Research Fellow (East Africa)- Africa Programme
Chatham House, the Royal Institute of International Affairs, is an independent policy institute based in London. Our mission is to help build a sustainably secure, prosperous and just world through improved international relations.
Housed within Chatham House, the Africa Programme supports improved understanding of politics, security, economies and socio-economic change across Africa, as well as the shifting geopolitics and international relations shaping the continent. We do not shy away from tackling the difficult and often complex issues facing the region and, through our research and engagement, seek to support better understanding and more effective international engagement that can contribute to positive outcomes for citizens. The work we do is complex and sensitive.
Your role will form a central part of our dynamic, multi-disciplinary and diverse team at an exciting time of expansion in our research. You will contribute to the development and delivery of a wide range of research and convening activities on East Africa, across governance, economy and trade, and security. This will include shaping and delivering individual research projects, producing high-quality policy research and analysis, and developing and maintaining a diverse, high-profile cohort of project partners and stakeholders.
Main Responsibilities
Design and deliver research projects that advance the strategic goals of the Africa Programme and Chatham House, while identifying new research areas and questions.
Shape and deliver innovative approaches to project design and research, supporting delivery in line with objectives, budgets and timelines, and generating impact across our work.
Oversee field research, ensuring proper planning and arrangements, proper conduct and safety of teams in the field, and providing risk assessments as required.
Produce high-quality, policy-relevant research for publication by the Institute – including reports, research papers, policy papers, op-eds, expert comments and audio-visual outputs.
Shape public and policy debates through research and analysis, identifying emerging issues and opportunities where the Programme can add value.
Identify and pursue opportunities for appropriate distribution of research findings through seminars, workshops, publications and the full range of online resources.
Increase visibility and outreach by promoting research and activities through Chatham House’s website, media channels and external speaking engagements.
Design research events, conferences, and research processes that foster trust-building and maximise diversity of voices, expertise and perspectives.
Build and maintain strong networks and partnerships with key individuals, businesses, institutions, experts and other diverse stakeholders, creating new coalitions and opportunities for collaboration.
Partner with team members to develop funding leads, prepare applications and secure core and research funding, while strengthening long-term relationships with donors, corporate supporters and other significant funding partners.
Deliver briefings to core supporters and key programme stakeholders, providing insights based on your expertise.
Collaborate across Chatham House to mainstream Africa research into the Institute’s work and actively contribute to the delivery of the Chatham House EDI strategy.
Person Specification
Essential Skills and Experience:
Proven research experience on East Africa across thematic issues including governance, economy and trade, and security.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and fact-checking skills, with the ability to work accurately and effectively under pressure.
Exceptional writing skills, with experience of producing policy-relevant analysis.
Experience of delivering high-quality research outputs, applying a range of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.
Experience of communicating research findings through a variety of channels and formats, including developing creative and engaging approaches to dissemination.
Experience of supporting the design and delivery of research events, conferences, and policy discussions.
Experience of supporting fundraising activities, including drafting concept notes, contributing to funding proposals, and engaging with donors and partners.
Excellent organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage competing priorities effectively.
Excellent verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and persuasively to a range of audiences.
Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships and collaborate with colleagues and external stakeholders.
Highly adaptable and open to engaging with new research and areas of work.