Research Fellow 2

Position Overview

The Research Fellow 2 (RF2) is a research professional responsible for working collaboratively with both internal and external project stakeholders to deliver quality research and project outcomes. 

The RF2 will also assume responsibility for managing projects including the supervision of project team members.

Position Context

The Education and Development research program undertakes commissioned work for international agencies and clients (e.g. DFAT, UNICEF, GPE, World Bank, FCDO and UNESCO) and is seeking a Research Fellow to join its team and provide research coordination, client liaison and research support for international education projects. The position will be responsible for leading and managing the DFAT funded Education Analytics, Research and Capability Building (EdARC) program, that provides expertise and capacity building to support DFAT's education investments in the Asia-Pacific region. 

Ideal candidates will have a relevant undergraduate qualification, ideally in Education, and/or International Development, or related field, as well as professional experience in the international education sector and with international development or UN systems. An understanding of developing country contexts and/or emergency operations is highly desirable. Proven background in social research is required, with experience managing field operations for international research projects an added advantage. A high level of planning and organisational skills, problem solving, communication (written and verbal), and interpersonal skills are also required. Skills working in cross-cultural contexts is highly desirable.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead program planning, activity development, and reflection sessions for the EdARC program
• Contribute to setting the strategic direction of the EdARC program, including participating in the review and update of program strategy documents
• Respond to tasking notes from DFAT and collaborate on the development of Project Concept Notes as needed
• Develop, maintain, and monitor detailed workplans of program activities
• Implement program reporting, including preparing narrative reports for DFAT
• Facilitate program management meetings with DFAT
• Contribute to establishing and implementing effective monitoring, evaluation and learning arrangements
• Work with the Education and Development Communications specialist on research partnership strategies and initiatives.
• Actively contribute to and participate in program activities to enhance the delivery of education and development research outcomes at ACER
• Develop and build professional collegiality and networks through participation in events, forums, workshops and conferences at ACER and in the broader education and development research community.

Decision Making Authority

The RF2 has project management responsibilities which include the supervision of project team members.

Decisions involving the commitment of significant resources or funding and/or related to employee matters or client relationships, are made with reference to the relevant Project Director and/or Senior Manager.

Organisational Accountabilities

• Proactively work towards achieving individual, team and organisational objectives while demonstrating ACER’s leadership behaviours:
• Developing Self – involves self-management, self-reflection and self-improvement
• Embracing Change – being open to change and leading change when appropriate
• Pursuing Excellence – ongoing search for new and better ways of working
• Setting Directions – strategic thinking and planning for the future
• Supporting Colleagues – supporting and contributing to the development of others
• Working Collaboratively – building highly effective internal and external relationships
• Actively work to create an equitable, fair and harmonious work environment which is free from harassment, bullying and discrimination by demonstrating respectful and courteous behaviour towards others
• Proactively foster an inclusive and diverse work environment which encourages and respects different experiences and perspectives, and values diversity of thought
• Comply with all occupational health and safety requirements, including following safe work practices for self and others
• Comply with all information security requirements, including completing regular security training and abiding by the standards and procedures laid out in ACER’s Information Security Management System

Skills, Knowledge And Experience

• Demonstrated experience undertaking research, monitoring and evaluation work for international development/humanitarian agencies or philanthropic organisations
• Experience working internationally with DFAT, UN Agencies or related philanthropic organisations.
• Demonstrated strategic thinking skills
• Ability to communicate research approaches, concepts and outcomes both verbally and in writing in a cross-cultural context
• Experience in building successful external partnerships and relationships
• High-level organisational and project management skills, with the proven ability to manage varied and conflicting demands to deliver to quality standards, deadlines and budgets
• Excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to foster and develop effective working relationships with both internal and external stakeholders from culturally diverse backgrounds
• Willingness to learn and demonstrated commitment to continuous improvement and professional development.

Qualifications

Masters Degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification in relevant discipline