Applications invited for post of Research Fellow

Centre for Trade and Development (Centad) is an independent, not-for-profit organisation that seeks to strengthen the ability of governments and communities in South Asia to make international trade and globalisation work for development. It strives to undertake accurate and real time analysis, articulate cogent policy advice to the governments and build the capacity of all relevant stakeholders. South Asia Yearbook and Trading Up Quarterly Magazine are its flagship products that are widely acclaimed. It organises consultation and conferences for informed policy making at multilateral, regional, national and sub-national levels. Centad is currently looking for a suitable candidate for the post of Research Fellow.

Key Responsibilities:

• Contribute proactively to building the brand equity and credible profile of Centad in the South Asia region.
• Undertake and coordinate policy and programme research and consultancy on major trade and development issues in South Asia within Centad's mandate. This would, among other activities, include preparation of project proposals; collection, collation, analysis and dissemination of data and information; field-level research studies on the impact of various trade policies on development processes and the lives of the poor; and production of research papers.
• Take lead responsibility in conducting and coordinating research and mobilisation on Trade and Development issues. Take on other research themes as per the requirements of Centad.
• Assist in developing networks/alliances of civil society organisations, peoples' movements, trade unions, industry associations, media and other stakeholders with a shared understanding of specific trade issues, for advocacy and popular mobilisation.
• Explore opportunities to work with key stakeholders - government departments, international organisations, donor agencies, research institutions and civil society organisations to enhance the effectiveness of Centad's research and advocacy initiatives.
• Organise workshops, conferences, seminars, etc to build the capacity of key stakeholders and demystify trade and development issues to encourage informed public discourses.

Skills and Competence:

• Advanced degree in social sciences, preferably economics, law or management, with good understanding of international trade.
• Knowledge of national and international research institutes on trade and development, and familiarity with government policies on related issues.
• Understanding of economic development issues and knowledge of the role of NGOs in development and advocacy work with a good understanding of grassroots and national development policy issues.
• Minimum 5 years of work experience with a strong track record of high quality research publications.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to think innovatively and practically.
• Proven track record of achieving results observing strict deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills with fluency in written and verbal English and at least one major language of the region, preferably Hindi.
• Good interpersonal skills and ability to work as member of a diverse, multi-cultural team.
• Sensitivity to gender and diversity issues.
• Ability and willingness to travel in the region.

Interested candidates can send their resume with a covering letter clearly explaining their interest in, and addressing the key competencies for the post. Applications should be sent to centad@centad.org clearly quoting the job title in the subject line of the email. Kindly mention your contact number in the mail.

Closing Date: July 7, 2008

Short-listed candidates will be contacted by phone for the interview. Outstation candidates will be suitably reimbursed. At Centad we are committed to ensuring diversity and gender equity within our organisation and strongly welcome applications from women and under represented groups.