Policy Dialogue and Research Communications Specialist

INDEPTH is a pioneer in health and population research, providing robust answers to some of the most important questions in development. Through its global network of currently 49 health and  demographic surveillance system (HDSS) field sites in 20 countries in Africa, Asia and Oceania, it is capable of producing reliable longitudinal data not about the lives of people in low- and middle-income countries as well as about the impact on those lives of development policies and programmes. We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Policy Dialogue and Research Communications Specialist for the INDEPTH Secretariat in Accra to head the Policy Dialogue and Communications Section of the Secretariat. Job Description  Overall Task:  Lead, dynamise and catalyse the design and implementation of a policy dialogue and communications programme at INDEPTH, working closely with INDEPTH member centres across Africa, Asia and the Pacific as well as the INDEPTH Research to Policy Working Group. Also, take part in the development and implementation of INDEPTH's knowledge generation and synthesis programme. Specific Tasks: Research-to-policy: Set the strategy and directions for policy communication activities. Prioritise issues arising from INDEPTH research for policy briefs, determine relevant policy options, and identify barriers to implementation that need to be addressed. Contribute to the development of knowledge translation and policy analysis proposals. Contribute to the implementation of knowledge translation and policy analysis projects. Anchor at the Secretariat the activities of the INDEPTH Research to Policy Working Group. Policy analysis and dialogue:  Conduct analyses of relevant policy documents, policy processes and policy environments to generate important information for informing INDEPTH's policy advocacy programmes. Identify and facilitate INDEPTH's participation in important research -to-policy dialogue activities. Take part in INDEPTH's research-to-policy dialogue activities e.g. attend meetings, make presentations. Expand INDEPTH's policy links through the establishment of contact with relevant policymakers and regional bodies and networks.  Publications: Oversee the development and production of INDEPTH's institutional publications e.g. Brochures, Newsletters, Annual Reports. Develop and oversee the production of INDEPTH's policy-oriented publications e.g. Research Bulletins, Development Perspectives, Policy Briefs. Media:  Link INDEPTH's research to media to facilitate media coverage e.g. through publishing stories, facilitating international journalists to report INDEPTH's work, etc. Establish contact with relevant journalists to increase awareness of INDEPTH's work among international journalists. Website: Oversee the management of INDEPTH's website e.g. content is updated, regular checks to ensure links are working. Develop research and policy content for INDEPTH's website – news stories, development perspectives, research bulletins, etc. Position Requirements Competencies Professionalism – Strong research communication and analytical skills and ability to rapidly analyse and integrate diverse information from various sources; up -to-date knowledge of current topics and issues and ability to identify public opportunities and risks in an international environment; proven ability in news gathering, writing and editing to very tight deadlines; thorough knowledge of health and demographicsurveillance systems (HDSSs) and understanding of, and experience in, dealing with the media. Communication – highly developed communication (spoken, presentation) skills, including the ability to produce a variety of written communication productions in a clear and concise style. Experience in policy briefs and web-based advocacy materials. Planning and Organising - develop clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identify priorities and adjust, as required; allocate appropriate time and resources to complete work, allowing for contingencies; and, use time efficiently. Technological Awareness – Quantitative and qualitative analytical skills and experience in using relevant analytical software would be an added advantage. Qualification EITHER: An advanced university degree (Master's degree or higher) in science communications, public relations or related fields. A science background and knowledge of population and health issues in low- and middleincome countries are crucial for this position. OR: Established scientists who wish to be engaged in policy dialogue and research communications. OR: New PhD graduates who wish to consider a postdoc position in policy dialogue and communications.  Status This is an internationally-recruited position open to Ghanaians and nationals of all low- and middle-income countries especially where HDSS centres are located.  The position will be offered for an initial period of two years. An extension will depend on excellent performance and availability of funding. A competitive international salary and benefits package will be offered. Mode of application: Interested candidates should send application letters by email to Mrs. Margaret Bugase, Administrative Manager, INDEPTH Network: margaret.bugase@indepth-network.org The subject line must have: APPLICATION FOR PDRC SPECIALIST, INDEPTH SECRETARIAT. Candidates should also add their current CVs and quote reference PDRC. Deadline for applications: open until vacancy is filled