Senior Research and Policy Analyst

As a Senior Research and Policy Analyst at Gatefield, you will play a crucial role in driving our evidence-based policy research across key areas, including health, gender, democracy, and governance. You will support Gatefield’s projects by conducting and presenting insightful research, engaging with stakeholders, and crafting data-driven recommendations that advance strategic program objectives. This role requires a unique blend of technical and analytical skills, proficiency in data visualization, and exceptional communication abilities to influence and engage a broad range of stakeholders, from internal senior management to external partners.

Key ResponsibilitiesResearch and Analysis

• Conduct primary and secondary research, combining qualitative and quantitative methods to support evidence-based policy development.
• Develop and manage research methodologies, including surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions.
• Collect and analyze datasets relevant to Gatefield’s focus areas, presenting findings through clear, engaging reports and presentations.
• Utilize advanced statistical techniques and tools (e.g., R, SPSS, Stata) for in-depth analysis and draw policy recommendations to inform Gatefield’s programs and advocacy.
• Produce high-quality research outputs, including policy briefs, reports, and articles, tailored for diverse audiences.
• Monitor political and policy developments relevant to Gatefield’s programmatic areas and contribute insights for strategic planning.

Stakeholder Engagement and Relationship Management

• Build and manage networks with key stakeholders, including government officials, think tanks, NGOs, media representatives, and other influencers.
• Collaborate with external organizations to co-design and deliver research projects, ensuring alignment with Gatefield’s mission and objectives.
• Facilitate regular communication with stakeholders to keep them informed on project updates, research findings, and Gatefield’s policy positions.
• Coordinate and organize events such as workshops, roundtables, and panel discussions to disseminate research findings and foster collaboration.
• Prepare stakeholder briefings, background notes, and communication materials to support Gatefield’s strategic engagement efforts.

Communications and Advocacy 

• Contribute content to Gatefield’s editorial and knowledge products, including blogs, articles, and research findings to enhance Gatefield’s thought leadership.
• Support the development of communication strategies and materials for research dissemination and advocacy campaigns.
• Represent Gatefield at relevant external conferences, forums, and events to promote our research findings and foster strategic partnerships.

Qualifications and SkillsTechnical Requirements

• Master’s Degree (or proven equivalent experience) in Economics, Statistics, Maths, Public Policy, Social Sciences, Data Science, or a related field.
• Minimum 2 years’ experience in research, policy analysis, or a related field, preferably within a research-based environment.
• Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools such as Excel, Power BI, Tableau, or similar platforms is essential.
• Strong knowledge of statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS, Stata) with the ability to conduct regression analysis, causal inference, and data cleaning for quantitative research.
• Experience with survey design and analysis, with a background in both qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• Excellent command of Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint), with advanced skills in Excel for data manipulation and analysis.

Key Competencies Required

• Ability to translate complex data into actionable insights and communicate them clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Proven experience engaging with high-level stakeholders, building strategic partnerships, and influencing decision-makers.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to create impactful presentations and written materials for varied audiences.
• Highly organized with a meticulous approach to data handling and report preparation.
• Demonstrated ability to work autonomously as well as collaboratively within cross-functional project teams.
• Experience working within a research organization, think tank, university, advocacy/public policy organization is a plus.
• Knowledge of Nigeria’s policy landscape, with experience in one or more of Gatefield’s focus areas: health, gender, democracy, and governance.
• IT skills in machine learning, Python, SAS, or MATLAB are an advantage.

Application Requirements:

Candidates must submit a portfolio of their work showcasing examples of reports, policy briefs, or research papers, Survey designs and analysis findings, Data visualizations, dashboards, or presentations demonstrating data insights.

Application deadline: November 13, 2024.