Research Assistant(s)

I. Background

The Center of Excellence on Early Childhood Development (COE-ECD), established under Regulation 142/2022, is dedicated to promoting integrated, multisectoral approaches to Comprehensive Early Childhood Development (ECD) across the African continent. The Center plays a vital role in fostering government-led systems to ensure equitable access to quality ECD services. Using both Addis Ababa’s work and global best practices as benchmarks, COE-ECD aims to scale these services throughout Ethiopia and beyond.

COE-ECD’s core functions include:

• Integrated Knowledge Hub

• Research and Innovation

• Workforce Development

• Standards & Quality Assurance

One of the Center’s main mandates is conducting early childhood research and development in collaboration with local and international research institutes. The Center generates policy ideas, promotes ECD initiatives, and develops materials for parents, guardians, and communities to enhance responsive child care and development.

II. Objectives

The Research Assistant(s) will primarily support two key areas:

1. Assisting in the research activities of the center.

2. Publishing the findings of the Center’s research activities.

3. Assisting in the development of policies and strategic actions based on research.

Key activities will include conducting literature reviews, compiling data from regional and city-specific research, coordinating sessions and forums, and supporting the preparation of various ECD-related publications, including policy briefs and training materials.

III. Scope of Work

The Research Assistant(s) will be required to carry out a variety of tasks related to the Center’s ongoing and upcoming research projects. These tasks include, but are not limited to:

1. Research Support

   • Assist with the ECD baseline surveys conducted in Amhara, Sidama, and Central Ethiopia national regional states, as well as other surveys in Oromia and Dire Dawa.

   • Support the Addis Ababa developmental milestone assessments and vulnerability mapping for the city’s underserved villages.

   • Conduct desk reviews, interviews, and data collection to support ongoing research efforts.

2. Manuscript & Guideline Preparation

   • Contribute to the preparation of the COE-ECD journal and related publications.

   • Assist in developing training manuals, policy guidelines, and checklists based on research findings.

   • Help review existing guidelines related to ECD, identifying gaps and recommending improvements.

   • Draft policy briefs, slide decks, and presentations based on research results.

3. Collaborative Activities

   • Collaborate with the research coordinator and partners to develop content for various studies.

   • Assist with organizing, documenting, and supporting the logistics of dissemination forums and consultative workshops.

   • Attend in-person consultation meetings and contribute to shaping the final reports.

4. Other Related Tasks

   • Prepare and contribute to research reports, including inception, progress, and final reports.

   • Support the publication process for articles in academic journals and dissemination platforms.

   • Perform other related tasks as assigned by supervisors and collaborate with the team to achieve the Center’s mission.

IV. Deliverables

• Research Reports: Completion and submission of final research reports, including all relevant findings and recommendations.

• Publications: Assistance in preparing manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

• Regular Progress Reports: Monthly, quarterly, biannual, and annual reports detailing the progress of activities and research conducted.

• Final Report: A comprehensive report based on research outcomes, including proposals for future work and publication.

• High-Quality Proposals: Development of proposals and guidelines in alignment with the Center’s needs.

V. Duration 
The Research Assistant(s) are required for an initial period of six (6) months, with the possibility of extension, subject to financial approvals and satisfactory performance.

VI. Monthly Fee
The monthly fee for the position is negotiable, based on the candidate’s experience and in accordance with the organization’s payment scale.

VII. Assignment Management and Administration
The Research Assistant(s) will report directly to the COE-ECD Research Coordinator concerning all aspects of the assignment. The Research Coordinator will provide guidance, support, and feedback on the progress of the research and other related tasks.

VII. Location
The Research Assistant(s) will be based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Any travel required for the completion of the assignment, as authorized in advance by the Center, will be covered by AfC-ECD.

IX. Qualifications and Required Skills
The Research Assistant(s) must possess the following qualifications and skills:

• Educational Background: Master’s or PhD in Public Health, Global Health, Developmental Psychology, Early Learning, Sociology, Social Anthropology, or related fields.

• Experience: At least ten (10) years of relevant experience working within national/international organizations, research institutes, government bodies, or similar organizations.

• Expertise in ECD Research: Demonstrated knowledge and experience in Early Childhood Development (ECD) research and related fields.

• Research Writing: Excellent research writing, editing, and academic communication skills.

• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical abilities, with experience in data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

• Self-Motivation: Highly self-motivated, with the ability to work independently and meet deadlines.

• Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively with others, possessing a positive attitude and strong interpersonal skills.

• Travel Flexibility: Willingness to travel to regions or outside the duty station as required for the successful completion of tasks.

• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English; proficiency in additional languages is a plus.

• Efficiency: Ability to work efficiently with the team and stakeholders to meet project goals and deadlines.

• Technology Proficiency: Comfort using communication tools (email, Skype, SMS, instant messaging) and familiarity with data analysis software.

• Computer Skills: Strong computer literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel.

How To Apply

Interested candidates should submit a CV and cover letter, Copies of relevant degrees and certifications and Relevant research papers & manuscripts (if any) to fetiyatemam.coe@gmail.com within 7 Calander

days of posting. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

N.B. After submitting your application to the above address please fill out and submit the form using the below link

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeG35D11o6-mDYlWj1uYKh5Nuf2opGj96q3WEDgVYutwz3HmA/viewform?usp=dialog

Please be aware that unless you fill out and submit the form in the above link, your application will not be taken into consideration.