Research Assistant
Organizational Context
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Bangladesh is implementing research and technical initiatives to address climate change impacts and human mobility. Bangladesh is highly vulnerable to climate-induced hazards, leading to displacement and migration. IOM's work strengthens the evidence base for policy development and national planning. This Research Assistant role supports these critical assignments within the Disaster, Displacement, Response and Recovery (DDRRU) Unit, funded by the European Union.
Job Purpose
The Research Assistant will provide essential technical, research, coordination, and administrative support for IOM Bangladesh's initiatives on climate mobility. This role is crucial for the successful implementation of four key research assignments focused on understanding the implications of climate change, LDC graduation, and displacement on health and development in Bangladesh. The incumbent will contribute to ensuring research quality, facilitating stakeholder engagement, managing knowledge, and supporting day-to-day project operations. By assisting with data collection, analysis, report review, and event organization, the Research Assistant directly contributes to strengthening the evidence base and informing policy development for climate-resilient migration and displacement management in a highly vulnerable context.
Responsibilities
The Research Assistant will support the planning, implementation, and monitoring of four research assignments, assisting Senior Research Consultants. Key duties include aiding in the development of research methodologies and data collection tools, facilitating quantitative and qualitative data collection, management, and preliminary analysis. The role involves reviewing draft research reports and technical outputs for quality, compiling feedback from various stakeholders, and assisting in incorporating revisions. The Research Assistant will coordinate with consultants, government counterparts, UN agencies, and other partners, monitor progress against work plans, and support the preparation of progress reports and donor reporting inputs. Additionally, the role includes assisting in the preparation of concept notes and presentations, organizing meetings and workshops, preparing meeting minutes, and supporting the dissemination of research findings and knowledge management activities.
Work Experience
Experience working with government, international organizations, or development partners is required. Familiarity with Bangladesh's climate, health, and migration context is an asset. Previous experience with IOM or other UN system agencies is also considered an asset.
Skills
Proven ability to design and implement mixed-methods research. Proven track record of managing and supervising large-scale complex research undertaken by external consultants or firms. Strong analytical and report writing skills. Fluency in English and Bangla (written and spoken).