Research Associate, EatSafe at the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN)

The Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) is a Swiss-based foundation launched at the UN in 2002 to tackle the human suffering caused by malnutrition. Working with both governments and businesses, we aim to transform food systems so that they deliver more nutritious food for all people. In particular, we aim to make healthier food choices more desirable, more available, and more affordable. GAIN’s mission is to advance nutrition outcomes by improving consumption of nutritious and safe food for all people, especially the most vulnerable to malnutrition.

We are seeking a candidate to support a new USAID funded food safety for nutrition project within the capacity below:

Job Title: Research Associate, EatSafe

Location: Abuja, Nigeria
Classification: D3 – Associate
Travel required: 30%

Overall purpose

The USAID-funded EatSafe: Evidence and Action Towards Safe, Nutritious Food program will be implemented by a consortium led by GAIN with the goal of generating evidence and knowledge of the potential of increased consumer demand for safe food to substantially improve the safety of nutritious foods in informal market settings in low- and middle-income countries.
The EatSafe Research Associate will contribute to and support research efforts, identify and liaise with local research counterparts, and provide technical support for project activities.

Tasks and responsibilities

Work closely with colleagues to implement the project’s research activities (e.g., finalization of research design; help design, format, and ensure translation of research tools; support training for data collection; supervise data collection activities; verify data quality)
Work closely with local research partners to ensure all research activities are completed as planned, on time, and with high quality
Ensure all research permissions are sought and received before commencement of research activities.
Work with research staff and Head of EatSafe Country Programme to support preparation of materials and planning for meetings and workshops
Support research translation and dissemination, including but not limited to preparation of presentations and abstracts, technical briefs, journal articles, case studies, success stories, and/or blogs.
Support in stakeholder engagement processes
Support the Head of EatSafe Country Programme to ensure that all project activities are completed according to the implementation timeframe and budget,
Support the Head of EatSafe Country Programme to implement strong project management processes, ensure regular communication with partners and colleagues, and ensure smooth and timely budget disbursements
Ensures that project research activities and outputs are integrated and aligned with other country programme projects and the country programme strategy

Key Organisational Relationships:

Reports to the Head of EatSafe Country Programme
Member of the GAIN Nigeria Country team and the global EatSafe and Knowledge Leadership teams
Works Finance, HR, IT and Legal teams in representative offices and country offices as required
Collaborates with project partners and other key external stakeholders as required

Job Requirements

Competencies:

Strong analytical and technical abilities
Knowledge of research techniques, including both qualitative and quantitative methods
Data analysis and reporting skills
Ability to use initiative, prioritize, multi-task, and work well under pressure to meet deadlines
Negotiation and advocacy skills
Ability to manage contractors to deliver high-quality results
Clear and systematic thinking that demonstrates good judgment, expert problem solving, and creativity
Strong communication skills in multicultural, multi-lingual environment
Flexible and goal oriented
IT literate, with excellent MS Office skills; experience with data analysis software such as Stata a plus
Skilled with organization, planning, and time management
Excellent communication skills (oral and written) – fluency in English required
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work alone and in a team setting

Experience:

Minimum of 3 to 5 years related experience
Experience in food safety research or related research in the food and agriculture space
Experience overseeing the implementation of research activities; experience with implementing both qualitative and quantitative research would be an advantage
Experience with diverse research methodologies
Experience with data analysis, visualization, and reporting
Experience developing successful partnerships
Deep understanding of issues related to food safety and quality in Nigeria

Education:

Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Food Safety, Microbiology, Nutrition, Public Health, Anthropology, Sociology, Economics, or a suitable equivalent.
A Postgraduate qualification (Master’s Degree) in a relevant discipline will be a strong advantage

Other requirements: