Career Opportunities

The Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA) is seeking a qualified and motivated Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) Officer to support the design and implementation of monitoring, evaluation, and learning frameworks for the Centre’s research and policy engagement activities. 

The MERL Officer will play a key role in tracking progress, assessing impact, and ensuring accountability and continuous learning across projects. They will lead the development and implementation of data reporting and visualization processes, including the design of systems and tools for effective monitoring. The Officer will also support teams across the organization through training and capacity building to ensure data quality and the integration of insights into strategic decision-making. 

CSEA is a non-profit think tank based in Abuja, Nigeria, that conducts independent evidence-based research. Our objective is to enhance development outcomes in Africa through evidence-based research.

Key Responsibilities
-Develop and implement robust Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning frameworks, tools, and indicators aligned with project objectives and institutional goals.
-Lead the collection, analysis, and interpretation of both quantitative and qualitative data to assess project performance, outcomes, and impact.
-Support the integration of MERL components into project design, implementation, and reporting processes to ensure evidence-based programming.
-Coordinate internal evaluations and contribute to the design, management, and review of external evaluation processes.
-Produce timely, accurate, and user-friendly MERL reports and dashboards for internal learning, donor reporting, and external communication.
-Synthesize findings and lessons learned to inform strategic decision-making and promote a culture of continuous learning across the organization.
-Document and disseminate innovative strategies, best practices, and research insights for institutional learning and policy engagement.
-Design and implement data quality assurance protocols, and ensure proper documentation, storage, and accessibility of MERL outputs.
-Provide technical assistance, training, and mentorship to staff and partners to build organizational capacity in MERL approaches and tools.
-Collaborate with program and communications teams to ensure that research findings and evaluation outcomes are effectively communicated to internal and external stakeholders.

Qualifications and Experience
-Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Statistics, Data Science, Development Studies, Public Policy, or other relevant social science discipline  (Master’s degree is an advantage).
-Post graduate qualification or additional training in Monitoring and Evaluation will
be an added advantage.
-Minimum of 5 years of experience in MERL, preferably in a research or policy organization.
-Strong quantitative and qualitative research skills, with demonstrated experience in designing and implementing MEL frameworks.
-Familiarity with data collection and analysis tools, including surveys, focus group discussions,  key informant interviews, and participatory approaches
-Ability to develop MEL plans, indicator tracking tables, and contribute to learning and adaptive management processes.
-Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex data into clear, actionable insights.Strong organizational and project management skills, including ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and produce high-quality deliverables.
-Experience developing capacity through training and/or mentoring.
-Familiarity with data analysis software (e.g., Excel, SPSS, Stata, or NVivo) and visualization tools (e.g., Power BI or Tableau). 
-Familiarity with data management platforms such as DHIS2, DevResults, or similar digital MERL systems is an added advantage.

How to Apply
• Interested candidates should submit the following:
• A cover letter (maximum one page) outlining suitability for the role.
• A detailed CV highlighting relevant experience.
• Contact details of two referees.

Applicants are encouraged but not required to include a sample of relevant data analysis, dashboard, or visualization work (e.g., Power BI, Tableau, Google Sheets, or written report) that demonstrates their MERL or research skills. If samples are confidential, a brief written description of the work and tools used is acceptable.

Send applications to: [email protected] with the subject line “APPLICATION: Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) OFFICER” by June 12th, 2025.

*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis*.

Additional Information
This is an onsite role, the successful candidate is expected to work from CSEA’s office
in Abuja, Nigeria.
 

The Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA) is seeking for dedicated and skilled professionals to join our team as Senior and Associate Editors. If you are passionate about advancing research in key development sectors, we invite you to contribute to our mission of publishing high-quality, impactful research.

CSEA is a non-profit think tank conducting independent, high-quality, evidence-based research on economic and development issues in Africa.

Our research work cuts across six strategic thematic areas: Macroeconomics and Public Financial Management; Human Capital Development; Trade and Investment; Poverty Reduction and Inclusive Growth; Global Economic Governance and Environment, Natural Resources and Energy.

As an Editor, you will play a key role in guiding the Centre’s editorial and review processes. Editors will be responsible for a rigorous review of all written work before publication or submission. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Overseeing the review and editorial process to ensure the publication of high-quality documents including research papers, proposals and project reports.
• Providing critical evaluations of submitted documents to enhance the quality of proposals and published work.
• Collaborating closely with authors to improve the clarity, coherence, and impact of their research.
• Ensuring that all publications adhere to CSEA’s editorial guidelines and standards.
• Checking for grammatical errors, typos, inconsistencies in style, and factual accuracy.
• Reviewing each line of text for clarity, conciseness and adherence to style guides.

Required Qualifications:

• At least a bachelor’s degree in English, English Literature, Journalism, Communications, or any other related field.
• A proven track record/portfolio of published research and/or editorial experience, particularly within the disciplines of Economics, Finance, and International Development.
• Demonstrated knowledge in the thematic areas relevant to CSEA’s work, including economic development, policy research, and other related fields.

Proficiency:

• Attention to detail.
• High level of efficiency, with excellent time management, communication, organisational skills, and the ability to work to meet deadlines.
• High level of written language skills, and commitment to the publication/submission of excellent documents.
• Awareness of changes in the research policy space and a flexible and collaborative working style.

Application Process:

To apply, please submit the following documents to [email protected] by March 14, 2025:

• An updated resume highlighting editorial roles.
• A cover letter outlining your qualifications, previous editorial experience, and interest in the role.
• Relevant examples of past editorial work.

Additional Information:

• This is an onsite role, with the expectation that Editors will work from CSEA’s office in Abuja, Nigeria. We are willing to consider hybrid or remote work arrangements based on the level of experience and expertise.

The Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA) invites researchers interested in working in Sub-Saharan Africa to be a part of a dynamic research team that is working on the most pertinent development issues in Africa to inform both policy and practice and influence change.

CSEA is a non-profit think tank based in Abuja, Nigeria, that conducts independent evidence-based research. Our objective is to enhance development outcomes in Africa through evidence-based research.

Research roles available include full-time positions for a research associate and a research assistant. Please note that these positions are strictly non- remote.

The roles will expose candidates to applied development policy research covering topics in our six thematic areas, including: global economic governance; trade and investment; macroeconomics and public financial management; environment, natural resources, and energy; human capital development; and poverty reduction and inclusive growth.

In addition, the roles provide an opportunity to contribute to policy-relevant research on development issues in Africa in general and Nigeria in particular.

**THIS OPPORTUNITY IS CLOSED**

Tobacco Control Data Initiative- Research Manager

Background

CSEA, a non-profit research think tank based in Abuja, Nigeria, invites highly motivated and experienced candidates interested in working in Sub-Saharan Africa to contribute to the design, implementation, and facilitation of the Tobacco Control Data Initiative (TCDI) platform.

CSEA is a leading think tank in Africa on Tobacco Control Research and has continued to advocate for the use of evidence-informed policy around tobacco control in Africa. These impact-driven strategies and activities have over the years helped to stimulate rigorous debates on the effects of tobacco on the economy and health sectors.

CSEA won the bid to lead the TCDI 2.0 initiative across six African countries. The TCDI aims to supply sub-Saharan African governments, civil society, and academia with improved access to country-specific data that will inform better tobacco control policy design and implementation.

About the Role:

As the Research Manager, you will support the management of TCDI 2.0 across seven African countries and help in building partnerships to facilitate uptake and capacity development among CSOs and policymakers in Africa. You will also support government engagement and collaborations with diverse stakeholders.

The Research Manager’s role may include but are not limited to the following:

• Support in managing the dedicated platforms on Tobacco Control Data Initiative.
• Manage relationships with stakeholders:  Work with relevant government officials, research firms and other tobacco control experts in Africa.
• Lead in the development of a sustainability plan that details expansion into additional countries.
• Organize research dissemination events, such as country data launches or workshops promoting the information available in TCDI.
• Releasing impact surveys.
• Lead research and survey efforts around tobacco control research in seven focus countries.
• Develop and document appropriate research methodologies and methods, evaluation strategies, and research tools or ideas for further investigation.
• Execute other duties that may be required.
• Lead in the development of data collection protocols where primary data collection is needed.
• Lead in conducting desktop research, and using books, journal articles, newspaper sources, and other sources to gather data.
• Lead in the selection and contracting of research firms that will support data collection in the respective countries.
• Lead in the development of manuscripts across the focus countries.
• Lead in developing policy briefs in the respective countries.
• Working effectively with team members, partners, funders, and other stakeholders; overseeing the delivery of high-quality research; and ensuring that they make an impact on policy and practice.
• Execute other duties that may be required.

Required skills and experience

CSEA seeks candidates with the following:

• PhD in Economics, public policy, international development, statistics, public health or other relevant disciplines with a minimum of 5 years relevant experience conducting cross-country research or programme management. We encourage applications from candidates, particularly those with expertise in related fields such as public health, public policy, international development, or other relevant social science disciplines.
• Demonstrated expertise and familiarity with health research (or other public program areas) in Global South contexts, along with hands-on experience working in Sub-saharan Africa. Preference will be given to candidates with a demonstrated history of successful collaboration with NGOs, governments, and/or health system actors.
• Demonstrates experience in conducting research and policy-level analysis Demonstrates broad knowledge of economic policy development; demonstrates strong analytical skills and writing ability to help identify and assess policy issues in support of policy dialogue.
• Operational project management: Demonstrates broad knowledge of project management tools and methodologies; identifies risks and mitigation measures; interprets background analysis and proposed solutions.
• Communication: Provides clear and concise oral and written communication; presents oral information with clarity and appropriate style and adapts language and style to suit the requirements of a particular audience.
• Team working and relations: Works with others to maximize the effectiveness of the team as a whole, sharing the kn,owledge and workload. Develops strong working relationships with colleagues and contributes to the creation of a positive team environment. Ability to work and cooperate with others from diverse backgrounds; demonstrated the mature sense of judgment.
• Excellent organizational, analytical and coordination skills. Ability to work accurately, methodically and to meet deadlines.
• Competence in the use of office software packages, experience in handling web-based management systems and advanced programmes for statistical analysis of data.

Competencies

• Ability to lead strategic planning, results-based management and reporting.
• Ability to lead formulation and evaluation of development programmes and projects.
• Ability to contribute to CSEA Practice Areas and actively work towards continuing personal learning and development.
• Ability to provide top quality policy advice services on tobacco control and related issues.
• Demonstrate creativity and innovation.
• Leads teams effectively and shows conflict resolution skills.

Reporting

The Research Manager will report directly to the Director of Research at CSEA and will work closely with members of the team at Development Gateway and CSEA, and is expected to work from CSEA offices in Abuja, Nigeria.

**THIS OPPORTUNITY IS CLOSED**