Freelance Research Consultant

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This is an independent consulting role with Our Client, A leading Research-Led University is looking for Consultant to build a Research & Landscape Report whose primary mandate will be to work on higher education research philanthropy in India.
Key Responsibilities
Research philanthropy landmark report: diagnose the scale of India's research funding gap, identify and evaluate funding models (domestic and global), and define what funders should and could support - producing a report intended for active use by HNIs and other funders as a reference for how to engage with this space.
Work with Leadership to scope priority areas more broadly, such as research universities, civic spaces, libraries, and other public-purpose institutions.
Engage in dipstick secondary research to diagnose binding constraints in issue areas and develop initial hypotheses around opportunities for impact (e.g., what constraints, if solved, unlock capital in an area; what arguments aid in catalysing philanthropy).
Oversee the creation of knowledge material across priority areas by identifying potential partners, developing terms of reference, and managing projects to completion.
Provide continued program support to organisations, programs, or public goods that may stem from this knowledge output.
Maintain a high bar on rigour, discipline, and credibility across all outputs.
Skills Required
Undergraduate or masters degrees from top tier institutions. While there is no preference for a particular major or specialisation, we expect to see a high degree of intellectual curiosity and sophistication.
2 to 6 years of work experience in a consulting or challenging/high growth environment.
Exceptional analytical, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Solid planning and organisational skills with high attention to detail, accuracy, protocol and deadline.
Excellent writing ability that is clear, concise and analytic in style.
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder-facing skills including solid presentation and facilitation skills.
High level of flexibility and responsiveness with the ability to shift priorities quickly and as organisational demands require.
Desired Qualities
High level of discretion in maintaining confidentiality of sensitive materials and issues.
Ability to take initiative and develop solutions quickly and effectively.
Ability to understand and consider organisational culture and change.
Ability to function and interact in a professional level capacity to sustain the mission, culture and best interests of the respective organisations.
Ability to adapt and exhibit confidence in a highly evolving, agile, and fast paced work environment.
Ability to do research and distil important concepts in a structured, concise, yet comprehensive manner.
Broad and strategic mindset, creative aptitude and effective use of independent judgement.
Operating style suited to working in a small-organisation setting, where teamwork and resourcefulness are highly valued.

Work arrangement
No