Job Title: Research Officer
Organisation: Refugee Law Project (RLP)
Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda
About Organisation:
Refugee Law Project (RLP) is an outreach project of the School of Law, Makerere University. Our Mission is to empower asylum seekers, refugees, deportees, IDPs and host communities to enjoy their human rights and lead dignified lives. The Refugee Law Project has a wide physical presence with offices in Kampala, Hoima, Mbarara, Gulu, Kitgum, Nakivale, Kyangwali, Kiryandongo, Lamwo, Adjumani, Maaji II, Bidibidi (Yumbe), Palorinya (Moyo) and Arua.
Job Summary: The Research Officer is a dynamic and innovative professional responsible for working independently and as part of a team to generate research insights, initiate research topics, and support the overall research agenda of RLP. The ideal candidate will have a strong passion for participatory action research, community engagement, and social change. They will work closely with RLP teams across various thematic areas, including access to justice, mental health and psychosocial support, gender and SRHR, transitional justice, conflict and peace building, memory and memorialisation, reconciliation, and justice. The Research Officer will work with Coordinator of Research and Documentation to lead research and provide research support, input, and expertise to RLP programs, support groups, and partners, while ensuring that research is action-oriented, locally sensitive, and culturally relevant.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
Research Design and Implementation:
- Initiate and design research studies, including developing research questions, methodologies, and data collection tools in collaboration with RLP teams and partners.
- Conduct literature reviews, collect and analyze data, and generate research insights, ensuring participatory and inclusive approaches.
- Work with team members to develop research protocols, survey instruments, and data collection tools.
- Contribute to the development of research proposals and concept notes.
Innovative Research Methods:
- Develop and implement innovative research methods, such as storytelling, art, dance, music, and other creative expressions, to engage young people and vulnerable populations, including victims and survivors of violence.
- Use participatory and inclusive approaches to ensure that research is tailored to the needs and perspectives of diverse populations.
- Collaborate with RLP teams and partners to develop and implement research projects that use non-conventional methods, such as photovoice, digital storytelling, and participatory video.
Data Analysis and Interpretation:
- Analyze qualitative and quantitative data using various data analysis software and techniques.
- Generate meaningful themes, patterns, and recommendations from data, and provide insights to inform programming and policy.
- Verify data quality and ensure accuracy in reporting.
Research Dissemination and Communication:
- Prepare research reports, policy briefs, and other communication products, including audio-visual materials.
- Disseminate research findings to stakeholders, including government, NGOs, and communities, using innovative and engaging methods.
- Engage with media, academia, and other external partners to share research insights.
Community Engagement and Participation:
- Engage with communities and stakeholders to promote research acceptance and participation.
- Assist with obtaining informed consent from research participants, including administering consent forms.
- Build relationships with community leaders and members to facilitate research access and acceptance.
- Support the development of community engagement plans and strategies.
Data Protection and Management:
- Ensure all research data is handled and stored in accordance with RLP’s data protection policies and procedures.
- Support the Research Officer with data management and archiving, including transferring data to secure servers.
- Assist with maintaining confidentiality and anonymity of research participants.
Collaboration and Teamwork:
- Work closely with RLP teams and partners to ensure research projects are completed on time, within budget, and to a high standard.
- Collaborate with data management and archiving teams to ensure data is properly managed and stored.
- Provide support and assistance to other team members as needed.
Qualifications, Skills and Experience:
- Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., social sciences, political science, research, statistics, development studies, or related fields).
- 5 years of experience in research, with a focus on participatory action research and community engagement.
- Excellent organizational and communication skills, with attention to detail and ability to work independently.
- Fluency in English; knowledge of local languages an asset.
- Familiarity with data management software and tools (e.g., NVivo, Excel, SPSS, or R).
Desired Skills and Qualities:
- Passion for research and community engagement, particularly in the context of refugee and host communities.
- Strong understanding of research principles and ethics, including those related to vulnerable populations and sensitive topics.
- Ability to work with diverse populations, including refugees, youth, women, and survivors of gender-based violence.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with ability to engage with stakeholders at all levels.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities, ensuring flexibility and resilience in a dynamic research context.
- Creativity and innovation in research design and methods, particularly in using non- conventional approaches to engage young people and vulnerable populations.
How to Apply:
For all positions listed, please submit a motivation letter, an up-to-date Curriculum Vitae and academic certificates relevant to the position applied for in one PDF Document not exceeding 8 pages. You can include links to your writings in your CV.
Deadline: 12th December 2025.
Applications received after this deadline will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Candidates must be in a position to cover their own travel expenses for interviews.
NOTE
- Applications sent through any other channels will not be considered. For any challenges with the system, reach out to [email protected].
- Refugee Law Project is a human-rights based organization with strong Anti-Discrimination policies.
- Women and Refugees are encouraged to apply
For more of the latest jobs, please visit https://www.theugandanjobline.com or find us on our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UgandanJobline
Level of Education: postgraduate degree
Work Hours: 8
Experience in Months: 60