Researcher | Kenya

The ISS seeks a researcher to join a dynamic team in Nairobi working on East Africa and the Great Lakes region. The project aims to improve national and regional capacity on conflict prevention, human rights and the rule of law. It strives to enhance democracy and governance in East Africa and the Great Lakes.
 
The researcher will build networks in the region and develop conflict prevention and mitigation policy recommendations. The researcher will be based in the ISS’ Nairobi office and report to the project manager.
 
Overview of duties
Initiate, plan and undertake primary and secondary research
Disseminate research results in a timely and relevant way to specific audiences through writing, public speaking, briefings, media interviews and policy forums
Maintain relationships with partners, governments, regional and international organisations and civil society organisations
Convene seminars, dialogues, closed briefings and roundtables and present research findings at ISS events and other relevant forums
Help write the annual project report on peace and security in East Africa
Help identify new funding opportunities, draft concept notes and contribute to the development of new projects
Overview of requirements
Master’s degree in a relevant social science discipline such as international relations, journalism, political science, anthropology, development studies, conflict and peace studies, strategic and security studies, law or a related field
Minimum of three years relevant experience in the peace and security field as a researcher, policymaker or journalist
Good knowledge of African governance and security challenges and policy frameworks, and a particular interest in conflict analysis, early warning, conflict prevention, peacebuilding and dialogue
Good networking and interpersonal skills, and the ability to work in partnership with international and continental organisations, governments and civil society
Knowledge of the workings of the AU and other regional intergovernmental structures
Good written and verbal communication skills supported by a track record of relevant publications, media commentary and public speaking at international forums
Knowledge of project planning, monitoring and evaluation
Excellent English language skills
Ability to work under pressure to meet tight deadlines
Willingness to travel at short notice
The contract will be for three years, and may be renewed subject to ISS’ requirements, funding and satisfactory performance. A competitive salary is offered.
Email your application to Rekha Valabh at pretoriajobs@issafrica.org. Applicants must provide a cover letter, detailed CV, and recent writing sample, including at least three contactable referees. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
 
Closing date: 16 December 2022
 
The ISS values diversity, professional integrity and innovation in the workplace. Female applicants are especially encouraged to apply.