Knowledge Platform Expert – PhD Economist (Consultancy)

Background

The AERC is an economic think tank focused on advancing high-quality research and policy engagement in Africa and seeks to employ a PhD – level Economist as a Knowledge Platform Expert. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in economic research, policy analysis, and academic publishing, with a track record of publishing in prestigious academic journals. The expert will work on thematic areas critical to Africa’s economic development and facilitate impactful policy dialogues that foster actionable change. Specifically, the expertis expected to provide support to AERC in knowledge brokering and the engagement of alumni and African policy makers and organizing workshops and Platform meetings in Africa. In addition, the role is expected to enhance the quality of research and its translation to policy for a clear pathway to policy engagement and impact by closely working with relevant stakeholders in Africa.

Objectives of the Role

The Knowledge Platform Expert will contribute to the organization’s mission of conducting rigorous, policy-relevant economic research and building a knowledge platform that influences policy decisions and drives economic transformation in Africa. The expert will focus on advancing key thematic areas, publishing research in peer-reviewed journals, and actively coordinating and participating in high-level policy dialogues to ensure that research findings lead to significant policy impacts.

Key Responsibilities

Management of the knowledge platform and related key activities

• Identify and draft an overview of existing knowledge for policy on the key themes selected by the Platform (e.g. digitisation, labour markets, youth and women empowerment…etc).
• Summarize and synthesize existing research evidence/knowledge and knowledge generated in the current phase and share this knowledge in accessible and desired ways in consultation with stakeholders including. policy makers, practitioners, and Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) to facilitate knowledge exchange. The synthesized knowledge includes both INCLUDE and AERC Research
• Lead the establishment of new African Policy Dialogues (APDs) (At least two annually). The dialogues are expected to be research-led/driven and their contents should be informed by prior consultation with stakeholders (e.g. policy makers in relevant government ministries) and anchored on immediate and vexing policy priorities for the countries in question.
• Raise the profile of APDs through strategic partnerships and collaboration with other evidence informed institutions (e.g. think tanks) in Africa.
• Organize and facilitate debate and discussion on selected themes under the auspices of African Policy Dialogues (APDs).
• Organize and facilitate a series of APDs activities (including policy relevant research and synthesis reports) and knowledge products on inclusive development themes.
• Identify and provide support in minimizing language, cultural and timeline barriers that could prevent a meaningful exchange between knowledge generators and policy makers.
• Proactively engage and seek strategic partnerships with (other) multilateral and bilateral (donor) agencies, knowledge networks and funding agencies in collaboration with AERC resources mobilization to enable the financial sustainability of the Platform.
• Keep clean records on the key activities (e.g. workshops) and their outcomes as carried out under the platform.
• Work closely with the Research Department Team lead by the Director of Research.
• Carry out any other duties as may be requested by the Director of Research

Research and Knowledge Generation

• Conduct high-quality, original research on various economic themes relevant to Africa’s development challenges (e.g., labour markets, climate change, , trade, fiscal policy, poverty alleviation, sustainable development, etc.).
• Develop in-depth research papers, policy briefs, and reports based on evidence, which contribute to both academic literature and practical policy solutions.
• Collaborate with other researchers, institutions, and think tanks to advance knowledge in key thematic areas and ensure comprehensive analysis of economic issues.

Publishing and Academic Contribution

• Publish research findings in reputable international academic journals, ensuring quality and impact.
• Present research at academic conferences, workshops, and seminars to share findings and receive peer feedback.
• Build a research agenda that aligns with the organization’s strategic goals and enhances its academic reputation.

Visibility of the Knowledge Platform and AERC

• Establish visibility links with the African Union (AU) Secretariat, ECA, UNDP, UNCTAD.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of a comprehensive knowledge platform that disseminates research outputs, best practices, and policy-relevant insights.
• Enhance the visibility and reach of the knowledge platform through outreach activities, writing regular blogs (e.g. bimonthly), webinars, and other channels, ensuring that research findings are accessible to a wide range of stakeholders.
• Invoke the full range of social media channels to enhance visibility and outreach

Strategic Planning and Advisory

• Contribute to the development of the AERC’s strategic priorities and research agenda, ensuring alignment with broader economic trends and policy needs in Africa.
• Advise senior management on key policy developments, emerging economic trends, and implications for future research and engagement.

Qualifications/person specification

• Education: PhD in Economics or a closely related field from a reputable institution.
• Experience: At least 10 years of post-PhD experience in economic research, preferably in an academic, research institute, or think tank environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to publish in high-impact, peer-reviewed academic journals.
  • Experience in policy analysis, policy advocacy, and engaging with policymakers.
  • Proven ability to facilitate policy dialogues and conduct research that influences public policy.
• Skills:
  • Strong quantitative and qualitative research skills, with proficiency in econometrics and statistical software (e.g., STATA, R, Python, etc.).
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to present complex research findings to both academic and non-academic audiences.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Strong networking and relationship-building skills, particularly with policymakers, donors, and other stakeholders.

Key Competencies

• Analytical Thinking: Strong problem-solving skills, with an ability to synthesize complex data and present actionable policy recommendations.
• Communication Skills: Excellent ability to convey research findings clearly and persuasively, both in writing and orally.
• Policy Impact: Strong understanding of the African policy environment and experience in translating research into practical, impactful policy solutions.
• Collaboration: Ability to collaborate with other researchers, government officials, international organizations, and civil society to maximize the impact of research.

Performance Indicators

• Research Output: Number and quality of research papers published in peer-reviewed journals (e.g. over the last 5 years i.e. 2020-2024)
• Policy Influence: Number of policy dialogues organized, and the tangible impact of research findings on policy decisions.
• Knowledge Platform Engagement: Growth in knowledge platform usage and the dissemination of research outputs.
• Networking and Partnerships: Number of new partnerships or collaborations with international research institutions, universities, and policymakers.

How to apply

Interested candidates should submit:

• A cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience.
• A current CV.
• A research portfolio or list of publications.
• Contact information for at least two professional references.

Deadline for applications: 9th February 2025

Apply using this Link: Knowledge Platform Expert – PhD Economist (Consultancy) – AERC