FEWS NET is Seeking for a Research Methodology and Documentation Specialist – Apply By 3 April 2026

The Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS NET) is seeking a Research Methodology and Documentation Specialist to support its Knowledge Base (KB) project. This short-term, part-time role offers an opportunity to contribute to global efforts aimed at preventing food insecurity and famine through improved research systems and data quality.

Established in 1985, FEWS NET provides early warning and analysis on food insecurity to the U.S. Government and international partners. Its work focuses on identifying the causes, scale, and geographic distribution of food insecurity while strengthening analytical capacity across local, regional, and global systems.

The current FEWS NET 8 phase includes a $65 million Knowledge Base project designed to enhance data on livelihood zones and market systems. These insights play a critical role in informing emergency food assistance and ensuring responses align with humanitarian principles.

Role Purpose and Key Contribution

The Research Methodology and Documentation Specialist will strengthen the quality, clarity, and usability of field data collection tools and methodologies. The role supports multiple technical teams, including data, market systems, and livelihoods experts, ensuring that research approaches are robust, transparent, and replicable.

The position focuses on refining mixed-method research tools that are widely used across diverse global contexts. These tools rely heavily on qualitative approaches such as key informant interviews and focus group discussions, rooted in rapid rural appraisal methodologies.

Key Responsibilities

The Specialist will collaborate closely with internal teams to improve research design, documentation, and analytical processes. Core responsibilities include:

Methodology Review and Tool Refinement

• Conduct structured assessments of existing field data collection tools
• Evaluate tools based on clarity, sequencing, cultural relevance, and risk of bias
• Recommend improvements to enhance data quality and usability
• Ensure research objectives and methodologies are clearly defined and documented

Data Collection and Analysis Support

• Work with technical teams to refine modules used in market and livelihood studies
• Strengthen processes for synthesizing and analyzing field data
• Enhance methodological transparency for both internal and external audiences

Documentation and Knowledge Sharing

• Update and revise research tools and documentation
• Produce clear, accessible methodological guidance for external stakeholders
• Support the creation of replicable and standardized research processes

Training and Capacity Building

• Identify and share best practices in qualitative research and survey design
• Develop training materials for analysts
• Promote alignment across teams on research methodology standards

Reporting and Strategic Input

• Provide regular updates to leadership on findings and recommendations
• Support implementation of improvements across project teams
• Contribute to continuous learning and methodological innovation

Required Qualifications and Experience

Candidates must demonstrate strong expertise in qualitative research and methodological design, particularly in development or food security contexts.

Education:

• Master’s degree preferred in a relevant field with applied qualitative research focus

Professional Experience:

• Minimum 5 years of relevant research experience
• At least 3 years of primary data collection experience
• Experience in food security analysis is strongly preferred
• Proven ability to produce methodological documentation for external audiences
• Familiarity with developing country contexts

Technical Skills and Competencies:

• Strong knowledge of research methods, fieldwork, and survey design
• Ability to analyze qualitative data and synthesize findings
• Excellent writing, analytical, and presentation skills
• Strong interpersonal and coordination abilities

Language Requirements:

• Professional fluency in English required
• Additional language skills relevant to FEWS NET regions are an advantage

Assignment Details

This is a short-term consultancy designed for experienced professionals seeking flexible, high-impact work.

• Duration: 4 months (with possible extension)
• Workload: Part-time (20–30 hours per week)
• Location: Remote (USA-based candidates only)
• Eligibility: Applicants must have valid U.S. work authorization
• Preferred Location: Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia (DMV area) for occasional in-person engagement

The Specialist will report to the FEWS NET Knowledge Base Data Management Lead and collaborate with multiple technical teams across the project.

Application Process

Interested candidates are required to submit their application through the official online form before the deadline.

• Application Deadline: 3 April 2026 (11:59 PM ET)
• Submission Requirements:
  • Completed online application form
• Selection Process:
  • Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
  • No telephone inquiries are accepted

Applicants are encouraged to apply early and ensure all materials are complete to avoid delays in consideration.

Impact and Opportunity

This role provides a unique opportunity to contribute to global food security efforts by improving the quality and reliability of research methodologies. The Specialist will play a key role in enhancing how data is collected, analyzed, and communicated, ultimately supporting more effective humanitarian responses.

By strengthening methodological rigor and promoting transparency, the position contributes directly to better-informed decision-making and improved outcomes for vulnerable populations facing food insecurity.

VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization hiring. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.