Senior Research Fellow, Transnational Threats and International Crime

The ISS seeks an experienced, dynamic and committed Senior Research Fellow to manage and implement research projects on counter-terrorism, preventing violent extremism, organised crime and international criminal justice. The Senior Research Fellow will design and carry out research projects, mentor research staff, and monitor the successful implementation of projects in terms of their quality, value and impact.Applicants need a thorough understanding of human security in Africa and must have previous experience in managing multiple research projects across different thematic areas. They should be passionate about understanding organised crime, terrorism, extremism and international crime, and how to solve these problems.

Applicants must be highly motivated, independent thinkers who understand how to plan, implement and disseminate research results to achieve policy impact.

Overview of duties

· Shape and monitor the implementation of complex research projects, including:

o Topic selection – relevance of research topics

o Proposed methodology – feasibility, innovation, rigour, ethics, conflict sensitivity, gender mainstreaming

o Analytical framework and data analysis

o Structure of research paper – coheherence of content, logical flow, key findings and recommendations

o Dissemination of results to target audiences

· Liaise with the Programme Peer Review Committee on content matters and peer review feedback

· Support the Programme Head on monitoring and evaluation of research impact

· Provide first review and content check of monthly web publications

· Undertake ethical primary and secondary research and analysis, develop policy recommendations based on the findings, and actively communicate results to ISS stakeholders through written products, verbal communication and media commentary

Requirements

· Master’s degree in relevant social sciences discipline, PhD will be advantageous

· At least eight years relevant work experience in a policy, research, government or other relevant professional environment

· Advanced knowledge of human security in Africa specifically related to transnational threats

· Single authored publications record

· Experience in organising and participating (i.e. delivered presentations) in public and closed events, conferences, training sessions, facilitation

· Knowledge of and relationships with government and non-government institutions

· Understand and have practical experience of monitoring and evaluation

· Excellent networking and interpersonal skills, in particular the ability to work in constructive partnerships with international and continental organisations, governments and civil society

· Excellent research and analytical skills

· Excellent English verbal and written communication skills; French will be an advantage

· Self motivated, able to work independently, under pressure and to deadline

The contract will be for two years, and may be renewed subject to programme requirements, funding and satisfactory performance. A competitive salary is offered.