Senior Research Officer – MSNA – Global (Dakar)

About the role

The Senior Research Officer will join the Global MSNA Team of the Research Systems Unit, based in Dakar, to support the design and implementation of Multi‑Sectoral Needs Assessments (MSNAs) worldwide. The role focuses on the MSNA Training and Certification Programme and provides direct support to country teams, with up to 30 % travel for deployments and regional meetings.

Key responsibilities

• Map existing MSNA guidance, identify gaps and develop missing training and implementation resources.
• Co‑create and maintain the MSNA Practitioner’s Manual and the training curriculum across certification tiers.
• Coordinate development and iterative improvement of MSNA online courses, including foundational, sampling, data collection and analysis modules.
• Design and co‑deliver MSNA training workshops, lessons‑learned sessions and the annual Global MSNA workshop.
• Act as primary focal point for assigned MSNA countries, providing monthly check‑ins, quality assurance reviews and surge support during critical phases of the research cycle.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in a relevant discipline such as development studies, humanitarian studies, international relations, research methods or social sciences.
• Minimum 2 years experience in the humanitarian sector or field‑based roles in fragile or development contexts.
• Proven experience designing and implementing large‑scale quantitative surveys or humanitarian needs assessments.