Research Analyst (Impact Assessment)

About WorldFish  

WorldFish is an international research organization working to transform aquatic food systems to reduce hunger, malnutrition, and poverty. It collaborates with international, regional, and national partners to co-develop and deliver scientific innovations, evidence for policy and knowledge to enable equitable and inclusive impact for millions who depend on fish and other aquatic foods for their livelihoods and nutrition. Our work in countries advances progress on multiple 2030 Sustainable Development Goals through science and innovation, with a vision of healthy people, healthy planet and shared prosperity.   

About the Position 

This role is responsible for working with WorldFish scientists and international partners to research support under the CGIAR Sustainable Animal & Aquatic Food (SAAF) and other projects. The successful candidate will support data management, analysis, and reporting for impact assessment studies under supervision, applying descriptive and inferential statistical methods to generate reliable evidence. The role includes contributing to the development of novel and large-scale data visualizations and the preparation of high-impact analytical reports that inform policy dialogue and decision-making. The candidate will also assist with the planning, development, and management of WorldFish projects across aquatic food systems, providing technical and coordination support to enhance project implementation and outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Support data management, validation, analysis, and reporting for impact assessment studies, using descriptive and inferential statistical methods, ensuring accuracy and data quality across qualitative and quantitative datasets.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the design, programming, and implementation of surveys and other data collection instruments, including Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) tools, and the management, validation, and organization of data outputs generated from these systems.
• Contribute to the development of analytical outputs, data visualizations, and large-scale visual products that support evidence-based decision-making and policy dialogue.
• Support the preparation of high-quality reports, presentations, peer review papers, and knowledge products, including inputs to impact assessment reports, project reports, workshops, conferences, and peer review journals.
• Conduct literature reviews and synthesize evidence to support impact assessment methodologies, analytical approaches, and the enhancement of MELIA-related tools, methods, and data frameworks.
• Coordinate and collaborate with MELIA team members, researchers, and project staff, contributing to both research and program management activities as needed.
• Assist with project planning, implementation support, and reporting activities across WorldFish initiatives within aquatic food systems, under the supervision of the lead Scientist.

Requirements

This job might be for you if you have the below skills and qualifications:  

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in an appropriate field of social science (economics, agricultural economics, environmental economics, agriculture/fisheries and aquaculture, statistics), or any related field.
• Intermediate proficiency in statistical and data analysis software such as STATA, R, Python, Matlab, GAMS, or database tools, as well as Microsoft Office applications.
• Quantitative and econometric analysis skills, including data mining, data cleaning, descriptive and inferential statistics, and handling large datasets.
• Experience in developing data visualizations, dashboards, and analytical outputs for evidence-based reporting and decision-making.
• Knowledge of mobile data collection tools and CAPI systems (e.g., Open Data Kit, KOBO Toolbox, or similar), including survey design, programming, and management of data outputs is desirable
• Ability to perform in-depth quantitative and qualitative analysis with attention to detail, accuracy, and reproducible results.
• Experience in conducting literature reviews of academic publications, research reports, and other sources to support analysis and project development.
• Basic programming skills are a plus (e.g., Excel macros, Visual Basic, C++, or similar).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English, able to convey technical findings clearly to multiple audiences.
• Familiarity with AI tools and large language models (LLMs) for data analysis, visualization, summarization, and research support is considered an added advantage.
• Proficiency in literature reviews from multiple journals.
• Good understanding of drafting peer review articles.
• Experience in sustainability impact assessments in aquatic food systems including areas such as food security, poverty, Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI), and climate change will be an asset.
• Ability to coordinate and collaborate effectively with project teams, researchers, and external partners in research and program management contexts.

Desirable Skills/Experience

• Able to multitask, work within deadlines and with minimum supervision.
• Strong organizational skills, hardworking with a good work ethic.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and to work in a team-oriented multi-cultural environment.

Benefits

This is a Nationally Recruited Staff (NRS) position and WorldFish offers a competitive remuneration package including comprehensive benefits (but not limited to) insurance coverage for staff and eligible dependents, employer provident fund contribution, paid leave, and others. The duration of the contract will initially be for a three-year period with possibility for extension, depending on funding and performance.

How to Apply

Your application must include:

• A copy of your curriculum vitae,
• A cover letter which addresses key requirements stated above; and
• Contact information of three professional referees who may be contacted if you are short-listed for the position.

To be considered, applications must be submitted by no later than 23:59 (MYT), 15 March 2026.

Location: The post holder will be based in Penang, Malaysia.

The screening will start immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Due to the high volume of applicants for WorldFish positions, we appreciate all interest, but only short-listed candidates will be contacted. 

Our Gender, Diversity and Inclusion Commitment 

Over 40% of WorldFish staff is women with some 30 nationalities represented and contributing to its dynamic multicultural work environment. WorldFish is committed to promoting a work environment where diversity and inclusion are valued and we seek to have gender balance in the organization. We aim to also seek balance across other diversity dimensions. 

People in WorldFish are treated equally irrespective of gender, ethnicity/race, national or social origin, disability, religion, political affiliation, age, family size, marital status or any other form of personal identity.

We are an equal opportunities employer and strongly encourage qualified women and men from developing nations to apply.