Research Associate, Institute for Educational Development

Aga Khan University’s Institute for Educational Development is seeking a Research Associate to support a grant-funded project focused on developing a Teacher Career Pathway and Promotion Framework in Balochistan. This framework aims to establish a transparent, merit-based system that links teachers’ career progression with classroom performance, offering dual pathways for advancement as educators or leaders. The role involves engaging with local education stakeholders, conducting field research, and contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the socio-cultural and educational landscape in the region. The position is based in Karachi, Pakistan, and requires close collaboration with both field teams and the central research unit.

Key Responsibilities

- Execute and support primary field data collection activities, including pre-testing research tools in assigned areas.
- Conduct and facilitate semi-structured focus group discussions with school teachers, headmasters, education managers, and other key stakeholders to identify challenges in teacher promotion and performance evaluation.
- Lead community outreach and mobilisation efforts, gathering feedback from parents, local teachers, and school communities.
- Assist the Karachi-based AKU-IED team in interpreting the local social and educational context of Balochistan.
- Ensure inclusive representation and feedback from marginalized groups and female teachers across various districts.
- Document field processes, community feedback sessions, and stakeholder meetings to provide qualitative data for the core research team.

Required Qualifications

- A Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences or Natural Sciences from a reputable national or international university.
- At least two years of relevant experience in the education sector or a related field.
- A deep understanding of the local socio-cultural and educational context.
- Proven ability to conduct semi-structured focus group discussions and navigate school environments effectively.
- Strong interpersonal skills for community outreach and engagement with diverse school communities.
- Effective communication skills to interact with local education stakeholders and marginalized community members.

Comprehensive employment reference checks will be conducted to ensure suitability for the role.

Aga Khan University, established in 1983 as Pakistan’s first private international university, is committed to delivering education, research, and healthcare of international standards relevant to Pakistan and the region. The University operates teaching sites in Pakistan, East Africa, the United Kingdom, and Afghanistan, and is a key part of the Aga Khan Development Network. AKU is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. The institution upholds rigorous standards for safeguarding and promoting respectful relationships among its faculty, staff, trainees, volunteers, beneficiaries, and wider communities, including children and vulnerable adults. All employees and partners are expected to share this commitment.

This position offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to educational development in Balochistan by supporting a project that seeks to improve teacher motivation and establish competency-based career pathways. The role is ideal for candidates passionate about education reform, community engagement, and research in challenging socio-cultural settings.