Vacancy Notice: Research Specialist (3) posts - CLOSED

Positions available: 3 posts (one each from Chin, Kachin, and Karen communities)

Location: Remote, based in or with strong ties to Chin, Kachin, and Karen communities with possible travel both locally and internationally

Application Deadline: 10 August 2025 and closed!

Organization Overview: 

TheHILLS Myanmar (THM) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing high-quality research, advocacy, and access to education in Chin State and its surrounding areas, including Sagaing Region and the Eastern Himalayan borderlands. Its flagship initiative, the Chin State Academic Research Network (CSARN), is an interdisciplinary platform that supports and connects researchers engaged in work related to the region, and promotes the exchange of high-quality, context-relevant knowledge. THM works across the education continuum, from supporting access to primary and secondary education to strengthening higher education, research, and academic capacity. Our activities include scholarships, fellowships, training, and mentorship programmes, as well as conferences and other opportunities for knowledge sharing and collaboration. The organisation is regularly consulted by development partners for its expertise in strategic analysis, contextual research, and policy insight. It contributes to high-level thinking through thematic studies, policy briefs, and ongoing analysis, with particular strengths in gender-sensitive approaches and the integration of Do No Harm principles into programme design and implementation. 

Overview of the role

We are hiring three researchers – one each from Chin State, Kachin State, and Karen State – to support qualitative data collection in their respective territories for a time bound research project. Researchers will work closely with the central project team and may collaborate with locally based enumerators to ensure high-quality, secure data collection and communication.

This research project addresses critical development challenges in the cross-border provision of humanitarian aid to internally displaced persons in Myanmar. We aim to improve evidence-informed cross-border aid policy by establishing a new baseline dataset and fostering multi-stakeholder dialogue across borders. This role is part of a broader research initiative grounded in community knowledge, ethical research practices, and policy relevance. Since gender inequality remains a key barrier to equal and meaningful participation in aid efforts, this project actively identifies opportunities for women's inclusion while taking a comprehensive and inclusive approach to understanding gendered experiences across the board. 

Deliverables

• Participate in a week long research design & methods training workshop

• Support pilot testing and lead interviews with relevant stakeholders in your community

• Conduct qualitative interviews (in-person and online as needed), following established safety and ethics protocols

• Provide English-language summaries of interviews for analysis

• Contribute to regular project meetings and joint reflection on methodology

• Contribute to the development of concise, accessible policy briefs and presentations

Commitment and Benefits 

• Duration: 1 September 2025 – 30 March 2026 (7 months with possible extension)

• Contract type: Consultant

• Time commitment: Part-time (80%, or 32 hours per week)

• Modality: Candidates should be based locally and should be able to reach borderland communities. Work is conducted remotely. Travel expenses will be covered separately.

• Rates: USD 1,000–1,400 per month depending on experience and other requirements

• Professional development in research ethics, gender-sensitive methods, and policy 

• Opportunities for international advocacy and collaboration (including potentially publication) 

Profile

• Demonstrated ability to conduct qualitative research in conflict-affected or politically sensitive environments in Myanmar

• Strong personal and professional ties to one of the following: Chin State, Kachin State, and Karen State

• Fluency in English and 1 relevant local language from Chin / Kachin/ Karen States. Additional languages are an asset but not required

• Thematic expertise in humanitarian aid, gender, human rights, public policy

• Education in a relevant field (e.g. human rights, social sciences, community development, education, public policy, law) is desirable. While a formal degree is not required, equivalent experience in research is essential

• Collaborative, communicative, and committed to inclusive teamwork.

• Ability to travel internationally for advocacy or stakeholder dialogue (Europe, Asia)

• Publication or writing experience (in any format) is an asset but not required

How to apply

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis from 22 July to 10 August 2025, or until the positions are filled.

Please submit to <hr@thehillsmyanmar.org> and include the below:

1. A short cover letter in English (max 1 page) outlining your relevant experience and motivation

2. A CV in English

3. A list of 2-3 referees that we can contact (include name, relationship to the applicant, their current role or job title, and their contact details)

4. (Optional) A short writing sample or previous research or advocacy output in any format

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

We are an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage applications from women and members of the LGBTQI community. Applicants of all genders and ethnic backgrounds are welcome.