• SoCha is seeking a Senior Researcher and Systems Analyst to lead a comprehensive systems and context analysis of the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport Corridor (LAPSSET) project. The analysis will examine the political, economic, and social factors influencing the project’s implementation, aiming to provide insights for conflict-sensitive, equitable, and sustainable development. The study will employ qualitative research methods, including literature reviews, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, to explore stakeholder experiences, governance challenges, and social impacts. The study will be conducted in Garissa County and Lamu County.
• The Senior Researcher and Systems Analyst will oversee research design, planning, and training to ensure a robust methodology and high-quality data collection, while also managing data analysis and reporting to provide actionable insights that guide USAID’s strategic investments, promote inclusive development, and address potential risks and conflict dynamics.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Develop a comprehensive research plan that aligns with study goals, specifying methodology, scope, and deliverables.
• Lead a multidisciplinary team with expertise in governance, gender, conflict analysis, and socio-economic studies to ensure integrated, diverse perspectives.
• Conduct systematic reviews of documents, including government reports, LAPSSET project plans, financial records, and policy frameworks, to establish a foundational understanding.
• Design and refine tools such as interview guides and focus group protocols to ensure accurate and relevant data collection.
• Provide expert guidance during data collection training to ensure enumerators have the necessary skills for accurate data gathering.
• Conduct and oversee interviews and focus group discussions, ensuring inclusivity by involving women, youth, persons with disabilities, and marginalized groups.
• Conduct quality checks during piloting and data collection to identify and address inconsistencies or issues promptly.
• Synthesize primary and secondary data to develop comprehensive, evidence-based conclusions about LAPSSET’s political, social, and economic impacts.
• Use advanced tools to analyze stakeholder power dynamics, identify conflict drivers, and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Provide insights into the interplay of political, economic, and social dynamics, with an emphasis on equity, inclusion, and conflict sensitivity.
• Produce detailed, high-quality reports on stakeholder mapping, governance challenges, conflict prevention, and gender equity opportunities.
• Formulate clear, evidence-based recommendations for USAID, focusing on inclusive practices and sustainable project outcomes.
• Prepare and present findings and strategic recommendations to stakeholders, influencing policy and operational decisions.

Minimum Qualifications and Expertise:

• Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Conflict Studies, Economics, Development Studies, Political Science, or a related field.
• At least 10 years of experience analyzing governance systems, political processes, and their impact on development projects, particularly in politically sensitive or conflict-affected regions.
• Strong background in systems analysis combining political, economic, and social dimensions with conflict and development studies, and assessing the impact of infrastructure projects on local conflict dynamics and governance.
• Skilled in both qualitative and quantitative research, including designing, analyzing, and managing research projects to assess infrastructure’s socio-economic and political effects, especially in marginalized or conflict-prone regions.
• Deep knowledge of governance structures, institutional frameworks, and political dynamics, with proven experience in stakeholder mapping, power dynamics analysis, and facilitating inclusive participation.
• Expertise in integrating gender analysis and promoting social equity in project assessments, ensuring diverse representation and conflict-sensitive approaches.
• Proficiency in using advanced tools and frameworks to analyze governance challenges, conflict drivers, and propose actionable recommendations for sustainable, inclusive outcomes.
• Proven experience in managing or contributing to USAID-funded projects, with familiarity with USAID’s Conflict Assessment Frameworks and operational systems.
• Ability to synthesize primary and secondary data into actionable insights and evidence-based recommendations, with strong communication and presentation skills for engaging stakeholders and policymakers.
• Experience in training enumerators, developing tools, and ensuring data collection accuracy in diverse field settings