SENIOR RESEARCH ASSOCIATE// Forskare

The Nordic Africa Institute invites applications for a position as
SENIOR RESEARCH ASSOCIATE
for a research project on
'Poverty, Inequality and Social Exclusion'

Closing date for applications: 15 Oktober 2008

The Nordic Africa Institute is seeking to appoint an experienced researcher at the rank of Senior Research Associate to manage a new research project on 'Poverty, Inequality and Social Exclusion'. The candidate must have a demonstrated experience in the analysis of poverty and inequality and offer research-based policy recommendations on how to reduce them. The position is for a period of three years and financed by Sida.

Job description and Qualifications:
Prospective candidates must have a PhD in development economics, political economy, or international development. At the time of application, applicants must have had more than three years of post-doctoral experience in a research institution or post-graduate teaching at a university. Conduct research on 'poverty, inequality and social exclusion in Africa' and help mainstream poverty research into the other core research areas of the institute, namely, urban dynamics, Agrarian change, Globalization, Gender, and post-conflict reconstruction. The candidate must have demonstrated experience and good knowledge in applied poverty research from a multidisciplinary perspective at the international level. Field experience in Africa in an advisory position to national governments or aid agencies is an asset.
Strong quantitative and analytical skills and ability to translate complex and technical issues into concise and easily readable policy notes and briefs for policy makers and other interested parties Ability to conceptualize, organize and lead important research seminars on the different dimensions of 'poverty, inequality and social exclusion' The applicant must show familiarity with the workings of the UN system, multilateral institutions, such as the World Bank, the IMF, the WTO and regional economic commissions, and maintain continuous dialogue with development partners-Governments, donors, NGO-CSOs-on how to address specific development problems in a coordinated way. Familiarity with important poverty reduction initiatives at the international level, such as the MDGs, the PRSP, and a demonstrated ability to conduct Poverty and Social Impact Analysis (PSI) Familiarity with the mandate, thematic focus of Nordic development agencies with reference to Africa Strong writing ability as well as the ability to present complex issues orally in English Participate and contribute actively in the mainstreaming of poverty analysis in the various research clusters that makes up the NAI research portfolio Strong inter-personal communication skills and ability to work in a multi-cultural team Participate and contribute actively in the main office-wide processes, including the annual work plan and cluster specific activities, by giving specific advice on the direction of the poverty and social development in the various research clusters Demonstrated record of publications.

The application
To apply, the candidates should provide the following documentation: curriculum Vitae, copies of relevant publications, a cover letter stating the reasons for the application and the names of two references.

The application should be sent to the following address: The Nordic Africa Institute P O Box 1703 SE-751 47 UPPSALA SWEDEN.