Research and Publications Analyst
Organizational Context
The Agrifood Economics and Policy Division (ESA) conducts economic research and policy analysis to support the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. ESA provides evidence-based support to national, regional, and global policy processes related to food and agricultural policies, agribusiness, rural transformation, food security, nutrition, resilience, bioeconomy, and climate-smart agriculture. The division leads the production of two FAO flagship publications: The State of Food and Agriculture (SOFA) and The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI).
Job Purpose
The incumbent will support the preparation of The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) report by conducting research, assisting with coordination, communication, and data management. This role will contribute to the dissemination and outreach activities for the SOFI 2026 edition and provide analytical groundwork for the SOFI 2027 edition. The position is crucial for ensuring the timely and effective production of these key global reports on food security and nutrition.
Responsibilities
Conduct systematic literature reviews on food security, nutrition, healthy diets, agrifood systems, and related topics for SOFI 2027. Prepare literature summaries, evidence-synthesis notes, and identify research gaps and policy issues. Support the creation of outreach and dissemination materials for SOFI 2026, including presentations, factsheets, and web content. Compile feedback and media coverage post-SOFI 2026 launch and coordinate with communication teams and partners. Assist in organizing meetings and support inter-agency coordination by preparing agendas, minutes, and action trackers. Manage and validate datasets related to food security and nutrition indicators, performing basic statistical processing and quality checks. Prepare tables, figures, and metadata, maintaining organized data repositories.
Work Experience
A minimum of one year of relevant professional experience is required. This experience should be in areas such as research, evidence synthesis, data analysis, or communications, specifically related to food security and nutrition. For those with a Bachelor's degree, two additional years of professional experience beyond the minimum requirement are necessary.
Skills
Proficiency in conducting structured literature reviews and synthesizing scientific and policy evidence. Demonstrated quantitative and data management skills, including data cleaning, quality checks, and preparation of analytical materials. Strong drafting and communication abilities for both technical and non-technical audiences. Ability to organize workflows, track deliverables, and support cross-team coordination. Experience in food security, nutrition, or agrifood systems is desirable. Knowledge of another FAO official language is an asset.