Transdisciplinary researcher and Bid Writer
Job Title: Transdisciplinary researcher and Bid Writer (70% Bid Writing / 30% Research)
Location: Australia or Asia or Europe
Employment Type: Full-time or Part-time
Application Deadline: 15 February 2025
About Us
The Institute for Study and Development Worldwide (IFSD) is an international development research/consulting firm registered in Australia. Our mission is to drive inclusive development and community resilience in the Indo-Pacific through co-creating knowledge, policy, and innovative practices. IFSD is recognised for its expertise in collaborative action research, targeted capacity building, knowledge management, evidence-based policy design, and a systems-based approach to tackling multiple sustainable development challenges. We have active partnerships with various international funders who support our work of facilitating collaborative interventions and policy learning with governments, community groups, and other key stakeholders, particularly at the critical intersection of climate resilience and inclusive development.
Position Overview
IFSD is seeking a highly skilled Researcher and Bid Writer to join our team in a unique dual-role position. This role combines bid writing (70%) with transdisciplinary research and related writing (30%), offering an exciting opportunity to for career growth that enhances research, writing, and strategic thinking skills, while contributing to addressing complex global problems.
This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment and is passionate about using their writing and research expertise to drive meaningful change in the environment and development across Asia, Pacific, and Africa.
Key Responsibilities
Bid Writing (70%)
- Research and identify relevant funding opportunities from government agencies, foundations, and international organizations.
- Craft new project ideas and tailored pitches for potential funding organisations
- Collaborate with proposal team to write, edit, and submit high-quality bids, proposals, and grant applications
- Facilitate communication and coordination among the proposal team members for seamless collaboration and timely submission
- Ensure that all submissions align with donor requirements and organizational goals.
- Maintain a database of past submissions, templates, and supporting documents.
Research & Writing (30%)
- Conduct research on global development trends, policy frameworks, and best practices within IFSD’s focus areas.
- Draft policy briefs, blogs, and research reports to support IFSD’s program advisory services.
- Analyze data and synthesize findings into strategic insights.
- Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to integrate research findings into project design and strategy.
Qualifications and Selection Criteria
- A degree in Social Sciences is preferred
- Two years of previous experience in proposal writing and research
- Strong background in research and policy writing, preferably in environmental issues or international development
- Ability to think strategically and translate complex ideas into clear, compelling narratives
- Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines
- Strong qualitative data analysis skills
- Basic quantitative data analysis skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume, a cover letter, and two writing samples (e.g., a research/policy document) together with expected monthly salary amount to admin@ifsd.com.au by 15 February 2025. Please include “Researcher and Bid Writer Application – [Your Name]” in the subject line.
IFSD is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, familial status and other legally protected characteristics. For Australia-based employment, you will need a valid work visa. We are unable to provide visa sponsorship. Overseas candidates can have the option to work as consultants, remotely from their home country or location.