Roster Call for Research Assistants

RDG is expanding its roster of detail-oriented research assistants to support research projects on a contractual basis. Research assistants play a critical role in recordkeeping, note-taking, transcription, and translation activities, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in research documentation and analysis. Successful candidates will be engaged based on project needs and their subject matter expertise. Our consultant roster allows RDG to mobilize research teams quickly when new projects arise. Inclusion on RDG’s roster is not a promise of employment or a short-term contract.

Research assistants may be expected to travel nationwide, but can be based in any city within Iraq, though RDG particularly seeks candidates from Baghdad, Basra, and Erbil. Iraqi nationals only.

Tasks assigned to researchers will depend on the scope and scale of the research initiative but may include one or more of the following:

• Support the creation of qualitative research tools such as key informant interview (KII) protocols and/or focus group discussion (FGD) guides.
• Record, transcribe, and/or take notes during KIIs and FGDs. File interview and discussion recordings accurately.
• Conduct desk research, summarizing and analyzing information succinctly.
• Contribute to coding and summarizing data trends, including using AI-enhanced coding software.
• Translate research materials and data as required (language-specific needs will vary by project).
• Organize and maintain detailed records of research materials and data.
• Contribute to the preparation of summaries, reports, and presentations.
• Other related tasks based on client requirements and the consultants’ expertise.

Required Qualifications

• One or more years of experience in qualitative research, including data collection and management.
• Exceptional note-taking and recordkeeping skills and attention to detail.
• Strong coordination skills, including managing logistics for several concurrent meetings/interviews.
• Flexibility and availability for project-based engagement.
• Fluency in Arabic and/or Kurdish.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in social sciences, development studies, environmental science, or a related field.
• Expertise in at least one of the following thematic areas:
  • Democracy, human rights, and governance
  • Civil society
  • Climate change
  • Economic growth
  • Inclusion (women/youth/vulnerable peoples)
  • Private sector development
  • Digitalization
  • Conflict dynamics
• English fluency (writing/speaking) strongly preferred.