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IOM Research Consultant – Remote job

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is recruiting an experienced IOM Research Consultant to conduct an in-depth study on maritime migration and security dynamics in the Red Sea region. This home-based consultancy is linked to the Arab Centre for Technical Cooperation in Migration and Border Management in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a joint initiative between IOM and Naif Arab University for Security Sciences (NAUSS). The assignment will run for an initial period of six months, with the possibility of extension up to eleven months depending on performance and funding availability.

The selected IOM Research Consultant will lead the design and delivery of a comprehensive research study examining the drivers of maritime migration, smuggling and trafficking networks, regional security challenges, and the socio-economic impacts of migration on coastal communities and transit countries. This role provides a unique opportunity to contribute directly to regional policy development and evidence-based migration management strategies.

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Project Background

The Arab Centre for Technical Cooperation in Migration and Border Management was established to enhance technical cooperation and regional capacity in immigration and border governance across the Arab region. One of the Centre’s core activities is conducting joint research studies on priority migration and security topics relevant to Member States.

The IOM Research Consultant will focus on the Red Sea corridor, a critical route connecting the Horn of Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and major global trade lanes. The research will explore how conflict, economic inequality, and geopolitical developments influence maritime mobility patterns and security risks. The findings will support policymakers, security institutions, and humanitarian actors in designing sustainable and coordinated responses.

Purpose of the Assignment

The purpose of this consultancy is to deliver a high-quality research study that provides actionable insights into the interlinked dynamics of migration and maritime security in the Red Sea region. The IOM Research Consultant will assess migration drivers, analyze operational challenges faced by coastal states, and evaluate existing border management and humanitarian response frameworks.

The study will generate evidence-based recommendations to strengthen regional cooperation, improve policy coherence, and promote safe and orderly migration.

Key Objectives

The IOM Research Consultant will be responsible for achieving the following objectives:

• Identify and analyze the main drivers and trends of maritime migration flows in the Red Sea region.
• Map and assess the structure and operations of smuggling and trafficking networks influencing irregular migration.
• Examine how geopolitical tensions, economic pressures, and conflict-driven displacement affect migration patterns and maritime security.
• Analyze the socio-economic consequences of migration and trade on coastal communities, port cities, and transit countries.
• Review the effectiveness of current border management systems and humanitarian policies in the region.
• Produce practical, evidence-based recommendations for policymakers and practitioners.

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Scope of Work and Responsibilities

Under the supervision of IOM and in collaboration with NAUSS experts, the IOM Research Consultant will be responsible for:

• Developing a clear research workplan and methodology aligned with IOM and NAUSS standards.
• Conducting desk-based research and comparative policy analysis using reliable data sources.
• Applying qualitative and quantitative research methods appropriate to migration and security studies.
• Drafting and refining research outputs in coordination with assigned technical counterparts.
• Ensuring accuracy, coherence, and academic rigor in all written materials.
• Integrating feedback from IOM and NAUSS reviewers into revised drafts.
• Producing a final report suitable for translation and publication.

Deliverables and Timeline

The IOM Research Consultant will be expected to deliver the following outputs:

First Deliverable:
Submission of a preparatory package including a detailed workplan, research methodology, security study template, and study outline for approval.

Second Deliverable:
Submission of the first full draft of the research report with documented sources and references.

Third Deliverable:
Submission of the final research report, incorporating contributions from NAUSS experts, along with one PowerPoint presentation summarizing key findings and recommendations.

All deliverables must be submitted electronically within agreed deadlines and must meet professional academic and policy standards.

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Required Qualifications

Applicants for the IOM Research Consultant role must meet the following criteria:

• Master’s degree in migration studies, international relations, political science, law, sociology, or a related field,
  OR a Bachelor’s degree with at least six years of relevant research experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in migration studies, preferably in the Middle East and North Africa region.
• Proven experience in conducting research related to migration, maritime security, or regional geopolitics.
• Previous involvement in policy-oriented or comparative research projects involving government or security institutions.
• Strong analytical and drafting skills with the ability to translate complex findings into practical recommendations.

Language Requirements

• Excellent written and spoken English is required.
• Knowledge of Arabic is a strong advantage.

Work Arrangement

This position is home-based. The IOM Research Consultant will work remotely and coordinate with IOM and NAUSS through virtual meetings and electronic communication. No travel is required for this assignment. The consultant must demonstrate strong time management, accountability, and the ability to work independently while maintaining close collaboration with the research team.

Core Competencies

The successful IOM Research Consultant will be expected to demonstrate:

• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills.
• Consistent delivery of high-quality results within agreed timelines.
• Ability to manage and share knowledge effectively.
• Clear and professional communication of complex ideas.
• High ethical standards, integrity, and professionalism.
• Respect for diversity and commitment to inclusion.
• Empathy and sensitivity when addressing migration and humanitarian issues.

Why This Opportunity Matters

The work of the IOM Research Consultant will directly support regional efforts to manage migration in a safer, more structured, and more humane way. The research findings will contribute to improved border governance, stronger humanitarian responses, and enhanced cooperation among states in one of the world’s most strategically important maritime corridors.

This consultancy offers an opportunity to influence real-world policy decisions while working in an international and intellectually rigorous environment. It is particularly suited to researchers seeking to apply academic expertise to operational and policy challenges affecting migration and security.

For professionals with a strong research background and a commitment to evidence-based solutions, the IOM Research Consultant role provides a platform to make a meaningful contribution to regional stability and sustainable migration management.

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