Research Expert on Peace, Security, Gender and DDR at International Alert

International Alert is one of the world's leading peacebuilding  organisations, with over 30 years of experience supporting communities,  advising governments, organisations and companies on how to build  peace. Alert works with people in conflict-affected and threatened areas  to make a positive difference for peace; to improve the substance and  implementation of international policies relevant to peacebuilding; and to  strengthen the peacebuilding sector.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Research Expert on Peace, Security, Gender and DDR

Location: Abuja, Nigeria (with travel to relevant regions as needed)
Duration: 3 months
Type of Contract: Consultancy
Reporting to: Project Manager with dotted lines to the Country Director, International Alert Nigeria
Collaborates with: Government partners, CSOs, donor agencies, and technical experts

Objective of the Assignment

• The Expert Researcher will coordinate the design and delivery of a high-quality research process to inform national and regional peacebuilding strategies in Nigeria.
• The role will focus on synthesizing existing efforts, identifying context-specific reintegration challenges and opportunities, and contributing to the design of policy and programmatic recommendations.

Scope of Work and Responsibilities
The consultant will be responsible for the following tasks:
Research Design and Strategy:

• Develop a comprehensive research framework and work plan in consultation with International Alert and key stakeholders.
• Define research questions and methodologies to explore issues such as conflict drivers, community reintegration, social cohesion, institutional capacities, and transitional support.

Data Collection and Analysis:

• Lead field-based and desk research across key locations 
• Supervise stakeholder interviews, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews with affected communities, civil society actors, government representatives, and programme beneficiaries.
• Analyze qualitative and quantitative data to identify trends, gaps, risks, and lessons learned across peacebuilding and reintegration efforts.

Reporting and Knowledge Generation:

• Produce high-quality analytical and policy-oriented reports, briefs, and presentations for diverse audiences.
• Synthesize findings to inform programming and advocacy strategies for International Alert and partners.
• Ensure all outputs reflect conflict sensitivity, gender responsiveness, and ethical research standards.

Stakeholder Engagement and Capacity Sharing:

• Facilitate consultations and validation sessions with stakeholders to share emerging findings and refine insights.
• Support capacity building of partner organizations or research assistants where necessary.
• Engage with relevant platforms, forums, and technical groups to share knowledge and inform coordinated responses.

Management and Supervision:

• The consultant will be contracted by International Alert and will report directly to the Project Manager, International Alert Nigeria. The consultant will work closely with project teams, external partners, and stakeholders as needed to deliver the assignment.

Deliverables

• Inception Report outlining research objectives, methodology, tools, and timelines
• Field Research Reports from selected states or regions
• Interim updates and presentations to stakeholders and partners
• Draft and Final Research Reports with clear findings and actionable recommendations
• Participation in validation and learning events
• Any other related task that may assigned base on the project objective

Qualifications and Experience
Education:

• Advanced Degree in Peace and Conflict Studies, Development Studies, Political Science, Sociology, Anthropology, or related field.

Experience:

• At least 7 years of experience conducting applied research in peace building, governance, development, or related sectors.
• Demonstrated experience working in conflict-affected environments, particularly within Nigeria or the Sahel region.
• Experience leading multi-stakeholder research projects and engaging with policy actors.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong qualitative and/or mixed-methods research skills
• Excellent analytical and report writing abilities
• Familiarity with participatory and gender-sensitive research approaches
• Strong communication and facilitation skills
• Fluency in English required

Application Closing Date
10th May, 2025.