Lead Research Officer - Volunteer

We are currently recruiting for a Lead Research Officer who plays a central role in designing, managing, and delivering high‑quality research projects that address social and environmental challenges of the organisation.

What difference will you make?

This role strengthens our research capacity by ensuring that our work is grounded in evidence and aligned with community needs. A dedicated Lead Research Officer enhances the quality, credibility, and impact of our research outputs, enabling better decision‑making, stronger funding proposals, and more effective programmes. Their leadership directly supports our mission of driving sustainable development and social change.

What are we looking for?

Key Responsibilities And Deliverables

• Design and implement research projects aligned with organisational goals.
• Identify and recruit stakeholders, including community members, experts, and policymakers.
• Conduct literature reviews and meta‑analyses to synthesise existing knowledge.
• Support the development of research proposals and external funding applications.
• Collect, analyse, and interpret qualitative and quantitative data.
• Communicate research findings to stakeholders, policymakers, and the public.
• Collaborate with the research team to ensure projects meet objectives and timelines.
  
  

Deliverables include

• Well‑designed research studies with clear methodologies.
• Comprehensive literature reviews and evidence syntheses.
• High‑quality data analysis and interpretation.
• Clear, accessible research reports and presentations.
• Stakeholder‑informed insights and recommendations.
• Contributions to funding proposals and research planning.
  
  

Essential Requirements (must-haves)

Experience and knowledge

• Master’s or Ph.D. degree in a relevant field (e.g., social sciences, environmental science, public health).
• Minimum two years of research experience or equivalent practical experience.
• Demonstrable passion for social enterprise, sustainable development, and the volunteer sector.
  
  

Core Skills And Competencies

• Strong knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to communicate complex findings to diverse audiences.
• Experience working with community members, experts, and policymakers.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  
  

Digital Workplace Requirements

Basic digital literacy and reliable internet connection

Proficiency with

• Gmail and Calendar
• Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides)
• Video conferencing and messaging tools
  
  

Desirable Skills And Experience (nice-to-haves)

• Postdoctoral research experience.
• Experience with data‑analysis software (SPSS, R, STATA).
• Familiarity with agile methodology.
• Experience working in remote or digital‑first teams.
  
  

Remote

What will you be doing?

We need the volunteer to lead the design, implementation, and delivery of research projects that inform our programmes and strategic decisions. The Lead Research Officer will guide the research team, ensure methodological rigour, analyse data, and translate findings into actionable insights for stakeholders, funders, and community partners.