UK/ Remote
Part-time (40-60% LOE)
The Cross-Border Conflict Evidence, Policy and Trends (XCEPT) research programme seeks a part-time (40-60% LOE) Research Director (RD). XCEPT brings together world-leading experts and local researchers to examine conflict-affected borderlands, how conflicts connect across borders, and the drivers of violent and peaceful behaviour. Funded by UK aid, XCEPT offers rigorous, actionable research to inform policies and programmes that support peace.
The RD will serve as a thought leader for the programme, working alongside the XCEPT programme management team and lead research partners to set research direction and deliver high-quality, policy-relevant programme outputs. RD responsibilities will include:
- Convening the XCEPT Research Directorate to develop cross-cutting themes and coordinate on outputs that impact on policy, practice and academic discourse.
- Synthesising XCEPT programme research, including conducting related independent research, and developing an XCEPT special issue journal output
- Presenting XCEPT research in academic, public and policy spheres, including representing the programme at high-level international conferences.
- Expanding XCEPT research networks, leveraging professional connections in policy and academia.
- Shaping XCEPT Research Fund thematic commissioning and participating in award evaluation and review.
- Advising XCEPT researchers in delivery of rigorous research and quality assurance of outputs.
We are looking for candidates with the following key skills and experiences:
- PhD degree or equivalent experience in a relevant discipline such as international affairs, international development, or political science, with a focus on research in conflict settings, serious organised crime, gender and social inclusion in fragile and conflict-affected settings, or other related fields. Preference for research experience in the Middle East, North Africa, the Horn of Africa and the Sahel and/or Asia.
- Demonstrable professional development in academia, policy, or international development practice.
- Demonstrated thought leadership across academic, policy, and practitioner communities to achieve actionable outcomes in development and conflict settings.
- A strong track record of academic publications, including in top-tier peer-reviewed journals.
- Track record of delivering research for high-level policy audiences.
- Expertise in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, in particular the design and implementation of research in conflict-affected settings.
- Experience supporting researchers of varied experience and backgrounds, including researchers originating from non-Western contexts, working in unstable areas, or operating with limited institutional support.
- Ability to review and critically appraise data and empirical literature to an academic standard.
- Familiarity with diverse research methods a plus, including the use of satellite and other open data and AI capabilities.
To apply please click on the ‘Apply’ button above