African Economic Research Consortium: Research Consultancy Opportunity – Apply By 15 May 2026

The African Economic Research Consortium (AERC), established in 1988, is a leading public not-for-profit institution committed to advancing policy-relevant economic research and graduate training across Africa. Its core mandate is to strengthen local capacity for independent, high-quality economic analysis that informs effective economic management and sustainable development across the continent.

Through an integrated model that combines research, postgraduate training, and policy engagement, AERC collaborates with a wide network of universities, researchers, policymakers, and international partners. Under its 10-Year Strategic Plan (2025–2035), titled “A Renewed AERC for Africa’s New Development Priorities,” the organization seeks to enhance the impact, sustainability, and relevance of its programmes in response to evolving global and regional economic dynamics.

Background and Purpose of the Consultancy

To reinforce its technical and operational capacity, AERC is inviting applications for a Research Consultant role under reference AERC/PROC/EOI/RCH/0005/2026-2027/001. The consultant will work closely with the Director of Research (DOR) to support the design, implementation, and communication of the organization’s research agenda.

This position may be structured as either full-time or part-time, with the possibility of appointing two consultants on a shared basis. The role is multidisciplinary, requiring expertise in research coordination, project management, resource mobilization, donor engagement, and policy advisory.

The consultancy reflects AERC’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, with strong encouragement for applications from female and Francophone economists.

Scope of Work and Key Responsibilities

The Research Consultant will undertake a broad set of responsibilities aligned with AERC’s strategic priorities and research programmes.

Technical Research and Programme Support

• Provide high-level technical input into the development and quality assurance of research programmes
• Review and strengthen research proposals, working papers, and publications
• Guide researchers within the AERC network to improve research quality and relevance
• Identify emerging economic trends and recommend updates to research priorities
• Support monitoring and evaluation using established frameworks

Resource Mobilization

• Lead the development and submission of competitive research grant proposals
• Build and manage a pipeline of funding opportunities
• Prepare technical reports and concept notes for donors
• Track funding trends and advise on strategic positioning
• Maintain records to improve grant success rates

Stakeholder and Donor Relations

• Maintain consistent communication with donors and stakeholders
• Support stakeholder meetings with universities, policymakers, and partners
• Ensure timely and high-quality donor reporting
• Contribute to donor engagement strategies and institutional partnerships
• Coordinate dissemination of research outputs with communications teams

Research Project Management

• Oversee the implementation and completion of research projects
• Ensure compliance with deliverables and reporting requirements
• Identify risks and implement mitigation strategies
• Advise on improving policy impact tracking

Policy Engagement

• Facilitate engagement with policymakers and regional institutions
• Translate research findings into actionable policy outputs
• Represent AERC in high-level forums and conferences
• Monitor policy developments and identify opportunities for impact

Qualifications and Experience Requirements

The role requires a highly experienced and accomplished professional with a strong academic and policy background.

Key requirements include:

• PhD in Economics or a related field, with specialization in development, macroeconomics, environmental, or labour economics
• At least 10 years of experience in economic research, project management, and policy engagement
• Proven record of peer-reviewed publications and strong analytical skills
• Demonstrated success in securing research funding and managing grants
• Experience in donor relations, monitoring, and evaluation
• Strong engagement with policymakers and ability to translate research into policy
• Extensive professional networks across Africa and globally
• Excellent communication skills in English and/or French

Additional technical skills in data analysis tools such as STATA, R, MATLAB, GIS, and emerging AI/ML applications are considered an advantage.

Ethical Standards: Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality

AERC places significant emphasis on integrity, transparency, and professional ethics. Applicants are required to declare any potential conflicts of interest and disclose prior engagements that may influence impartiality.

Successful candidates must:

• Sign a confidentiality and conflict of interest declaration
• Protect sensitive and proprietary information
• Avoid activities that compromise objectivity or credibility
• Refrain from unauthorized use of AERC data or outputs

Non-compliance may result in disqualification or termination of the consultancy.

Duration, Engagement, and Working Conditions

The consultancy is initially offered for a one-year period, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability. Consultants will operate under the supervision of the Director of Research and are expected to actively engage in daily operations.

The role offers flexibility, allowing remote work; however, availability during working hours and reliable internet connectivity are essential. The position also requires the ability to travel across Africa when necessary.

Application Process and Requirements

Interested applicants must submit their applications online by May 15, 2026. The application package should include:

• A cover letter (maximum 2 pages)
• A detailed CV (maximum 5 pages)
• A statement on a significant grant secured
• A policy engagement note
• Contact details of three referees

All documents must be compiled into a single PDF file. The selection process includes background checks, interviews, and a probationary period for successful candidates.

Equal Opportunity and Final Notes

AERC is an equal opportunity employer committed to inclusive recruitment practices. Female candidates and applicants from underrepresented regions are strongly encouraged to apply.

This consultancy represents a significant opportunity for experienced economists to contribute to shaping Africa’s economic research landscape and influencing evidence-based policymaking at national, regional, and global levels.

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Disclaimer: Remote Job Opportunities (RJO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to RJO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.