ISS Nairobi Junior Researcher (Governance, Crime and Justice Division) Job in Kenya

ISS Nairobi Junior Researcher - Governance, Crime and Justice Division

The Governance, Crime and Justice (GCJ) Division of the ISS is offering an opportunity for a junior researcher.

The successful candidate will be based in Nairobi and will be dealing with aspects of research and dissemination projects in the field of criminal justice; policy and practice; tackling corruption; and good governance. 

The position offers direct exposure to efforts to promote human security in Africa. 

In addition, this post will give the candidate opportunities to gain practical skills in conducting and disseminating research findings, as well as to interact with other researchers, regional organisations, the diplomatic community, policymakers and others.

The successful candidate will:

• Work as part of a team, under the supervision of the division head and the head of the Nairobi Office, to identify critical areas of new research and advocacy to support good governance and improve policy and practice in criminal justice
• Proactively conceptualise, initiate and undertake high-quality primary and secondary research on governance, crime and justice
• Assist researchers to develop research proposals and undertake research projects
• Assist researchers with background information and research
• Assist researchers to present research findings at the ISS and other relevant forums
• Assist in organising various events and preparing relevant reports
• Take minutes of meetings
• Work on short research papers
• Contribute to other internal publications
• Perform other tasks assigned by the division head and the head of the Nairobi Office

Requirements for this position:

• A minimum of undergraduate degree in a relevant social science discipline such as political science, international relations, law, conflict and peace studies, strategic and security studies or criminology
• An understanding of the government’s policy-making environment in Kenya, East African and the Horn of Africa
• Relevant course work, previous research experience and a publication record is highly desirable
• At least two years’ experience in a research or policy environment
• Applicants should be well organised, self-motivated and reliable, with a strong interest in crime, criminal justice, governance and human-rights issues
• A high level of written and spoken English is required
• Ability to undertake networking with academia and other research organisations is highly desirable
• Computer skills (i.e. Microsoft Office, Internet applications)

This position involves extensive travel. The contract will be for a period of two years, and may be renewed subject to funding.
 

Salary: A competitive salary is offered based on experience.
 

How to apply:
 

Applications should be emailed to Salome Oyoo at nairobijobs@issafrica.org.
 

Applicants must provide:

• A cover letter, detailing how you meet the requirements of the position
• A detailed CV, including the names and contact details of three referees

Closing date: The closing date is 18 May 2014.
 

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. 

The ISS is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to achieving employment equity in the workplace. 

Female applicants are especially encouraged to apply.

For further details and additional opportunities see www.issafrica.org