Research Specialist – Program Measurement

International Justice Mission

24d•Hybrid

About The Position

International Justice Mission (IJM) is the global leader in protecting vulnerable people from violence around the world. Our team of over 1,200 professionals are at work worldwide in over 30 offices. Together we are on a mission to rescue millions, protect half a billion, and make justice unstoppable. We are a global community that cares for one another. We believe that the way we work is as important as the results we achieve. We provide professional excellence with joy and celebration to all those we serve. The Need For over 25 years, IJM has pioneered the work to protect vulnerable people from violence. 9 out of 9 times in the last decade, IJM’s Justice System Strengthening Projects have reduced slavery and violence between 50 and 85% for very large populations of people in poverty. As we grow to expand our impact to protect 500 million people from violence, we are seeking a Research Specialist for the South Asia region (internal title: Manager, Program Measurement). This role ensures that evidence and learning are integrated across all programmatic areas, supports technical capacity building, and fosters collaboration with internal teams and external partners to advance justice system transformation in South Asia. They will serve as key experts for IJM South Asia’s research portfolio across India and Bangladesh. This position is based in the Washington, DC area and is available to be hybrid (onsite Tuesdays & Thursdays). It reports to the Regional Director, Program Resourcing & Advancement, and is only available for candidates with the right to work in the US.

Requirements

Graduate degree in a relevant discipline with formal training in research methods required; PhD preferred
At least 8 years of professional experience conducting research in complex program environments
Demonstrated expertise in research design, methodology, sampling, and implementation
Experience applying experimental or quasi‑experimental research designs
Background working on issues related to forced labor, modern slavery, or other hidden or vulnerable populations
Proven experience serving as a principal investigator or lead researcher for studies conducted in South Asia
Hands‑on field research experience in South Asia (India or Bangladesh) preferred, including experience working in comparable contexts
Prior experience managing adverse events in research studies and ensuring compliance with ethical research standards
Demonstrated ability to apply current and emerging research methods related to forced labor, modern slavery, or hidden populations, with a strong eye for innovation
Ability to design research that accounts for real‑world operating conditions and adapt plans when ideal conditions are not available
Proven track record of generating meaningful, actionable insights that inform program decisions and strengthen outcomes
Strong communication skills with the ability to translate complex research for executive, technical, and non‑technical audiences
Experience collaborating effectively across diverse teams and working within a matrixed environment
Experience publishing peer‑reviewed research and presenting at academic or industry conferences
Demonstrated commitment to ethical research standards and responsible data practices
Experience developing and managing research budgets, timelines, and project schedules
Eager commitment to IJM's Core Values: Christian, Professional and Bridge-Building
Exceptional collaborator with diverse teams from various backgrounds – including technical and non-technical staff
Exceptional negotiation, problem-solving, and stakeholder management skills
High credibility with staff and partners

Nice To Haves

PhD preferred
Hands‑on field research experience in South Asia (India or Bangladesh) preferred, including experience working in comparable contexts

Responsibilities

Lead the prioritization, design, and implementation of the regional research agenda across South Asia projects.
Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to strengthen MERL systems and ensure alignment with country strategies and global standards.
Build credibility for IJM’s research by engaging academic partners, industry experts, and other key audiences.
Adapt the research agenda as needed to reflect updates in IJM’s global vision, mission, and strategic priorities.
Coordinate with IJM’s Global Measurement Team on research policies, standards, and guidance.
Partner closely with global measurement teams, program staff, subject matter experts, and external collaborators on research initiatives.
Support dissemination of IJM South Asia research findings and elevate visibility of the portfolio.
Represent IJM in relevant research forums, networks, and communities of practice.
Develop and strengthen partnerships with research institutions and organizations across the region.
Participate in IJM’s community of spiritual formation as part of organizational life.
Provide technical guidance on research data security, documentation, storage, and disposal practices aligned with organizational standards.
Review and refine research-related policies to ensure consistency with industry best practices.
Translate research findings into actionable policy recommendations that strengthen justice system responses and reduce targeted crimes.
Train or coordinate training for staff on research methods, tools, sampling approaches, data management, and analysis.
Contribute to broader training efforts related to measurement, project management, and other core areas connected to research standards.
Provide technical guidance for protection studies across IJM South Asia.
Support additional research projects outside protection studies by offering methodological and technical expertise.
Participate in research steering committees and oversight bodies for specific studies.
Ensure research partners deliver high-quality outputs and reports.
Provide strategic insights on how research should inform program design, planning, and implementation.
Collaborate with South Asia Communications and MERL teams to ensure accuracy and clarity in research-related communications.
Conduct comparative analyses across studies to identify trends, innovations, and improvement opportunities.
Lead or support research initiatives and learning activities that advance program excellence.
Perform data analysis for research studies and program datasets.
Assess evidence and insights to inform strategic decision-making and strengthen program quality and impact.
Provide subject matter expertise and support for South Asia research initiatives as requested.