Research Assistant

Organization: ABAAD – Resource Center for Gender Equality

Location: Lebanon – 4 governorates

Duration: 6 months

Reporting to: Research Lead/ Research Coordinator

Background

ABAAD is a non-profit, non-politically affiliated, non-religious civil association that aims to achieve gender equality as an essential condition to sustainable social and economic development in the MENA region. ABAAD seeks to promote women’s equality and participation through policy development, legal reform, gender mainstreaming, engaging men, eliminating discrimination, and advancing and empowering women to participate effectively and fully in their communities. ABAAD also seeks to support and collaborate with civil society organizations that are involved in gender equality programs and advocacy campaigns.

In contexts of armed conflict, crises, and displacement, men face distinct challenges that influence their roles, identities, and coping strategies. Gaining a deep understanding of these experiences is essential for developing gender-transformative interventions and effective advocacy strategies. The Research Assistant will support ABAAD in conducting both qualitative and quantitative research on men’s experiences, roles, and coping mechanisms during and after conflict, providing evidence to inform program design and policy recommendations.

Key Responsibilities

The Research Assistant will:

1. Assist in research design and preparation of tools (surveys, interview guides, focus group guides).

2. Conduct fieldwork, including interviews and focus groups with men and relevant stakeholders.

3. Support data collection, entry, and management, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality.

4. Assist in literature review and desk research on masculinities, GBV, and conflict-related studies.

5. Contribute to prepare summaries, reports, and visual presentations.

6. Ensure ethical standards are maintained, including informed consent, confidentiality, and survivor-centered approaches.

7. Support coordination with partners and stakeholders as required.

Deliverables

• Research tools (questionnaires, guides, translation) finalized and ready for fieldwork.
• Collected and organized qualitative and quantitative data.
• Draft and final research report with findings, analysis from technical person, and recommendations.
• Brief summary notes and presentations for internal use

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in social sciences, psychology, gender studies, sociology, or related fields.
• Experience in research on men, masculinities, GBV, or conflict contexts
• Strong skills in data collection and reporting
• Ability to work with diverse populations, including men affected by conflict.
• Knowledge of ethical research practices, especially in sensitive contexts.
• Fluency in Arabic and English (spoken and written).

Competencies

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Attention to detail and organizational abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Sensitivity to gender, cultural, and conflict-related issues.

Important Note on Protection and Ethics

ABAAD has zero tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse of beneficiaries. Protection from sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA) is everyone’s responsibility. All staff must adhere to the code of conduct, both during and outside work hours, and complete mandatory related training. Familiarization with, and adherence to, the code of conduct is a mandatory requirement.