Header

Director I, Research

FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Our staff includes experts in health, education, nutrition, environment, economic development, civil society, gender, youth, research and technology — creating a unique mix of capabilities to address today's interrelated development challenges. FHI 360 serves more than 70 countries and all U.S. states and territories. We are currently seeking qualified candidates for the position of: Director, Research.

Description:

FHI 360 is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Director, Research for an anticipated USAID-funded global SBCC procurement to support countries in achieving desired improvements in health and development outcomes, including increasing demand for family planning (FP) satisfied with modern contraception; ending preventable child and maternal deaths (EPCMD); achieving and maintaining an AIDS-Free Generation (AFG); and achieving a malaria-free world . The Research Director will oversee and manage a portfolio of research studies and research and evaluation activities conducted in support of operations research.
Availability of this position is contingent upon release of a solicitation by USAID and recruitment is contingent upon successful award of the project to FHI 360 and final USAID approval of the candidate. This position will be based in Washington, DC.

Job Summary / Responsibilities:

  • Lead the development of an overall project agenda for knowledge generation and research that focuses on key behavioral and social change issues related to HIV/AIDS, RMNCH, FP, Malaria and other health topics.
  • Lead a collaborative process to conceptualize a portfolio of basic, translational and applied research activities that will include both quantitative and qualitative studies.
  • Provide overall management and oversight of the research portfolio, research activities leaders, and other research staff, including:
  • Lead the development and direct the implementation of the knowledge generation activities in the work plan, and the reporting on the appropriate sections of the scheduled and unscheduled Project Reports.
  • Review and advise on research design, implementation, analysis and report preparation and ensure that research adheres to quality and ethical standards.
  • Lead and oversee the design and the development of appropriate data collection methods and tools with particular attention to social network, social system, behavioral economics approaches, and other social methods and tools.
  • Lead research and implementation teams to identify, prioritize and plan technical assistance/support to regional research partners and consultants.
  • In collaboration with the Capacity Strengthening Advisor, develop research training approaches to attract, develop and retain research professionals at institutions at the regional and country level.
  • Lead translation of research results into implications for communication and program activities.

Qualifications:

  • Master’s Degree or its International Equivalent required (PhD strongly preferred) in Knowledge/Information Services, Communications, Education, Environment, Health, Behavioral, Life/Social Sciences International Development, Human Development or Related Field.
  • Minimum 10-15 years of experience in primary research, including work experience in developing country settings, particularly in Africa.
  • Minimum 10 years of experience managing/directing research or project teams.
  • Expertise in SBCC research and a range of health areas.
  • Experience in applied research on family planning/reproductive health and/or HIV/AIDS.
  • Demonstrated success in collaborative research.
  • Experience in research capacity-building preferred.
  • Experience working on USAID projects and with NGOs and other donor/international organizations preferred.
  • Must be able to travel approximately 15%.
This job description summarizes the main duties of the job. It neither prescribes nor restricts the exact tasks that may be assigned to carry out these duties. This document should not be construed in any way to represent a contract of employment. Management reserves the right to review and revise this document at any time.
We offer competitive compensation and an outstanding benefit package. Please click here to visit FHI 360's Career Center for a list of all open positions.
FHI 360 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. FHI 360 is an equal employment and affirmative action employer whereby we do not engage in practices that discriminate against any person employed or seeking employment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information or any other status or characteristic protected under applicable law.