The European Roma Rights Centre in Budapest is seeking a researcher to do work with a focus on women’s rights across Europe and a general human rights focus in several countries.
Position Title: Researcher
Reports to: Coordinator of Research and Advocacy
Purpose of the position: The Researcher is responsible for the development and implementation of research and advocacy work in relation to ERRC strategic priorities, by providing human rights research knowledge and know-how, strong analysis and effective communication skills.
Areas of Responsibility: Split focus (50/50% of time) - women’s rights across Europe and general human rights focus in several countries to be determined,
In consultation with the Coordinator of Research and Advocacy, and in accordance with the thematic and country focus of this position:
1. Organise and participate in desk and field research on human rights developments pertaining to Roma, consisting of fact-finding and analysis, including in rapid response to emergencies;
2. Provide timely, accurate and impartial assessment of the human rights situation of Roma;
3. Develop and maintain effective relations with colleagues and external contacts and partners including Romani representatives, other human rights activists and civil society representatives, researchers, governmental and inter-governmental representatives, service providers and lawyers;
4. Write reports, advocacy submissions, letters of concern and other materials for internal use and publication and provide input into materials produced by colleagues;
5. Effectively store and share information and research works within the programmes and legal departments;
6. Stay abreast of international and domestic advocacy opportunities and provide input on which meetings and opportunities the ERRC should seize;
7. Represent the ERRC externally with civil society organisations, governmental and inter-governmental bodies, social, political and other actors, and communicate ERRC positions;
8. Establish individual work plans and monitor progress;
9. Undertake necessary administrative tasks for own work;
10. Contribute to the Roma Rights journal and other ERRC communications tools, as appropriate;
11. Help implement ERRC training programmes, as necessary;
12. Collaborate with ERRC interns and contribute to their learning and development; and
13. Other tasks as requested.
Required experience and skills:
- University degree in human rights, gender studies, social sciences or a related field;
- At least two years experience conducting desk and field research on human rights, women’s rights or related issues;
- Experience writing research and advocacy reports and other materials;
- Significant experience living and working in Romani communities is desirable;
- Advocacy or campaigning experience at local level is a plus;
- Strong English language skills required; knowledge of Russian, Italian, Romanian and/or Romani preferred;
- Strong, clear oral communication skills; ability to represent effectively ERRC positions in public;
- Understanding and sensitivity in dealing with different people and groups including survivors of human rights violations;
- Strong team player; ability to work independently;
- Attentive to deadlines, flexible and able to deal with high workload;
- Willingness to travel for work, either alone or with colleagues;
- Demonstrated commitment to the promotion of Roma rights;
- Proven ability to work in a diverse team.
Remuneration: Based at the ERRC office in Budapest, the remuneration level for this full time position shall be commensurate with experience, ranging between 24,000 - 27,000 EUR gross per year (payable in Hungarian forints). In accordance with the annual budget approved by the board of directors, ERRC employees are provided fringe benefits and access to a professional development fund.
Expected start date: The successful applicant is expected to start no later than the end of September 2010.
How to apply:
Qualified candidates should send the following application materials; persons submitting incomplete application packages will not be considered for the position:
1. Maximum 500 word letter of interest
2. Detailed CV in English;
3. Contact details for two present or former employers (reference should be from immediate supervisor) and one other relevant referee; and
4. An unedited English-language writing sample by the applicant (preferably human rights focused).
Application deadline: 16:00 on 16 August 2010. Applications received after this date will not be considered. Short-listed applicants will be notified within three weeks of the deadline; applicants who are not shortlisted will not be contacted.
The ERRC is committed to equal opportunity for all. Romani candidates are particularly encouraged to apply for this position.
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