UNICEF NATIONAL RESEARCHER 2026 office based with possible travel

Overview

UNICEF is recruiting a National Researcher and Anthropologist for a 12-month consultancy in Pakistan that supports its polio programme. The assignment looks at social characteristics, cultural practices, health behaviours and behavioural drivers among communities in polio high-risk areas. The findings are meant to strengthen community engagement and communication strategies that raise vaccine acceptance. The consultant reports to the M&E Specialist for Polio at UNICEF and works closely with the Social and Behaviour Change unit. The post is office based, with possible travel depending on research needs.

What you get

The consultant carries out desk research on cultural norms, customs and behavioural drivers, qualitative field research and community observations, and supports social studies started by the polio programme. They collect information from communities and stakeholders, engage government counterparts and civil society partners, analyse factors affecting vaccine acceptance, assess the effectiveness of Social and Behaviour Change interventions, identify drivers of positive change and support improvements to campaign and communication strategies, with the aim of reducing the number of children missed by polio campaigns. No fixed monthly pay is set; applicants submit a financial proposal on the UNICEF template.

Requirements

Applicants need a Master's degree in social and behavioural science, anthropology, sociology, psychology, public health or another relevant technical field, with an advanced degree or PhD in anthropology an advantage. At least five years of professional experience in anthropology, social research or public health programming is required, along with strong qualitative research and analysis skills, field data collection and survey experience, familiarity with data analysis software, and knowledge of child safeguarding and research ethics. Quantitative analysis skills are desirable. Knowledge of English, Urdu and Pashto is required.

How to apply

Applications go through UNICEF's Talent Management System and need an updated profile and CV, a cover letter, a financial proposal, a detailed technical proposal and any relevant earlier study or article. UNICEF charges no fees at any stage of recruitment.

Key dates

Advertised on 17 August 2026, with a deadline of 30 August 2026, Pakistan Standard Time.