Research Analyst

Role: Research Analyst

Remuneration: PKR 125,000 - 150,000 per month

About Us:

Cynosure is a globally recognized International Development Consultancy Firm that provides high-quality research and management services to renowned clients, including the United Nations (UNDP, UNICEF, WFP, UNEP, ILO, FAO, UNIDO), the World Bank, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and other international donors, NGOs, and financial institutions. With a proven track record of working in over 70 countries across six continents, we are a trusted partner dedicated to delivering innovative solutions and advisory services in the development sector.

We are currently seeking professionals who want to build a long-term career in the development sector at the international level and work on innovative development sector programmes in the fields of climate change, governance and policymaking, gender equality, and human rights among many others.

Role Overview:

The Research Analyst will be responsible for conducting research and preparing high-quality reports, manuscripts, and related documentation tailored to institutional clients such as UNDP, World Bank, Asian Development Bank (ADB), government agencies, and international NGOs. This role involves synthesizing information from literature reviews, data collection activities, and analysis to produce well-structured and impactful reports that meet client requirements and industry standards.

This role offers a fast-track pathway for building multisectoral technical expertise and strategic insights while gaining global exposure by collaborating with a range of international development agencies and organizations. It is well-suited for individuals looking to develop strong capabilities in undertaking evaluations and business development, providing a foundation for a long-term career in international development consulting. Our work culture resembles that of a startup, offering you challenging yet exciting opportunities to contribute directly to the company’s growth while also accelerating your personal and professional growth.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Data Collection and Research
   • Conduct thorough literature reviews and desk reviews of relevant documents, preparing detailed and accurate notes and summaries to gather initial insights and contextual information.
   • Participate in data collection activities and analyse data collected using qualitative and quantitative methods to extract insights and trends, including in tabular and visual formats, fact sheets, graphs, infographics, etc.
2. Report Writing & Formatting
   • Develop clear, concise, and well-structured report sections based on data collected and analysed, ensuring all findings and recommendations are thoroughly documented.
   • Obtain management approvals by reviewing, revising, and editing report sections with the Team Leader.
   • Coordinate with other team members to integrate visuals and ensure cohesive report formatting.
   • Ensure final submission is compliant with client needs and requests.
3. Project Management and Coordination
   • Coordinate with support staff, individual consultants, and clients for project execution.
   • Meet deadlines by establishing priorities and target dates for information gathering, writing, review, and approval; and coordinating requirements with contributors.
   • Develop cross-functional capacities and provide support to the proposal development process, on a need basis.

Key Requirements:

• An individual with a Master’s degree in Social Sciences, International Development, International Relations, Political Science, or related field with an emphasis on research in their academic careers.
• Familiarity and experience in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.
• At least 2 years of experience in report writing, preferably within the international development sector.
• Excellent research, analytical, and technical writing skills; prior experience in Technical/Analytical report writing is a must.
• Excellent knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
• Ability to summarize complex documents and align reports and other knowledge products to client compliance requirements.
• Familiarity with report formatting and design principles.
• Ability and willingness to work overtime when deadlines approach.
• Comfortable with continuous quality management, process improvement, coordination, and strategic planning mechanisms.
• Enjoys working in a fast-paced team environment, with proven ability to prioritize multiple tasks and work efficiently and independently, and within a strict deadline-oriented environment.
• Self-starter who is willing to invest in their rapid self-growth.
• Disposition to work in small and dynamic teams.

What We Offer:

At Cynosure, we foster a work environment that values independence, initiative, and creativity. This is an exciting opportunity for those who enjoy working in a multi-sectoral environment and who want to contribute to impactful global projects. You will have the opportunity to grow personally and professionally by working alongside global development experts, solving real-world challenges, and continuously learning on the job.

We offer:

• Competitive remuneration and comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• A robust performance-based bonus scheme tied to the number of projects executed.
• Flexible working hours and a hybrid work model – work from home one day a week (Wednesday) to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Support in attending relevant training and networking events.
• An empowering and collaborative team culture, where your ideas and contributions are highly valued.

Note: This position is based in our Islamabad (Pakistan) office.

How to Apply: If you are a highly organized, creative, and motivated individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment, we invite you to apply via LinkedIn or by sending your CV to careers@cynosure-consultants.com. Please include the position title in the subject line of your email.

We look forward to hearing from you!