National Researcher and Anthropologist (office based with possible travel)

Organizational Context

UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. We are committed, passionate, and proud of what we do for as long as we are needed. Promoting the rights of every child is not just a job – it is a calling.

Job Purpose

The Researcher/Anthropologist will be based in Islamabad and report to the M&E Specialist — Polio UNICEF for general guidance and direction, working closely with the SBC unit for SBC guidance. This role is responsible for conducting social studies on the social characteristics and health behaviors of key population groups in Polio high-risk areas. The objective is to support the program in developing effective community engagement and communication strategies to improve vaccine acceptance in Pakistan, particularly in high-risk areas. The post will identify drivers of behavior change and assess the effectiveness of Social and Behavioural Change (SBC) interventions, ultimately contributing to polio eradication efforts by reducing missed children.

Responsibilities

Conduct desk research on cultural norms, customs, and behavioral drivers of key target populations to support the Polio programme's research and studies. Engage with stakeholders, communities, children, civil society partners, and government counterparts to undertake field research and observations. Understand how the programme can refine its campaign strategies to improve polio acceptance. Inform social and behavioral change strategies that contribute to positive change for children in Pakistan through expertise in Social and Behavioural Science. Ensure UNICEF Pakistan programming is evidence-based. Deliverables are expected to inform these strategies. The role involves general guidance and direction from the M&E Specialist — Polio UNICEF and close collaboration with the SBC unit for SBC guidance. The position aims to improve vaccine acceptance in high-risk areas by identifying behavior change drivers and assessing SBC intervention effectiveness, contributing to polio eradication.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of professional experience in anthropology, social research, or public health programming.

Skills

Qualitative research & analytical skills, Field data collection/surveys, Child Safeguarding & Ethics, Cultural & Contextual Sensitivity, Data analysis software, Quantitative data analysis skills (desirable)

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