Lead Researcher – Urban Development and Innovation (Contract / Remote)
R4D seeks a Lead Researcher to run a six-month pilot study of 15–20 grassroots urban innovations in African cities, co-produced with the innovators. Suited to an experienced researcher in urban development and innovation. Remote, up to 40 days
Organization: Results for Development (R4D)
Track: Urban Futures (International Development Innovation Alliance – IDIA & Judith Neilson Foundation – JNF)
Location: Remote
Duration: 6-month pilot study (Approx. 40 days maximum commitment)
Application Deadline: Tuesday, October 27, 2026
Job Summary
Results for Development (R4D) is seeking an experienced Lead Researcher to design and execute a groundbreaking 6-month pilot study. Operating under the IDIA Urban Futures track and funded in partnership with the Judith Neilson Foundation (JNF), this role will investigate 15 to 20 grassroots social innovations across African cities, co-produced directly with local innovators.
The project flips traditional global-north-dominated urban frameworks, focusing instead on resident-anchored solutions within informal settlements and the informal economy. The insights generated will feed into global thought leadership ahead of the UN’s post-2030 development agenda negotiations.
Key Responsibilities & Timeline
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Scoping & Set-Up (Months 1–2): Engage with IDIA and JNF funding partners, confirm editorial governance, finalize interview protocols, case templates, and the six-lens typology (community finance, data/knowledge, care/mutual aid, tenure/land, informal-to-formal bridging, and co-produced services). Shortlist 15–20 diverse case studies.
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Case Co-Production (Months 3–4): Lead participatory research through interviews, written inputs, and community-produced media, ensuring data and stipends are returned fairly to contributors.
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Synthesis & Sharing (Month 5): Synthesize findings into a forward-facing typology, an inverted map of actors, and a comprehensive final report and policy briefing. Participate in a Skoll World Forum side event.
Person Specification
Essential Requirements
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Experience: 5+ years in urban development and innovation, with a strong focus on African contexts and contributions to post-2030 urban futures agendas.
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Research Expertise: Demonstrated track record in qualitative, participatory, or co-produced research centered on informality and community-led development.
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Ethical Commitment: Proven experience working directly with grassroots organizations and informal communities under strict non-extractive, fair-credit protocols.
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Analytical Skills: Ability to design structural frameworks (typologies, templates) and synthesize complex material into clear, accessible writing for policy and funder audiences.
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Project Management: Proven capacity to manage multiple partner inputs, tight timelines, and safeguarding frameworks remotely.
Desirable Qualifications
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Established networks with organizations like Slum/Shack Dwellers International, WIEGO, or IIED.
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Experience commissioning community photography/film and utilizing AI tools under ethical guidelines.
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Lived experience of the urban settings under study and proficiency in relevant local languages.
Refer this link for more details: >>https://r4d.org/wp-content/uploads/Lead-Researcher-Urban-Development-and-Innovat_Andrea-Tiganescu.pdf
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a 2-page CV, a 2-page cover note detailing relevant experience and earliest availability, and a proposed daily fee rate.
Applications must be submitted via the online form on the: >> R4D Business Opportunities page by Tuesday, October 27, 2026.
