Job Description

Position Description

The Research Analyst will be responsible for supporting the Foundation’s decision-making process by providing an in-depth understanding and analytical assessment of specific sectors, interventions, and potential partners. Successful candidates will ideally possess experience or strong interest in international development (especially in health, education, and/or nutrition),  on-the ground experience working in Sub-Saharan Africa,  the ability to conduct rigorous research and analysis , and excitement for participating in the development of a growing foundation.

The Research Analyst will work closely with and under the guidance of JBJF Strategy Managers and Research Economist.

Potential to be based in Lilongwe, Malawi for right candidate for sector-specific role

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis with an aim to fill the position as soon as a suitable candidate is found

Specific responsibilities include (but are not limited to):

• Conduct quantitative and qualitative research, drawing from a range of sources to support JBJF decision-making, and perform data analyses to inform direction and design of potential interventions
• Identify and structure problems, develop hypotheses and innovative solutions, and apply relevant analytic approaches to test hypothesis and solutions
• Work closely with JBJF Research Economist to conduct literature reviews and critically assess the relevance/quality of findings to inform investment decisions and/or program design
• Conduct interviews with external stakeholders to gather insights on relevant topics
• Prepare high-quality written documents and presentations
• Present work clearly, confidently, and concisely
• Deliver on multiple priorities and proactively manage workplan, deadlines and internal stakeholders

Required skills and experience:

• Minimum 2 years of work experience, preferably in an analytical role, e.g., finance, consulting, and/or research
• Experience working in international development, particularly on health, education or nutrition, and/or in Sub-Saharan Africa preferred
• Proficient in the handling and use of data, including identifying and synthesizing insights, proposing evidence-based recommendations and presenting findings
• Critical analysis of existing research literature
• Strong problem-solving skills and creative / entrepreneurial orientation, with outstanding organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work independently and proactively in the context of a geographically distributed team
• Cross-cultural sensitivity and awareness
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills (in English)
• Expertise in Microsoft Office
• Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in a related field; Master’s degree and studies in related field are a plus

About the Organization

JBJ Foundation (JBJF) is a private foundation based in the United States which seeks to catalyze lasting improvements in the lives of the world’s poorest by helping to improve health, education, and nutrition outcomes in Sub-Saharan Africa. We work closely with government counterparts to co-design cost-effective interventions with the potential for scale and sustainability. Our work is currently focused in Malawi with additional countries to follow. More information is available at  jbj.foundation