Consultant Roster – Research Methods

About the Role

The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) is establishing a roster of specialized consultants in Research Methods to provide high-quality methodological support across various research domains. Consultants may be engaged for discrete, bounded tasks (one-off inputs) or ongoing support to specific projects. All engagements are managed through the Research Methods Coordinator.

Scope of Work

1. Study Design

• Translating research questions into feasible, rigorous study designs including RCTs, quasi-experimental, observational, qualitative, or mixed-methods.
• Developing sampling strategies, power calculations, and sample size justifications.
• Managing randomization, blinding, and allocation procedures.
• Contributing to study design protocols and the design of data collection tools and instruments.

2. Data Analysis

• Providing consultation on appropriate analytical approaches (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods).
• Establishing data cleaning, management, and documentation standards.
• Scripting and implementation of analyses in R, Stata, Python, or other relevant software.

3. Publication Support

• Reviewing methods and results sections for journal submissions.
• Supporting post-peer-review revisions requiring methodological input.
• Potential for co-authorship based on substantial intellectual contributions.

Research Lifecycle Engagement

Consultants provide support at multiple stages, including:

• Concept/Proposal Development: Research question framing and design feasibility.
• Protocol Development: Full study design, sampling plans, and randomization.
• Pre-data Collection: Tool design and quality assurance checks.
• Analysis & Data Management: Selection of analytical approaches, output review, and data structure standards.
• Manuscript Preparation: Methods write-up and results presentation.

General Requirements

• Advanced degree (Masters or PhD) in research methods, applied statistics, biostatistics, data science, epidemiology, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated experience providing research methods or statistical support to research teams, preferably in agricultural, food systems, or development research contexts.
• Proficiency in analytical tools: R and Stata (statistical analysis), NVivo or ATLAS.ti (qualitative analysis), or Python/R (machine learning).
• Familiarity with open science practices and FAIRER data principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable, Ethical, and Replicable).
• Strong communication and capacity development skills, including the ability to provide mentorship to research staff.
• Experience with human or animal research ethics processes is an advantage.
• Fluent spoken and written English.

Deliverables and Standards

Deliverables will be defined per engagement and typically include study design briefs, documented protocols, commented reproducible analysis scripts, and AI interaction records where applicable. For engagements exceeding 5 days, a capacity development contribution (such as a methodological note or knowledge-sharing session) is required.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates should apply online through the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) career portal. Please follow the link provided in the application section to submit your candidacy.