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Researcher - Studies in Poverty and Inequality Institute (SPII)

Studies in Poverty and Inequality Institute (SPII) is a non-profit research and advocacy think tank committed to advancing the Constitution and the eradication of poverty and inequality in South Africa and the sub-region. 

SPII seeks to appoint a Researcher for our innovative Socio-Economic Rights (SER) Monitoring Tool project, based in Newtown, Johannesburg. Working closely with the South African Human Rights Commission and other partners, the Researcher will undertake SER policy and budget analysis and develop statistical indicators which track the progressive realisation of SERs in South Africa.

This is a one-year fixed-term contract position renewable dependent on performance and funding. Preference will be given to South African candidates, particularly women and historically disadvantaged people.

Skills and experience required:
• Masters degree in human rights/constitutional law, politics, economics, development or related field. 
• Understanding of international human rights law and the South African constitutional framework, particularly in relation to socio-economic rights.
• At least three years work experience and a familiarity working in or with the non-profit/public interest law/human rights sectors.
• Experience in professional report writing and conducting independent research.
• Communication skills: confidence to speak in public and with stakeholders.
• Motivated to work independently and as a member of a small team.
• Demonstrated ability in taking the initiative and a proactive approach to work.
• Commitment to the values of SPII and a passion for social justice and the full realisation of socio-economic rights.
• A valid driver’s license is an advantage, the ability to travel is essential. 
• Fluency in spoken and written English is essential. An ability to speak at least one African language is an advantage.

Candidates with advanced skills in one or more of the following areas are particularly encouraged to apply:
• Social science data analysis using relevant software (e.g. STATA)
• Human rights policy analysis
• Human rights budget analysis

Responsibilities:
• Working with the project leader: develop and publish innovative research reports on the progressive realisation of SERs; ensure reports have maximum impact on policy and decision-makers and contribute to SER advocacy in South Africa.
• Carry out in-depth, independent research on policy development around SERs.
• Develop statistical indicators for SERs that can be tracked and monitored over time. This will include:
o Desktop research to identify key reporting formats and indicators that exist, both internationally and domestically;
o Conducting interviews with right-specific experts, policy makers and civil society organisations;
o Verification of data sources and ongoing collaboration with statistical agencies and other data sources;
o Population of indicators and visualisation for presentation in reports.
• Conduct human rights budget analyses. This will include:
o Right-specific budget analysis;
o National and provincial budget analysis, focusing on SERs line departments;
o Ongoing collaboration with organisations involved in human rights budget work and advocacy.
• Engage in networking and profile raising of SPII and the SER Monitoring Tool by participating in relevant workshops, conferences and stakeholder meetings.
• Identify strategic new areas of enquiry and advocacy for SPII.
• Develop funding proposals and other reports as requested by management.
• Provide ad hoc assistance to other or new work within SPII.

Apply by: 9am Monday 25 May 2015

Salary: R270,000 – R290,000 total cost to company, dependent on qualifications and experience.

Start date: Wednesday 01 July 2015

To apply: submit a short CV, two examples of research writing and a motivation letter to fortunate@spii.org.za by 9am on Monday 25 May 2015. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted by 27 May for an interview.

For more information on SPII visit www.spii.org.za.