Researcher, Humanitarian Operations

Reports to (role)

• Head of Centre for Operational Research and Experience

What we do

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) works worldwide to provide humanitarian assistance to people affected by conflict and armed violence. We take action in response to emergencies and at the same time promote respect for international humanitarian law. We are an independent and neutral organization, and our mandate stems essentially from the Geneva Conventions of 1949. We work closely with National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and with their International Federation in order to ensure a concerted, rational and rapid humanitarian response to the needs of the victims of armed conflict or any other situation of internal violence. We direct and coordinate the international activities conducted in these situations.

In 2018, the ICRC created a new unit, the Centre for Operational Research and Experience (the CORE), to harness the data, expertise, analysis and experience produced across the ICRC to bolster its protection work and provide substance to anchor the ICRC’s diplomatic and policy initiatives in operational realities.

Purpose

• The CORE is seeking a Researcher on Humanitarian Operations to:
• Conduct high quality research to stimulate internal reflection and for publication.
• Develop the CORE’s architecture to support and facilitate evidence-based research across the ICRC.
• Provide expert advice on formulating research questions, data sources, methodology, critical reflection, and the uptake of research findings in the ICRC.

Accountabilities & Functional responsibilities

The Operational Researcher works under the direct supervision of the Head of the CORE Unit. His/Her responsibilities entail:

• Conduct high-quality, evidence-based research in complex humanitarian settings.

• Design research projects with policy and operational contexts in mind; incorporate quantitative and qualitative methodologies as appropriate within research aims and practical requirements

• Advise other research initiatives on data quality and fitness for research purposes and identify opportunities for evidence-gathering.

• Organise and participate in a research platform across ICRC departments to stimulate reflection on research practices.

• Develop the CORE’s architecture that supports and facilitates evidence-informed research.

• Create research partnerships to ensure effective work and mutual benefit, including with student researchers.

• Produce analytical material and data visualisation

• Provide policy and research analysis to enhance corporate understanding and decision-making; discuss linkages between policy and operational issues/knowledge

Certifications / Education required

• Master's degree with strong component on research methodology. 
• PhD an asset.
• Fluent command of English. French and other languages a plus.
• Computer proficiency.

Professional Experience required

• At least 10 years' overall experience.
• Proven experience in undertaking quality research in complex operational environments in the field
• Proven experience managing consulting contracts
• Proven experience in writing and publishing.
• Publication of research.

Desired profile and skills

• Strongly motivated by humanitarian work
• Able to work under pressure in a potentially dangerous environment (in contexts where the ICRC intervenes)

• Demonstrated ability to conduct high quality research, leading to publication.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external interlocutors.

• Ability to work in a principled and pragmatic matter to ensure project work is aligned with the policies and operational realities of a large scale humanitarian organisation.

• Ability to work independently.

• Team player with strong communication and intercultural skills.

Additional Information

• Location: Geneva
• Type of contract: Open-ended
• Activity rate: 100%
• Estimated start date:  Sept 2019
• Application deadline:12.05.2019

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