RESULTS FOR DEVELOPMENT (R4D) IS RECRUITING A LEAD RESEARCHER – URBAN DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION

RESULTS FOR DEVELOPMENT (R4D) IS RECRUITING A LEAD RESEARCHER – URBAN DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION

Remote Opportunity | African Urban Development Research | Six-Month Assignment

Results for Development (R4D), a global nonprofit development partner, is inviting applications from experienced researchers and practitioners for the position of Lead Researcher – Urban Development and Innovation.

The successful candidate will lead a six-month pilot research study examining 15 to 20 grassroots social innovations in African cities. The research will explore how community-led initiatives and locally developed solutions can contribute to more inclusive and sustainable urban futures.

The assignment forms part of the Urban Futures track of the International Development Innovation Alliance (IDIA), hosted by R4D, with funding from IDIA and the Judith Neilson Foundation (JNF).

LOCATION

Remote. The assignment can be undertaken remotely, and no travel is anticipated.

ABOUT THE ASSIGNMENT

The research aims to highlight innovative solutions developed, operated, or used by residents of informal settlements and people working in the informal economy.

Rather than focusing solely on technology, capital, and conventional urban development models, the study will document community-driven innovations and examine how they emerge, operate, grow, and obtain support or financing.

The findings will help inform funders, grassroots innovators, city governments, and researchers about locally grounded approaches to urban development.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Research Planning and Design

Develop the research methodology, interview guides, case-study templates, safeguarding framework, and consent materials. Establish the research approach in collaboration with IDIA, JNF, and the advisory team.

2. Case Study Selection

Identify and confirm 15 to 20 grassroots urban innovation case studies, ensuring a balance of geographical regions and innovation models.

3. Participatory Research

Work directly with grassroots innovators to co-produce case studies through interviews, written contributions, research, and community-produced photography or film.

4. Analysis and Documentation

Examine the origins, ownership, financing, sustainability, gender considerations, power dynamics, scalability, and potential challenges of the selected innovations.

5. Research Synthesis

Develop a typology of grassroots urban innovations and analyse findings across the case studies while preserving the local context of each initiative.

6. Reporting and Dissemination

Prepare the final research report, policy and funder briefings, and other dissemination materials. Share drafts with contributors for feedback and participate in a planned Skoll World Forum side event.

7. Ethical Research and Safeguarding

Ensure informed consent, appropriate contributor recognition, fair attribution, safeguarding compliance, and ethical use of interviews, photographs, films, and quotations.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Applicants should demonstrate the following essential qualifications and experience.

1. At least five years of experience in urban development and innovation, particularly in African contexts.
2. A strong record of qualitative, participatory, or co-produced research.
3. Direct experience working with grassroots organisations or informal communities.
4. Knowledge of African urban contexts and the ability to work across multiple cities or countries.
5. Experience developing research frameworks, case-study templates, and analytical typologies.
6. Strong research, analytical, writing, and synthesis skills.
7. Experience with informed consent, research ethics, and safeguarding procedures.
8. Ability to manage a small team, coordinate partners, and deliver high-quality work within a limited timeframe and budget.
9. Evidence of contributions to urban futures thinking and the post-2030 development agenda through publications, policy work, or convening.

ADDITIONAL ADVANTAGES

The following experience would strengthen an application.

1. Existing relationships with networks such as Slum/Shack Dwellers International, WIEGO, IIED, IDIA, or JNF portfolio partners.
2. Experience supporting community-produced photography or film.
3. Experience writing research outputs for funders and policymakers.
4. Familiarity with AI tools and the ability to use them in line with agreed research protocols.
5. Lived experience of the urban settings being studied and knowledge of relevant local languages.

CONTRACT DETAILS AND WORKING ARRANGEMENTS

1. Duration: Approximately six months, with final dissemination potentially extending into Month 7.
2. Time Commitment: A maximum expected commitment of 40 working days.
3. Remuneration: A daily professional fee based on the successful candidate’s experience. Applicants must propose their daily fee rate.
4. Location: Remote, with no travel anticipated.
5. Contracting Organisation: Results for Development, acting as the legal host for IDIA.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Interested candidates must submit the following documents and information.

1. Curriculum Vitae: Maximum of two pages.
2. Cover Note: Maximum of two pages, explaining relevant experience against the essential criteria and providing examples of previous work.
3. Earliest Available Start Date: Confirm when you can begin the assignment.
4. Proposed Daily Fee Rate: State your professional fee.

Applicants should clearly demonstrate their experience in African urban development and innovation, particularly their work with grassroots communities and participatory research.

APPLICATION DEADLINE

27 October 2026

HOW TO APPLY

Submit your application through the official Results for Development Business Opportunities page.

Application Link

Download the Terms of Reference (TOR)

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted due to the expected volume of applications. Applicants should consult the official Terms of Reference for complete requirements and any updates before submitting their applications.

Share this opportunity with experienced African researchers, urban development specialists, and practitioners working with grassroots organisations.