Emerging Researchers Program.

About the program:

This program is a unique opportunity for social science students and fresh graduates to participate in a comprehensive research mission to develop organizational and technological solutions for Lebanese municipalities.

Skilled researchers will collaborate on designing and implementing many features of this exciting new initiative, from high-level analytical work to on-the-ground application and engagement with municipal members and citizens.

Accepted applicants work for three months after the start date. Researchers work primarily on a task-based approach, with priority for delivery more than “clocking-in hours”. However, they should expect to work for up to 3 days per week, assuming 6-hour shifts. They work and report to the Chief Operations Officer and each other collaboratively. They are guided by academic advisors in world-leading institutions and work from our offices in Tripoli. Accepted applicants are provided with basic compensation for food and transportation, and those who live outside of Tripoli are provided complimentary accommodation. All emerging researchers are expected to work with a high level of rigor and professionalism in order to close on all work streams and facilitate communication, creativity, and delivery on requests. They will be guided and further trained on all key functions outlined below.

Key functions

• Systematic literature review
  o Compilation and analysis of key literature in relevant fields
• Data collection
  o Survey administrationo Facilitation and note taking in focus groups and interviewso Collection of archival documentation relevant for analysis
• Data managemento Secure and clear storage and organisation of all datao Recording and transcription of all interviews and focus groups
• Data analysiso Quantitative analysis of survey input (skill in R software highly encouraged)o Qualitative thematic analysis of transcripts (skill in using NVivo is a plus)
• Report writeup

o Compilation of research findings into a thorough, communicable and practical report

• Public communication of findings
o Creation of simple public communication material for the findings (visual,

written, video, etc.)

Eligibility requirements:

• Current bachelor’s or master’s degree students or graduates with academic excellence (of honors / distinction and above only) in a rigorous, analytical social sciences discipline (e.g., political sciences, public policy, law, international affairs, Middle East studies, sociology, psychology or other related / applicable majors) with a demonstrated interest in impact and research

Application requirements:

Please note that applicants who do not submit the below requirements will not be considered in the recruiting process.

• CV with clear mention of GPA
• Cover letter customized to the role and highlighting previous research experienceTo applyEmail us at careers@smartgov.tech with your application About SmartGov:

  Because governments need to better connect with their citizens, improve access to public services, and respond to social development, SmartGov was created to upgrade systems of governance to meet the needs and ambitions of citizens today. Enabling digital transformation of governance in Lebanon is our way of doing our part in serving our country during this increasingly difficult time.

  SmartGov is an impact-oriented organization that integrates action research, strategy and technology to allow state institutions to be smart, inclusive and effective.