TITLE: Research and Learning Associate
UNIT: Nepal
REPORTS TO: Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning Manager
SUPERVISES: N/A

1. SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES

The Research and Learning Associate will provide support primarily to the DOS-supported JTIP Formative Research on Child Trafficking in Nepal project. S/he will work under the supervision of MERL Manager and support Program Officer to provide inputs to the research design, monitoring visits during data collection, and ensure the effective implementation of the dissemination plan. S/he will keep track of the implementation of activities as devised in the MERL plan and support other administrative tasks of the project.

2. RELATIONSHIPS

Internal
Contact all staff within the Foundation’s Kathmandu and satellite offices.

External
Regular contact with grantees, independent contractors, government officials and agencies in Nepal, bilateral and multi-lateral development agencies, business sector and civil society organizations, professional organizations, and academic and other local institutions.

3. REQUIREMENTS

Education
Bachelor's degree in development studies, international relations, public policy, social sciences, economics, law, or other relevant disciplines.

Experience
Minimum of three years of relevant experience in conducting research or executing research projects with proficiency in data analysis and report writing. Experience in both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection in the field related to anti-trafficking, child labor, and any research involving survivors of trafficking will be an advantage. A background in project monitoring, evaluation, and learning will be considered an asset.

Other

Demonstrated knowledge of Nepal’s political, economic, and social context. Proven understanding of counter human trafficking programs and efforts, along with awareness of child labor issues within the context of Nepal. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills in English and Nepali language, and ability to engage harmoniously with individuals from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds, particularly adult survivors, and vulnerable groups. Proficiency in using SPSS/Excel and NVivo for research analysis is preferred. Willingness to travel to districts across the country where relevant. Demonstrated ability to work effectively both independently and within a team setting.

4. JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Programs Support and Management

• Support the project team to track all research related activities implemented by research partners including both primary and secondary data collection, analysis, and dissemination.
• Lead the process of monitoring all research related work of research partners and ensure their work meets quality standards as per The Foundation’s requirement.
• Support research design, implementation and maintain the database of program progress as per indicators and track the targets, achievements, and learning targets.
• Support synthesis of learning and distill into appropriate, targeted knowledge products.
• Conduct regular field visits to assess the performance and compliance by local partners and share findings with the team.
• Collect and analyze data from internal and external sources, ensuring data accuracy and reliability.
• Draft periodic reports either for the purpose of Foundation’s internal reporting or for donor’s reporting requirements.
• Provides program and administrative support for preparation and updating of work plans and draft letters of grants, letter of contracts for related partners, presentation materials, speech, etc.
• Support administrative and logistical assistance to the JTIP team, i.e. travel arrangements, events/ training/ workshop organizing and management.
• Assist in the publication of any materials that will be produced by the project and partners and ensure all communication compliance with The Foundation and Donor.
• Ensure effective integration of Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion in research design, analysis, and dissemination.
• Compliance with all Foundation and donor policies, procedures and practices when carrying out all activities.

Financial Management

• Assist Program Officers and Finance & Grants Unit in conducting due diligence to potential partners/ grantees and ensure that all due diligence documents are completed/ submitted by potential partners/ grantees.
• Support to manage the JTIP team’s filing system (i.e. consultants’ contracts, grant agreements, grant/ contract amendments) both in electronic and hard copy format.
• Following Foundation policies and practices, ensure that all financial documentation related to project activities is prepared, updated and settled, including supporting documents.

Representation

• Participate in meetings and events with development partners, governments, and civil society organizations as assigned.
• Contribute to articles, written materials, and documentation for publication.
• Participate in Foundation meetings and other relevant professional forums and events.

Other Responsibilities

• Work closely with the communications team to develop and maintain the program’s outreach activities to enhance its visibility and other activities as may be necessary.
• Provide support to other on-going programs and activities of the Foundation as may be necessary.
• Other duties as assigned by the Country Representative or designate.

Applicants are requested to read through the job descriptions above for the position. Job shall be applied through the Foundation Online Job Application form by December 17, 2023. Please attach your Curricular Vitae (CV) along with a cover letter describing suitability for the position in the Job Application form. In case of any technical difficulties, queries can be forwarded to [email protected]. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Telephone calls will not be entertained.

The Asia Foundation is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive office environment. Women and people from economically and socially excluded groups are encouraged to apply.