Iran Researcher - REMOTE
ACLED · EMEA
- Hybrid
- Contract
- $41,600 / year
- EMEA
Job highlights
- Collect and analyze political violence and protest data.
- Work remotely with flexible hours, 25+ hours/week.
- Requires fluency in English and Farsi.
- Entry-level independent consultant role.
- Gain experience in conflict research.
About the role
About ACLED
At ACLED, we provide accurate, accessible and timely data and analysis to better inform decisions that reduce violent conflict. We cover the globe with our data collection and analysis, offering local insights for global questions. We are a remote organization with researchers and partners located across all crises and conflicts.
The Consultancy Opportunity
ACLED is looking for an Iran Researcher to assist in the collection, review and management of political violence and protest data across Iran. Researchers must be available for a minimum of 25 hours per week. This opportunity is fully remote and can be done from any location with reliable internet service.
This is an entry-level, independent consultant opportunity, and may require submissions several times per week and on weekends depending on operational needs. This opportunity is open to nationals of any country.
Collection of data is conducted by reviewing news, international organization, NGO and security reports on a list of assigned countries, and recording the incidents of political violence into an Excel template. Researchers will focus on coding events to provide holistic coverage of current political violence, ranging from protests to battles.
Review and management of data involves ensuring the quality, consistency and reliability of the data produced. The researcher provides team members with experience conducting detail-oriented tasks, and producing and managing quantitative data.
Please note that this opportunity involves working with conflict-related media and reading about violent events.
Specific Deliverables
Candidates who are selected will undergo extensive ACLED training. The training consists of several exercises. Candidates' exercises will be scrutinized and only those who are performing at the required level will be retained as Researchers.
For those selected, the initial consultancy period will be from the end of April to 30 June 2026. After this, continuation may be possible, pending performance and availability of funding.
Remuneration
Remuneration is 20 USD per hour.
Skills and Competencies
- University degree in international relations, political science, conflict studies, peacebuilding, international development, or related field;
- Familiarity with Excel (essential);
- Fluency in English (essential);
- Fluency in Farsi (essential);
- Fluency in Arabic (preferred);
- Experience conducting desk-based research;
- Experience working to deadlines with limited supervision;
- A high level of attention to detail and ability to receive and incorporate feedback;
- Research focus or professional experience in conflict research or peace-building in Middle East generally, or country-specific studies is a strong advantage;
- Familiarity with conflict and actors in the relevant countries;
- Access to a computer, a reliable internet connection, email, and the Microsoft Office Suite.
Key Skills/Competency
- Data Collection
- Data Analysis
- Political Violence
- Protest Data
- Conflict Studies
- Farsi Fluency
- Excel Proficiency
- Desk-Based Research
- Attention to Detail
- Remote Work
Skills & topics
- Iran Researcher
- ACLED
- Remote
- Conflict Research
- Data Analysis
- Political Violence
- Protest Data
- Farsi
- English
- Excel
- International Relations
- Political Science
- Peacebuilding
- Consultant
How to get hired
- Customize your CV: Highlight your research, data management, and Farsi/English fluency.
- Tailor your cover letter: Emphasize your interest in conflict studies and ACLED's mission.
- Demonstrate research skills: Showcase experience with desk-based research and meeting deadlines.
- Prepare for the exercise: Be ready to demonstrate coding aptitude and attention to detail.
- Apply early: Submit your application via the career portal promptly.
Technical preparation
Behavioral questions
Frequently asked questions
- What is the application process for the Iran Researcher role at ACLED?
- To apply for the Iran Researcher position at ACLED, you need to submit a CV and cover letter detailing your qualifications, experience, and language proficiency through their career portal. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to complete a two-hour exercise to assess their coding aptitude. ACLED reviews applications on a rolling basis, so it's advisable to apply as soon as possible.
- What are the minimum weekly hours required for the Iran Researcher position?
- The Iran Researcher position requires a minimum commitment of 25 hours per week. This consultancy opportunity may also require submissions several times per week and on weekends, depending on operational needs.
- What is the expected remuneration for the Iran Researcher role?
- The remuneration for the Iran Researcher position is 20 USD per hour. This is an independent consultant opportunity.
- What academic background is preferred for the Iran Researcher at ACLED?
- ACLED prefers candidates with a university degree in international relations, political science, conflict studies, peacebuilding, international development, or a related field. Experience in conflict research or peace-building, particularly in the Middle East, is also highly advantageous.
- Is fluency in Farsi a mandatory requirement for the ACLED Iran Researcher position?
- Yes, fluency in Farsi is an essential requirement for the Iran Researcher role at ACLED. Fluency in English is also essential, while fluency in Arabic is preferred.
- Can I apply for the Iran Researcher position if I am not from Iran?
- Yes, the Iran Researcher position is open to nationals of any country. ACLED is a remote organization, and this role can be performed from any location with a reliable internet connection.
- What kind of data will I be collecting as an Iran Researcher for ACLED?
- As an Iran Researcher for ACLED, you will collect, review, and manage data on political violence and protests across Iran. This involves coding events from news, international organization, NGO, and security reports into an Excel template, covering incidents ranging from protests to battles.
- Will I receive training for the Iran Researcher role at ACLED?
- Yes, selected candidates will undergo extensive ACLED training. This training includes several exercises designed to assess coding aptitude and ensure performance at the required level before retaining them as Researchers.