Research Specialist (Education) at UNICEF

• Under the guidance and general supervision of the Research Manager, Education (Level 4), the Research Specialist - Education will support implementation and coordination of research activities in Eastern and Southern Africa.
• The research specialist will provide technical research support to countries in Eastern and Southern Africa region in close collaboration with the Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office (ESARO) including in the development and uptake of research and evidence into programming, planning and policy.
• support coordination and research activities for ongoing research programmes active in the region including the Data Must Speak research, Women in Learning Leadership and the new large scale implementation research programme
• act as a focal point for UNICEF Innocenti in the region and as a key resource person for the What Works Hub for Global Education (WWHGE) strategic partnership, engaging with evidence in education partners at the regional and country levels, and supporting the Research Manager, Education (Systems Strengthening) with partnership engagement at the global level.

Summary of key functions/accountabilities:

• Research Planning and Coordination
• Oversight of Research Designs, Methods and Analysis
• Research Technical Support and Capacity Building
• Knowledge Management, Evidence Uptake and Partnerships.

To qualify as an advocate for every child you will have:

Minimum requirements:

• Education: An advanced university degree in one of the following fields is required: education, economics, psychology, sociology or another relevant technical field.
• Work Experience: At least 5 years of relevant professional experience in education research, social science research, education programming or related fields. 
• Strong experience in statistical analysis utilizing large data sets, is required.
• Demonstrated people management skills and the ability to forge and manage partnerships.
• Proven experience drafting quality research outputs for different stakeholders and audiences is required.
• Experience working in a development setting, managing programmes and / or research is required.
• Knowledge of econometric models and identification strategies to test impact of programmes required.
• Excellent written and oral communication skill.