Climate Change Adaptation Consultant

Background:
Welcome to Scofield Associates, your premier research partner in the Horn of Africa. With a steadfast commitment to excellence, we have established ourselves as a leading research firm operating across nine countries in this dynamic and diverse region. Our extensive presence allows us to provide unparalleled insights and comprehensive analysis, tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. Our expertise spans various sectors, including governance, development, security, and public policy. We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, evidence-based research that informs decision-making and fosters positive change.

Operating in nine countries across the Horn of Africa, Scofield Associates is strategically positioned to capture the region’s complex realities. Our extensive network and local knowledge enable us to conduct thorough research and provide valuable insights that reflect the nuanced contexts of each country. This broad reach ensures that we remain at the forefront of developments in the region, offering our clients the most relevant and up-to-date information.

At Scofield Associates, we offer a wide range of research services designed to meet the diverse needs of our clients. These include Qualitative and Quantitative Research, Policy Analysis and Development, Program Management, Monitoring and Evaluation, Organization Capacity Assessment, and Big Data Analytics. We employ robust methodologies to gather and analyze data, assist policymakers with evidence-based recommendations, assess the impact and effectiveness of development initiatives, provide training and support to local institutions, and harness the power of big data for comprehensive insights.

Scofield Associates is seeking highly qualified consultants for an anticipated research task, to support climate change adaptation work in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This work will be crucial for building resilience and reducing the vulnerability of communities to the impacts of climate change.

Scope of Work:
The consultant will be responsible for the following tasks:

1. Rapid Evidence Assessment: Conduct a rapid evidence assessment on climate change adaptation interventions in LMICs, focusing on the effectiveness and scalability of various approaches. 
2. Technical Expertise: Provide technical expertise on climate change adaptation, particularly in the areas of:
   ◦ Ecosystems/biodiversity/nature-based solutions
   ◦ Infrastructure, including human settlements/urban housing
   ◦ Health
   ◦ Coastal resilience 
3. Research and Evaluation: Design and implement research studies to evaluate the impact of adaptation interventions in LMICs. Use a range of empirical research methods to assess the effectiveness of different approaches. 
4. Policy Engagement: Engage with policymakers and other stakeholders to share research findings and recommendations. Develop clear, practical recommendations for policy and practice based on the evidence. 
5. Team/Co-creation: Contribute effectively to multi-disciplinary research teams, ensuring high-quality research outputs and effective collaboration.

Qualifications and Experience:
The ideal candidate will have the following qualifications and experience:

• Advanced Degree: A master’s degree or Ph.D. in a relevant field, such as climate change, environmental science, or development studies. 
• Experience: At least five years of experience working on climate change adaptation interventions in LMICs. Demonstrated experience in conducting rapid evidence assessments and other forms of research synthesis. 
• Research Expertise: Strong research skills, including experience with a range of empirical research methods and a deep understanding of adaptation interventions. 
• Policy Engagement: Experience engaging with policymakers and other stakeholders to communicate research findings and influence policy. 
• Teamwork: Ability to lead and collaborate effectively with multi-disciplinary research teams. 
• Publication Record: A strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals on the topic of climate change adaptation. 
• Association: Linkage and association to an institution of higher education is also an added advantage.
• Prior experience working with the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), USAID or other international development agencies, is an added advantage.

Deliverables:
The consultant will be expected to work within a team and deliver on the following:

• A comprehensive rapid evidence assessment report on climate change adaptation interventions in LMICs. 
• Technical reports and policy briefs on specific adaptation topics. 
• Research and study designs for evaluating adaptation interventions. 
• Presentations and workshops for policymakers and other stakeholders.

Submission:
Interested consultants should submit the following:

• A detailed CV highlighting relevant experience and qualifications. 
• A cover letter outlining the consultant’s approach to the scope of work. 
• A list of peer-reviewed publications on climate change adaptation. 
• Three references with contact information. 
• Daily rate in USD.
• Availability – should be available for an engagement between September 2024 and March 2025.

Send your application to: consultants@scofieldassociates.co.ke by the 30th of June 2024 COB.