks for each data collection cycle, incorporating back-check protocols, rigorous data audit procedures, and real-time monitoring of data quality metrics to maintain uniform standards across both countries.
Lead the design of enumerator training for every data collection cycle in close partnership with in-country teams, ensuring all enumerators are fully prepared to implement both quantitative surveys and qualitative data collection methods with strict adherence to the study protocol.
Ensure all data is gathered, organized, and maintained in strict compliance with IMPACT Data Management Guidelines, relevant data protection policies, and the ethical standards outlined in the study protocol.
Monitor data collection progress in both countries, proactively identifying and addressing challenges, methodological inconsistencies, or deviations, and escalating issues to the line manager and IMPACT HQ when necessary.
We specialize in transforming raw data into meaningful insights through meticulous analysis and develop comprehensive product drafts to ensure clarity and precision in documentation. This role requires a keen eye for detail, proficiency in data interpretation, and the ability to draft structured reports that align with organizational standards. Candidates must possess strong analytical skills and experience in creating detailed product specifications, ensuring accuracy and consistency across all deliverables.
Deliver thorough review and support for analysis and outputs prepared by our research partner to ensure accuracy, coherence, and alignment with project objectives.
Beyond the randomized controlled trial and sexual and reproductive health–focused initiative, deliver specialized analytical support and ad hoc analysis tailored to the operational needs of the South Sudan and Somalia missions. Additionally, provide strategic regional analysis and assistance for the Horn of Africa and East Africa regions to enhance comprehensive oversight and decision-making.
We are seeking a dedicated professional to cultivate and nurture relationships with donors and strategic partners. This role involves identifying potential collaborators, fostering mutually beneficial agreements, and maintaining ongoing communication to ensure long-term support. The ideal candidate will have experience in relationship management, philanthropy, or nonprofit partnerships, along with strong interpersonal and negotiation skills. Responsibilities include developing engagement strategies, coordinating events, and reporting on partnership performance. A commitment to fostering meaningful connections and driving sustainable growth is essential.
Act as the main point of contact for the donor regarding IMPACT initiatives, delivering consistent progress reports on research developments, key milestones, obstacles faced, and insights gained throughout both country programs.
Serve as the primary liaison for donor reports and research updates, guaranteeing their precision, clarity, and punctual submission while accurately showcasing the contributions of both the in-country teams in Somalia and South Sudan.
Conduct periodic project review meetings with the donor and key partners, developing and delivering presentations and supporting documents to foster strategic discussions regarding emerging findings, study modifications, and programmatic implications.
Foster robust collaborative partnerships with implementing partners across Somalia and South Sudan by aligning research initiatives with partner programs and ensuring the strategic dissemination and practical application of findings.
Knowledge Generation and Learning
Document the insights gained from the research program, focusing on Age-related sensitivities, the implementation of RCTs in fragile contexts, mixed-methods approaches, and longitudinal data collection, thereby enriching IMPACT’s comprehensive knowledge repository.
Maintain comprehensive documentation of all external engagements, ensuring timely communication of such information to both the line manager and relevant colleagues.
We oversee the entire project lifecycle from initiation to completion, ensuring timely delivery within budget and scope. This role requires meticulous planning, coordination, and execution of project phases while adhering to established methodologies and best practices. Key responsibilities include defining project objectives, allocating resources, mitigating risks, and maintaining clear communication among stakeholders. Candidates must demonstrate strong organizational skills, proficiency in project management tools, and the ability to adapt to evolving project demands. Experience in similar roles and familiarity with industry standards are essential for success in this position.
Ensure strict adherence to project cycle management protocols throughout every stage—from initial planning and execution to ongoing monitoring and final reporting.
Monitor deliverables and timelines for all research outputs and data collection cycles in both countries, promptly escalating any potential delivery risks to the line manager.
Prepare narrative sections focusing on research activities and findings for inclusion in donor reporting.
Attend project initiation, milestone review, and closure meetings as necessary to ensure alignment and progress tracking.
Deliver additional assignments as directed by the line manager to support operational objectives.
Safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring robust data security measures are critical components of this role. The position demands strict adherence to confidentiality protocols and the implementation of advanced protection strategies to prevent unauthorized access or breaches. Candidates must demonstrate a thorough understanding of data privacy regulations and possess the expertise to apply them effectively in all operational contexts.
The SAO will uphold the highest standards of confidentiality regarding all data gathered and associated processes, strictly adhering to IMPACT’s data protection policy, relevant research ethics guidelines, and established standard operating procedures. He or she will proactively implement safeguards to prevent the unauthorized disclosure of any information or data belonging to IMPACT, its partners, or collected during the course of the assignment.
REQUIREMENTS
Essential
Strong academic credentials are required, ideally with a Master’s degree in Public Health, Social Science, Development Studies, or a closely related field.
Seeking candidates with a minimum of four years of professional experience in humanitarian or development research and programming, ideally including direct involvement in Somalia and/or South Sudan. Proficiency in overseeing complex, multi-year, multi-country research initiatives is considered advantageous.
Applicants must possess verifiable expertise in sexual and reproductive health within humanitarian or fragile settings, encompassing maternal health, family planning, and gender-based violence interventions.
A strong background in designing and overseeing mixed-methods research cycles within humanitarian or low-resource environments is essential. Candidates with direct experience in randomized control trial (RCT) design and execution will be prioritized. Familiarity with longitudinal study frameworks and multiphase data collection processes is particularly advantageous.
Proven fluency in both written and spoken English, with a strong track record of crafting meticulously researched reports, donor communications, briefing documents, and presentations tailored to varied audiences—from highly specialized experts to general stakeholders.
Demonstrates a strong capacity for autonomous work, overseeing and guiding in-country research teams remotely, while effectively managing intricate, multi-stakeholder research projects.
Proven capability to navigate and thrive in multicultural environments, particularly in challenging security situations. Demonstrated success collaborating with local research teams and community stakeholders across varied geographical and cultural contexts.
Proficiency in developing both quantitative and qualitative data collection instruments using KoboCollect, OK, or comparable platforms is essential.
Desirable
Proficiency in Somalia and/or South Sudan, with a strong grasp of the humanitarian coordination framework and critical stakeholders within these environments.
Proficiency in designing and managing research initiatives involving vulnerable groups—such as displaced individuals, women and girls, and adolescents—along with a strong grasp of ethical guidelines applicable to humanitarian research environments.
With expertise in fostering relationships with donors, you will play a pivotal role in advancing research programs by crafting comprehensive reports and actively contributing to technical review meetings. Your contributions will ensure clear communication of project progress, strategic alignment with donor expectations, and the advancement of research objectives through informed, collaborative discussions.
Individuals should possess a robust applied statistics background alongside practical experience in constructing sample frames.
We offer a competitive salary along with a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional and personal well-being. This includes health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as retirement savings options such as a 401(k) with company matching. Paid time off, flexible work arrangements, and professional development opportunities are also provided to foster growth and work-life balance.
This role offers a gross monthly salary ranging from 2,580 to 2,640 CHF, along with a supplementary living allowance of 300 USD. Please note that IMPACT adheres to a structured salary framework, which aligns compensation with both the position’s grade and the employee’s educational background. Additionally, a location-based security and/or isolation premium is applied to acknowledge the challenging living and working conditions in certain postings, where operational demands exceed those in standard environments.
Accommodation is offered in the guesthouse or, for longer-term engagements, a housing allowance is provided.
Swiss private pension fund coverage, provided through Swiss Life, representing approximately 9.975% of the employee’s gross salary, is included, along with comprehensive health insurance, life insurance benefits, and repatriation assistance.
Flight tickets and visa fees are covered biannually, with all in-country travel expenses and professional costs fully reimbursed.
Assistance with luggage transportation, ranging from 20 to 100 kilograms, is provided, with the specific weight limit determined by the duration of the contract. Additionally, comprehensive luggage and personal property insurance coverage is included.
You will receive 36 days of annual leave each year, in addition to all public holidays observed in the country of assignment. Family or compassionate leave will also be granted where applicable.
A three-day induction at IMPACT Initiatives’ Geneva headquarters will be followed by a week-long pre-departure training program at ACTED’s Paris headquarters, which incorporates a four-day in-situ security training session.
IMPACT is committed to fostering a psychologically safe work environment, and its health insurance plan includes coverage for psychosocial counseling, with an annual allowance of up to 1,000.
Applicants must enroll in the IMPACT Initiatives Research Foundational Learning Program within the initial three months of their contract.
Qualifications
MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
4 years
