The focus of this short-term seasonal hire is on phase 1 of the development of a CRS research strategy and roadmap, by gathering information from CRS’s peer international non-governmental organization on their research strategies, conducting an analysis of the current status of research at CRS, and interviewing CRS staff.
Background
CRS’s university engagement and research sub-unit is based in CRS’s Monitoring Evaluation Accountability and Learning (MEAL) unit which offers opportunities to strengthen the quality of our programs and accountability to the people we serve, sharpen skills, deepen experience, innovate and lead sustainable development work. CRS has been extensively involved in operational and evidence-building research working with universities and research institutes around the world. Our engagement with researchers has enabled us to design research projects that have allowed us to deliver more effective programs, by establishing a stronger evidence base about what works and find innovative solutions to seemingly intractable problems. And our research projects have helped us to deliver better services with greater efficiency in a more sustainable fashion. Our experiences partnering with universities and research institutes to conduct high quality applied research have led us to test game-changing new approaches that can be scaled up to bring about transformation in the lives of the poor.
The seasonal hire will be expected to conduct internet searches and reach out to peer organizations to gather information on their research strategies; gather information on CRS research not yet listed in the university engagement and research sharepoint page (an active MS form survey started in summer 2023) and through Gateway research records in order to read, summarize, and analyze CRS’s current and past research foci; and interview CRS staff regarding current collaborations with research institutions, data use, and future research road map. The summer hire will have a chance to contribute to the development of a CRS research strategy and roadmap.
Key Job Responsibilities:
Self-directed remote work based on weekly activity plan, adhering to agreed upon deadlines
Weekly check-in meetings with Senior Advisor for University Engagement and Research
Research Strategies of our peers
- Communicate closely with the Senior Advisor for University Engagement and Research as to progress and seek clarifications and input on process and progress.
- Internet searches for research strategies (or if no formal strategy, types of research collaborations, foci, and type (methods, evaluation …) of peer organizations
- PhoneMS teams interviews of peer organization research advisors discussing strategies, partnerships, … (development of interview questions with senior advisor)
Current research conducted at CRS
- Updating MS Form survey results of current research in University Engagement and Research Sharepoint page by sending out survey and data entry
- Promoting entries into Gateway research records by writing a job aid
- Reading, summarizing, and analysis of current research at CRS (sector foci, countries that have been conducting lots of research and trends in type of research methods, use of consultants versus researchers from universities or research centers, funding sources)
- Key informant interviews on the direction research has taken recently at CRS (development of interview questions with senior advisor)
Data esearch Use
- PhoneMS Teams Interviews of CRS research and learning advisors (development of interview questions with senior advisor)
- One particular focus will be on the USAID Resilience and Food Security Awards (RFSAs) as they have a Refine and Implement in the first year where research is expected to influence the activities of the following years.
Basic Qualifications
- Bachelors degree
- Recent graduate or current MA or PhD student enrolled in an international development, environmental, humanitarian, agricultural, geography, or related academic program.
- Completed coursework or experience in international development
- Strong research and analytical skills
- Work experience with an INGO (preferred)
- Interview experience (preferred)
- Fluency in English (French and Spanish language skills would be an asset)
- Strong organizational and writing skills
Agency REDI Competencies (for all CRS Staff):
- Personal Accountability – Consistently takes responsibility for one’s own actions.
- Acts with Integrity - Consistently models values aligned with CRS Guiding Principles and mission. Is considered honest.
- Builds and Maintains Trust - Shows consistency between words and actions.
- Collaborates with Others – Works effectively in intercultural and diverse teams.
- Open to Learn – Seeks out experiences that may change perspective or provide an opportunity to learn new things.
NOTE: All interested applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. at the time of application.
CRS' talent acquisition procedures reflect our commitment to protecting children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation. EOE/M/F/D/V – CRS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
***Our Catholic identity is at the heart of our mission and operations. Catholic Relief Services carries out the commitment of the Bishops of the United States to assist the poor and vulnerable overseas. We welcome as a part of our staff people of all faiths and secular traditions who share our values and our commitment to serving those in need.
Disclaimer: This job description is not an exhaustive list of the skill, effort, duties, and responsibilities associated with the position.
Note: All positions requiring residence or frequent travel outside their home country must undergo and clear a pre-employment medical examination.
CRS' talent acquisition procedures reflect our commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all people - especially children and vulnerable adults - to live free from abuse and harm.
EOE/M/F/D/V - CRS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. (For all US and International positions)
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