Research Director

The newly established Global Institute for Strategic Research (GISR), a member of HBKU, is looking to hire a Research Director as soon as possible. Through trusted and relevant foresight, GISR acts as a bridge between research and policy. In doing so, GISR enhances the ability of decision-makers in Qatar and the Arab world to develop impactful and informed contributions to ongoing efforts to resolve some of the most pressing global challenges, including conflict, poverty, state fragility, energy market stability, and climate change.

GISR serves as an interdisciplinary hub, enriching research and connecting existing expertise across Qatar Foundation’s network of Higher Education institutions and beyond in areas of global governance, conflict, peace, security, development, health, education, gender, international law, artificial intelligence, public policy, and impact evaluation, amongst others. Its mission is to strengthen the capacity of decision-makers to address global and regional challenges by employing independent and forward-facing frameworks of analysis that stimulate critical thinking, foresight, and innovation. GISR fosters diversity of thought and understanding to collaboratively tackle pertinent global governance, advancement, and peace challenges from an Arab, as well as a regional perspective.

Position

To lead the planning and oversee the implementation of the institute’s research agenda under the supervision of the Institute’s Executive Director.

Job Role Description

• Develop an annual research strategy and action plan for the implementation of the Institute’s research priorities.
• Design methods for evaluating the effectiveness of research programs and develop relevant policies for the research agenda.
• Prepare and oversee the implementation of policies and procedures related to research management within the Institute.
• Manage overall administrative and operational activities for research projects, including line management. Coordinate, support, and oversee the thematic managers and research fellows.
• Support the Executive Director in commissioning research and coordinating new initiatives and current projects by maintaining effective communication, control, and reporting to the Executive Director on progress.
• Undertake research and publish research outputs – including articles in peer-reviewed journals and Op-Eds in internationally recognized and impactful outlets.
• Develop and write up research proposals, reports, briefings, and presentations on the progress of research projects.
• Plan and lead the implementation of research programs from start to completion involving deadlines, milestones, and processes.
• Day-to-day follow-up and support of the GISR research staff.
• Managing the workload allocation of staff involved in research, particularly periodic adjustments deemed necessary due to modifications in GISR activities.
• Providing input regarding approval of all research applications submitted by GISR personnel in particular on the ethics approval.
• Evaluate project outcomes according to the parameters established during the planning phase and submit reports to the Executive Director.
• Ensure program operations and activities comply with applicable local and internationally recognized standards and regulations, and adhere to legal guidelines and internal policies.
• Contribute, where appropriate, to the performance review of research staff.
• Provide information on research skill development and funding opportunities as appropriate.
• Liaise with different departments within HBKU to facilitate the work of GISR as required.
• Other reasonable tasks as assigned by the supervisor.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills & Experience

• PhD degree in a relevant field of study
• Minimum 8 years experience as a research lead or other relevant managerial position, preferably in an internationally recognized Think Tank or a large and diverse research institution.
• Experience in setting up new projects, project management, monitoring, and reporting on current projects.
• Outstanding research and writing skills with a track record of peer-reviewed publications reflecting the years of experience.
• The ability to draft and edit a variety of written reports and communications, and to articulate ideas clearly and concisely.
• Excellent knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods (data gathering, assessment, interpretation, evaluation, and reporting).
• Familiarity with facilities management and support services.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and research skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and excellent writing skills, with the ability to draft and edit a variety of written reports and communications and to articulate ideas clearly and concisely.
• Experience in the Middle East Region and knowledge of Qatar Foundation and Education City will be an added advantage.
• Outstanding writing skills with the ability to draft and edit a variety of written reports and communications and to articulate ideas clearly and concisely; proficiency in Arabic is an advantage.
• Proficiency in MS Office applications.

How to Apply

To apply, please follow this link
Additional documents may be solicited from short-listed candidates.

Deadline

Applications will be reviewed immediately and continue on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Remuneration

HBKU offers an attractive compensation package that includes a tax-free salary and additional benefits such as an accommodation allowance, annual paid leave, and medical insurance.

Hamad Bin Khalifa University is an equal opportunity educator and employer. We are committed to maintaining culturally and academically diverse staff of the highest caliber.