Senior Research Analyst (Climate Services)

“WorldFish is a leading international research organization working to transform aquatic food systems to reduce hunger, malnutrition, and poverty. It collaborates with international, regional, and national partners to co-develop and deliver scientific innovations, evidence for policy, and knowledge to enable equitable and inclusive impact for millions who depend on fish for their livelihoods. As a member of CGIAR, WorldFish contributes to building a food- and nutrition-secure future and restoring natural resources. Headquartered in Penang, Malaysia, with country offices across Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, WorldFish strives to create resilient and inclusive food systems for shared prosperity. For more information, visit: www.worldfishcenter.org”

About the Position

Climate variability (high temperatures, cold spell, heavy rain, and dry spell) and extremes (floods, drought) have a profound influence on fisheries and aquaculture in SADC region. For instance, the Northern and Luapula provinces of Zambia face increased rainfall, longer rain seasons, lower temperatures, and strong winds, affecting fisheries and aquaculture in various ways. The Southern province is plagued by drought and dry spells. To address these climate variabilities induces risks, building climate resilience and institutional adaptability to shocks are critical to strengthen institutional capacity and knowledge towards adaptation and mitigation of impacts of climate change and build resilience to other vulnerabilities to the aquatic food systems sector in this region. In doing so, WorldFish will set-up an open-source digital information system for managers and value chain actors of fisheries and aquaculture in Zambia and Malawi to provide climate information services to manage climate risks along with disseminating fish value chain information and sharing application and hands-on training on digital apps. These activities will be held under the scope of the Programme for Improving Fisheries Governance and Blue Economy Trade Corridors in SADC Region, which is funded by the African Development Bank. The key deliverables of the digital fisheries information system component of the project would be knowledge products, planning tools and training.

Under the guidance and overall supervision of the WorldFish Scientist, the Senior Research Analyst (SRA) will be a liaison with relevant government departments, NGOs and private sectors for training and dialogues, Analyse the historical climate data as well as coordinate with WorldFish Zambia and Malawi Teams in all aspects of the project.

This job might be for you if you have the below skills and qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Aquaculture/Fisheries Management/Natural Resource Management/Climate Change or closely related field with strong knowledge on Climate relevant issues for fisheries and aquaculture value chains. A PhD will be an added advantage.

• 5 years or more of relevant experience on Fisheries and Aquaculture systems and practices in SADC region
• Demonstrated research and development experience on climate adaptation and/or climate risks management measures for fisheries and aquaculture in SADC region.
• Proven data analysis skills
• Proven ability to conduct field surveys, trainings and workshops.
• Excellent interpersonal skills in working with interdisciplinary research staff .
• Scientific writing skills in English
• Skills in using common data analysis applications (like SPSS/R/others). Skills in using digital tools like Kobo Toolbox to design surveys, collect data, analyse, and manage data for surveys, monitoring, evaluation, and research.

Desired Skills and Qualification

• Proficient in English language both verbal and written- evidence of previous report/ publications desirable.
• Working knowledge and experience with ICT, digital services and their application in R4D particularly aquaculture and fisheries.
• Working knowledge and experience with international development agencies or NGOs in SADC region will be an advantage.
• Positive and can-do attitude towards tasks beyond the job description.
• Ability to research, plan, implement technical programmes related to work area.
• Ability to work with minimum supervision, and previous project management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and tight deadlines.

Salary & Benefits

This is a Nationally Recruited Staff (NRS) position and WorldFish offers a competitive remuneration package including (but not limited to) insurance coverage for staff and eligible dependents, provident fund contribution, paid leave and others.

Our Offer

The position will be based in Lusaka, Zambia. Interviews are expected to begin in March 2024. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified and expected to attend the virtual interview session. The successful candidate should be available to commence as soon as possible for an initial of one (01) year fixed-term contract, with the possibility of contract renewal depending on performance and funding situation.

How to Apply

Interested applicants are invited to submit the following information online latest by 29 February 2024:

• A cover letter including a 2-page (max) description of why you are an ideal candidate for this role referring to the key responsibilities and what you would bring to the role;
• A current curriculum vitae;
• Names and contacts (telephone and e-mail addresses) of three professional referees who are familiar with your qualifications and work experience. Your nominated referees ideally should have persons from each of the following category: direct supervisor, internal peer and/or direct report. None of referees will be contacted without your permission.

The screening will start immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Due to the high volume of applicants for WorldFish positions, we appreciate all interest, but only short-listed candidates will be contacted.