The opportunity

ACLED is recruiting an Afghanistan Researcher to assist in the collection, review and management of political violence and protest data across Afghanistan. Researchers must be available for around 10 to 15 hours per week. This opportunity is fully remote and can be done from any location with reliable internet service. This is an entry-level independent consultant opportunity and may require regular submissions on mid-week and weekends.

Collection of data is conducted by reviewing news, international organization, NGO and security reports on a list of assigned countries, and recording the incidents of political violence into an Excel template. Researchers will focus on coding events to provide holistic coverage of current political violence, ranging from protests to battles.

Review and management of data involves ensuring the quality, consistency and reliability of the data produced. The role provides team members with experience conducting detail-oriented tasks, and producing and managing quantitative data.

Please note that this position involves working with conflict-related media and reading about violent events.

Specific deliverables and responsibility:

Candidates who are selected will undergo extensive ACLED training. The training consists of several exercises. Candidates' exercises will be scrutinized and only those who are performing at the required level will be retained as Researchers.

For those selected, the initial consultancy period will be from September 2025 to June 2026. After this, continuation may be possible, pending performance and availability of funding.

Remuneration:

Remuneration is 20 USD per hour.

Skills and competencies:

ACLED is seeking applicants who have the following skills and experience:

University degree in international relations, political science, conflict studies, peacebuilding, international development, or related field;

Familiarity with Excel (essential);

Fluency in English (essential);

Fluency in Dari (essential);

Fluency in at least one or more major regional languages, including Pashto and Farsi (preferred);

Experience conducting desk-based research;

Experience working to deadlines with limited supervision;

A high level of attention to detail and ability to receive and incorporate feedback;

Research focus or professional experience in conflict research or peace-building in Afghanistan (essential);

An in-depth understanding of conflict dynamics and relevant actors in
Afghanistan (essential), and in the larger South Asia region (preferred);

Experience in media monitoring or related areas is advantageous;

Access to a computer, a reliable internet connection, email, and the Microsoft Office Suite.

Please send your resume/CV