Democracy International (DI) is seeking to hire a Lead Researcher (Remote, Consultant)
Democracy International (DI) is seeking to hire a Lead Researcher (Consultant) for the USAID funded AIn Shohayota Project in Bangladesh, based in Dhaka. The USAID Ain Shohayota Project (the “Project”) is a five-year project implemented by Democracy International in Bangladesh. Its goal is to promote people-centered justice across 32 districts through increased public participation, inclusivity, and data-driven approaches to strengthen the justice system. It is committed to ensuring that all people are able to resolve their disputes in a fair and timely manner regardless of their ability to pay. The project has three main objectives: i) increase demand for responsive justice services, ii) promote pro-bono legal services, and iii) build and utilize an evidence base to strengthen justice services.
Recently, Bangladesh experienced a change in governance that has provided an opportunity for substantial judicial reform, including the appointment of a new Chief Justice. As part of its efforts to support people-centered reforms during this period of transition, the Project plans to conduct a study on people’s expectations of their justice system, particularly ensuring the voices of traditionally vulnerable and marginalized groups who have historically had the greatest obstacles with accessing justice services are heard. The findings from this study will be used to advocate for specific judicial reforms to improve access to justice for all people of Bangladesh.
This is a short term consultancy assignment that can be performed remote or in Bangladesh. This role is open to both Bangladeshi citizens and expatriates.
Position Summary:
The Project is seeking to hire a Lead Researcher to lead the research process, including developing the methodology and data-collection tools, conducting the research, analyzing the data, and writing the final report. The Lead Researcher will also
supervise and work closely with a support team to provide contextual and cultural expertise to ensure the quality and coherence of the research process.
Scope of Work:
- Attend a pre-meeting to learn details about the assignment and expectations of the Project team (virtual).
- Conduct a brief literature review to develop suggested research questions and work with the Project team to define the scope of the research activity.
- Develop research methodology, including tools and techniques for data collection and analysis, and work with the Project team to finalize.
- Lead the data collection process, including supervising the research team through the research process to ensure quality research findings.
- Analyze the data and prepare a first draft of the research report to receive feedback from the Project team and other relevant stakeholders they identify.
- Prepare a final draft of the report incorporating the feedback from the Project team and others.
Qualifications:
- Working proficiency in English
- At least 13 years of experience leading qualitative research studies related to rule of law
- Knowledge of the rights of vulnerable and marginalized people in Bangladesh of other countries in the region
- Experience working on the Justice System in Bangladesh or other countries in the region
Selection Criteria:
| Criteria | Weight |
| Technical: 100 points as per below: | 100 Points |
| At least 13 years of experience leading qualitative research studies related to rule of law | 40 |
| Knowledge of the rights of vulnerable and marginalized people in Bangladesh or other countries in the region | 30 |
| Experience working on the Justice System in Bangladesh or other countries in the region | 30 |
| Total Weight | 100 Points |
**Note: Only candidates who have working proficiency in English and immediate availability will be considered for this position.
Deliverables:
- Inception Report (up to 2 Days home-based)
- Timeline
- Summary of main research findings.
- Draft Survey Tool and Methodology (up to 4 Days home-based)
- Draft research methodology including workplan outlining the research tasks/activities.
- Draft survey tool for the data collection process.
- Final research methodology and tools for data collection plus teaching materials. (up to 2 Days home based)
- Finalized methodology and survey tool based on feedback from the Project team.
- Lead Data Collection Process. (up to 15 Days, in-country preferred)
- Research notes and schedule of meetings conducted
- A preliminary report in English. (up to 5 Days home-based)
- The report should include an executive summary, introduction, methodology, rationale of the assessment, findings, and findings-based recommendations to be shared with the Project team.
- Final comprehensive report in English. (up to 2 Days home-based)
- The report should incorporate the feedback received from the Project team (and other relevant stakeholders they may invite to comment).
Reporting:
- This position reports to the Chief of Party
Level of Effort and Compensation:
- The Lead Researcher will work no more than 30 days on this assignment following the signing of the contract. Travel expenses will be paid in accordance with DI’s official policy.
Application Process:
Please send a CV and detailed cover letter before 20 October 2024. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The Project may request finalists to provide contact information for three professional references.
Democracy International maintains the highest ethical standards. We are committed to the prevention of sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment as well as other ethical breaches. All our positions are therefore subject to stringent vetting and reference checks.
About the Organization:
DI provides technical assistance, analytical services and project implementation for democracy, human rights, governance and conflict mitigation programs worldwide for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the U.S. State Department and other development partners. Since its founding in 2003, Democracy International has worked with civil society organizations, political parties, election-management bodies, government agencies, legislatures, justice-sector institutions, and others in 80+ countries.
DI welcomes and supports a diverse and inclusive work environment. We are committed to equal employment opportunities (EEO) for all applicants seeking employment and for DI employees. DI makes employment decisions based on organizational needs, job requirements and individual qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, personal appearance, military status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, political affiliation, educational status, unemployment status, place of residence or business, source of income, or reproductive health decision making. Additionally, harassment or discrimination based on these characteristics will not be tolerated at DI. To perform the essential functions of this position, reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities.
