For professionals passionate about African governance, public policy, development, democracy, and data-driven research, the Mo Ibrahim Foundation is offering an exciting opportunity to join its research team as a Researcher based in London.
This position provides a unique chance to contribute to some of the most influential governance and development initiatives focused on Africa, including the internationally recognized Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG) and the Ibrahim Forum Report.
The role is ideal for talented researchers who are eager to combine rigorous data analysis, policy research, report writing, and stakeholder engagement while working within a globally respected organization committed to improving governance and leadership across Africa.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, making early submission highly advisable.
About the Mo Ibrahim Foundation
The Mo Ibrahim Foundation (MIF) is one of the world’s leading organizations focused on improving governance and leadership across Africa.
The Foundation is widely recognized for producing high-quality research, data, and analysis that inform policy discussions and support evidence-based decision-making throughout the continent.
Through its flagship initiatives, the Foundation promotes:
- Good governance
- Accountability
- Leadership excellence
- Sustainable development
- Democratic participation
- Economic transformation
- Rule of law
- Public sector effectiveness
Its work influences policymakers, governments, researchers, development organizations, academics, and civil society leaders across Africa and beyond.
About the Researcher Position
The Researcher will join the Foundation’s dedicated research team and support the organization’s core research and policy activities.
This role offers significant exposure to major governance and development issues affecting Africa today, while providing opportunities to work with large datasets, contribute to high-profile publications, and participate in international policy discussions.
The successful candidate will support two of the Foundation’s most important initiatives:
The Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG)
The IIAG is one of the most comprehensive governance measurement tools for Africa.
The index evaluates governance performance across African countries by assessing numerous indicators related to:
- Security
- Rule of law
- Participation
- Rights
- Economic opportunity
- Human development
- Public administration
- Transparency and accountability
The Researcher will play a key role in supporting the ongoing development and analysis of this influential governance index.
The Ibrahim Forum Report
The Ibrahim Forum Report is a flagship publication that examines major issues shaping Africa’s future.
Topics frequently explored include:
- Climate change
- Economic development
- Development finance
- Governance reform
- Security and conflict
- Migration
- Democracy
- Youth development
- Institutional strengthening
The Researcher will contribute to the production and dissemination of these important reports.
Key Responsibilities
The Researcher position offers a broad and intellectually stimulating portfolio of responsibilities.
1. Conducting Research and Data Analysis
A major component of the role involves conducting desk-based research and producing evidence-based analysis.
Responsibilities include:
- Collecting data from multiple sources
- Analyzing quantitative and qualitative information
- Producing visualizations and analytical outputs
- Synthesizing findings from diverse datasets
The successful candidate will support the Foundation’s commitment to rigorous and credible research.
2. Writing Literature Reviews and Research Papers
The Researcher will draft a variety of research products covering critical issues affecting Africa.
Potential research topics include:
- Climate policy
- Development finance
- Security and stability
- Democratic governance
- Migration trends
- Rule of law
- Public sector performance
- Economic development
The role requires the ability to transform complex information into clear, accessible, and policy-relevant insights.
3. Supporting Report Production
The successful candidate will assist with the preparation of:
- Research reports
- Policy briefs
- Presentations
- Background papers
- Governance assessments
These outputs contribute directly to the Foundation’s influence within policy and development circles.
4. Contributing to the Ibrahim Index of African Governance
The Researcher will help:
- Calculate governance indicators
- Analyze governance trends
- Improve methodologies
- Develop thematic assessments
- Identify emerging governance issues
This work helps maintain the IIAG’s reputation as a leading governance measurement framework.
5. Identifying New Data Sources
The Foundation continuously seeks innovative ways to strengthen its evidence base.
The Researcher will:
- Monitor emerging datasets
- Evaluate governance indicators
- Identify new sources of information
- Support data quality improvements
This work ensures that Foundation publications remain relevant and authoritative.
6. Monitoring Policy and Governance Developments
The role requires staying informed about developments affecting Africa.
Researchers will regularly monitor:
- News and media coverage
- Academic publications
- Government reports
- International development updates
- Governance-related events
This helps inform ongoing research and advocacy efforts.
7. Supporting Advocacy and Dissemination
Research findings are most impactful when they reach decision-makers.
The Researcher will contribute to:
- Dissemination strategies
- Stakeholder engagement
- Knowledge sharing initiatives
- Policy discussions
- Public events
This provides exposure to both research and advocacy dimensions of the Foundation’s work.
8. Representing the Foundation
The successful candidate may represent the Foundation at:
- Conferences
- Research forums
- Policy events
- Governance discussions
- Development meetings
This offers valuable opportunities to build professional networks and engage with leaders across sectors.
9. Supporting Major Foundation Events
The role includes logistical and research support for key Foundation initiatives, including the prestigious:
Ibrahim Governance Weekend
This biennial event brings together:
- Heads of state
- Policymakers
- Development leaders
- Academics
- Civil society representatives
- Business leaders
Participation in such events provides exceptional professional exposure.
Qualifications Required
Applicants must possess:
Educational Requirements
- A postgraduate degree in a relevant field
Relevant disciplines may include:
- Public Policy
- Political Science
- International Development
- Economics
- Governance Studies
- International Relations
- African Studies
- Sociology
- Public Administration
Professional Experience
Candidates should have:
- 2–4 years of research or analytical experience
- Internship experience may count toward this requirement
Experience should demonstrate:
- Research capability
- Analytical thinking
- Policy understanding
- Report writing skills
Essential Skills and Competencies
Successful applicants should possess:
Communication Skills
- Excellent written English
- Strong verbal communication abilities
- Presentation skills
- Research writing expertise
Technical Skills
- Advanced Excel proficiency
- Microsoft Office expertise
- Experience handling large datasets
- Data visualization capabilities
Analytical Skills
- Strong numerical literacy
- Ability to interpret complex data
- Evidence-based decision-making capabilities
Research Software Skills
Knowledge of the following is considered a strong advantage:
- Python
- R
- Tableau
- Statistical analysis tools
These skills are increasingly valuable for governance and policy research.
Additional Language Skills
Fluency in the following languages is highly desirable:
- French
- Arabic
- Portuguese
These languages support engagement across different regions of Africa.
Professional Attributes
The Foundation seeks candidates who are:
- Detail-oriented
- Organized
- Adaptable
- Collaborative
- Curious and eager to learn
- Diplomatic in multicultural environments
- Able to work under deadlines
Location and Working Arrangements
The position is based in:
Marylebone, London, United Kingdom
Additional considerations include:
- Full-time employment
- Flexible working hours may be required
- International travel may be required
- Salary is competitive and based on experience
Application Deadline
Deadline: Rolling Applications
There is no fixed closing date.
Because applications are reviewed continuously, interested candidates should apply as early as possible.
How to Apply
Applicants should submit the following documents:
Required Documents
- A one-page cover letter explaining:
- Interest in the role
- Relevant qualifications
- Professional experience
- An updated CV detailing:
- Academic background
- Employment history
- Relevant skills and achievements
- Salary expectations
- Current notice period
Submission Method
Applications should be sent via email to:
research@moibrahimfoundation.org
Email Subject Line
Use: [Your Name] – Researcher Application
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Why You Should Apply
The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Researcher position offers a rare opportunity to contribute to some of the most influential governance and policy research initiatives focused on Africa.
Professionals in this role will gain:
- Experience working on globally respected governance datasets
- Exposure to high-level policy discussions
- Opportunities to contribute to influential reports
- Access to leading experts in governance and development
- Experience engaging with policymakers and international stakeholders
- Career growth within one of Africa’s most respected policy institutions
For researchers committed to advancing evidence-based governance and sustainable development across Africa, this role offers both meaningful impact and exceptional professional development.
For more information, read the official call for applications
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