Job ID: 312561

Program Specialist, Research and Thought Leadership

SEARCA

Location: Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines

Apply by: 20 Aug 2026

Relevant Sectors

Agriculture, Livelihoods, Microfinance, Rural

Fundraising, Business Development, Grants Writer

Monitoring, Evaluation, Policy, Research, Analysis

SEARCA's Research and Thought Leadership Department (RTLD) seeks a Program Specialist (regular position, based at the SEARCA UPLB Campus, College, Los Baños, Laguna). The role spearheads the full lifecycle of research for development programs and projects -- from conceptualization to implementation, monitoring, and closure; assists in the provision of evidence-based policy and program advisory services to key stakeholders; and ensures research findings are effectively translated and widely disseminated, contributing to sustainable development outcomes.

Responsibilities: contribute to strategic development of RTLD's program through situational and data analyses and needs assessments on agriculture and rural development (ARD); develop concept notes and proposals for research, fora, and conferences for core and/or donor funding; cultivate strategic relationships with partners and donor agencies to secure external funding; manage, implement, and monitor assigned programs to ensure compliance with SEARCA and donor requirements and lead preparation of project reports; assist in developing SEARCA's agricultural statistics database and lead data analyses and model building for policy insights and economic projections; design and organize knowledge-sharing events (fora, roundtables, conferences); review/edit reports and develop high-quality knowledge products such as policy briefs; coordinate RTLD support programs including the SEARCA Travel Grants Program and Internship Program.

Qualifications: Master's Degree in Economics, Agricultural Economics, Development Economics, Statistics, Public Policy, or related fields; five (5) years of relevant experience in project development and management, data analysis and statistical/econometric model building, and knowledge of Southeast Asian agricultural and rural development issues. Skills required include proposal development, research and model building, communication and collaboration, project management, and computer proficiency.

Closing date: 20 August 2026

HOW TO APPLY:

Apply online via the SEARCA application form. You may need to register first before you can submit an application. Applications will be received not later than 20 August 2026 or until a suitable candidate is accepted/hired.

https://hris.searcaapps.org/v1/vacancy-management/135/application-form