CDRI is an independent policy research institute working to produce independent, objective, high quality policy-relevant development research, to maximise its accessibility to policy makers, influencers and stakeholders and to have it affect policy in five interrelated areas: (i) Policy Research in Agriculture and Rural Development; (ii) Development Economics and Trade; (iii) Educational Research and Innovation; (iv) Natural Resource and Environment; and (v) Governance and Inclusive Society.
CDRI undertakes its programmes and projects in partnership with Cambodian government institutions and their international development partners, other research and tertiary education institutions and civil society organisations. It disseminates its research knowledge and products through a number of communication strategies: conferences, workshops, seminars, broadcast media, print media, library collection and information sharing, small group communication and interpersonal communication.
CDRI is located in the suburb of Tuol Kork, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. It has around 60-70 staff including management, professional and technical staff, administrative and support staff, all of them are Cambodian. It has a strong commitment to the capacity development and professional skills of its staff, many of whom, after being trained at CDRI, go on to contribute to other Cambodian and international organisations involved in their country’s development.
CDRI is seeking to recruit a highly qualified and experienced Senior Researcher in Public Policy/Administration to join CDRI-wide research programmes. S/he will work closely with CDRI research centres to lead and conduct in-depth research in public policy, public sector management, governance and administration to inform evidence-based policy recommendations in the Cambodian context.
Key roles and responsibilities
– Conducts and leads thorough research in public administration, including public policy, governance and administration in Cambodia.
– Assess the effectiveness of current public administration policies, frameworks, and practices in Cambodia.
– Reviews and analyses existing government policies and strategies across sectors to identify research gaps.
– Produces well-written, accurate, and timely research reports and analytics for policymakers and both internal and external stakeholders to inform policies.
– Contributes to or leads the design and implementation of various research outputs and publications, including policy briefs, working papers, research reports, blogs, and international journals.
– Identifies and mobilises new research opportunities and partnerships that align with and support CDRI Strategic Plan.
– Participates or leads in the delivery of internal and external research training and/or capacity building programmes to ensure ongoing learning and development of CDRI junior researchers.
– Participate in conferences, seminars, and workshops to disseminate research findings and contribute to policy discussions on public administration and governance in Cambodia.
Experience and skills expected of the post holder
– A master’s degree (PhD preferred) in public policy, public administration, political science, governance, development administration, law, or other related fields.
– At least 5-10 years of experience in research or policy analysis in public administration, governance, or public sector management.
– In-depth knowledge of Cambodia’s public administration systems, governance structures, and policy environment.
– Ability to conduct both qualitative and quantitative research.
– A track record of research and academic publication and proposal writing.
– Excellent research, written and oral communication skills in English and Khmer.
– Ability to work independently, lead and coordinate research programmes, and collaborate effectively with a diverse team.
– Highly motivated to learn new skills, optimistic, and passionate about problem-solving with applied knowledge.