Research Consultant at Aga Khan University (AKU)

Job Purpose/Summary 

The consultant will be on call within this period to support the GSMC’s AGECS research agenda and activities – two research projects, two book projects and case studies and the attendant research related activities.

Responsibilities

• Under the supervision of the AGECS research team, conduct comprehensive literature reviews and compile relevant research materials including ethics clearance and research permit applications.
• Assist in the design and implementation of research methodologies.
• Manage the data collection process and assist in the analysis and interpretation of data from various sources.
• Prepare and organize research notes, summaries, and reports.
• Assist in the writing, editing, and formatting of research papers and book chapters.
• Coordinate with project team members to ensure timely completion of tasks.
• Manage project documentation and maintain accurate records.
• Track monitoring and evaluation framework indicators for the research subcommittee, including data on stakeholder engagements, downloads, mentions and performance of research output. Keep up to date record of all these data in a simple and understandable format.
• Assist in preparing presentations and materials for conferences and meetings.
• Perform administrative tasks related to the research project as needed.
• Any other responsibility assigned by the Associate Dean.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Media and Communications or a related field (e.g., Journalism, Public Relations, Digital Media, Communication Studies).
• Prior experience in research, preferably within the fields of media, communications, or related areas. 
• Publications of reports or academic articles (Evidence of publication needed).
• Experience with academic writing and familiarity with publishing standards and requirements.
• Strong research and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in qualitative and/or quantitative research methodologies.
• Familiarity with research tools and software (e.g., NVivo, Atlas.ti, SPSS, or similar tools for data analysis).
• Competence in using digital tools and platforms for research and communication (e.g., social media analysis tools, content management systems).
• Understanding of current trends, theories, and practices in media and communications.
• Knowledge of the academic and professional landscape of media and communications.
• Technical skills related to media production (e.g., video editing, graphic design, web development) may be beneficial given that this is a media school.