NetHope Meaningful Connectivity Research Consultant 2026: Remote Humanitarian Consultancy – Apply by 9 September

Overview

NetHope is seeking a Meaningful Connectivity Research Consultant to lead a research study on how connectivity shapes emergency response before, during and after crises, across the humanitarian-development continuum. The consultancy is fully remote, runs from September 2026 to January 2027 and involves an estimated 40 hours of work per month. The study aims to understand how frontline responders access communication technology, where persistent gaps remain, and what funding and support models would work better for future emergency programming.

What the role involves

Working with the NetHope research committee, the consultant covers the project from design to final reporting. Tasks include building a research work plan and protocols, running a structured literature review on humanitarian connectivity technologies, digital infrastructure in crises, anticipatory action, funding and procurement models and relevant policy, and interviewing stakeholders such as international and local NGOs, community organisations, UN agencies, philanthropic organisations, private-sector providers and local first responders. The consultant also designs a quantitative survey for the NetHope Member network and Connected organisations, facilitates validation workshops, prepares presentations for donor-facing events and builds four embedded case studies of NetHope emergency response initiatives.

Requirements

Applicants should have experience with applied or policy-oriented humanitarian or development research, strong qualitative skills including interviews, facilitation and thematic analysis, and experience designing surveys and analysing quantitative data. Familiarity with humanitarian connectivity or telecommunications infrastructure, knowledge of satellite communications and private-sector providers, experience engaging NGOs, donors, governments and UN coordination mechanisms, and strong report writing are expected. Knowledge of anticipatory action, humanitarian funding architecture and the NetHope Member network is preferred.

How to apply

A proposal should include a summary of relevant experience, a proposed methodology and work plan, hourly and total rates in USD, two to three professional references and an updated CV or profile.

Key dates

The deadline is 9 September 2026 at midnight ET. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so a consultant may be appointed before then.