Terms of Reference (TORs)

Position: Research Associate
Location: Islamabad
Reporting to: Research Manager

1. Background

Research and Development Solutions is seeking a motivated and skilled Research Associate to support its research and policy initiatives. The role requires a strong foundation in economics (preferably health economics) advanced quantitative analysis, polished writing ability, and excellent communication skills. The candidate must demonstrate dependability, initiative, and integrity in delivering high-quality outputs aligned with organizational objectives.

2. Key Responsibilities

The Research Associate will:

1. Conduct quantitative and qualitative research
2. Manage and analyze large datasets using statistical, econometric and machine leaning tools.
3. Draft high-quality research papers, reports, policy briefs, and publications with minimal supervision.
4. Contribute to the design of research methodologies, data collection tools, and analytical frameworks.
5. Present research findings clearly and persuasively to academic, policy, and public audiences.
6. Collaborate with team members but also work independently to propose and implement solutions to research challenges.
7. Maintain strict confidentiality, honesty, and ethical standards in all work.
8. Engage with stakeholders, partners, and policymakers to disseminate research outcomes.
9. Perform any other tasks assigned by the supervisor in line with the organization’s mandate.

3. Required Qualifications

• Masters/MPhil degree (preferably in Economics, Health economics, or related fields).
• Strong background in quantitative research methods and econometrics.
• Demonstrated publication record (academic journals, policy briefs, or equivalent) indicating polished writing skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Proven ability to work independently, show initiative, and deliver solutions.
• High level of dependability and integrity.
• Proficiency in statistical software (e.g., Stata, R, Python).

4. Desired Competencies

• Ability to simplify complex research findings for non-technical audiences.
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Time management and ability to meet tight deadlines.
• Team-oriented but proactive in working independently.

5. Deliverables

• Research reports, journal papers, and policy briefs.
• Analytical presentations and communication materials.