Senior Global Researcher

ABOUT OUTRIGHT ACTION INTERNATIONAL

Founded in 1990, Outright International strives to help lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ) people live safer, healthier, and more empowered lives worldwide. Working from its offices in 12 countries and global headquarters in New York City, Outright documents human rights violations, helps resource LGBTIQ movements and allies, and advocates for the rights of LGBTIQ people. 

Outright currently seeks applicants for the full-time position of Senior Global Researcher, reporting to the Senior Director of Law, Policy, and Research. This position can be based anywhere in the world with strong internet connectivity. 

Outright relies on research to document and expose human rights violations against LGBTIQ people, to build up a repository of data on LGBTIQ lives, needs and experiences, to inform policymakers, to identify best practices around inclusion, visibility and movement-building, and to support LGBTIQ movements in producing evidence that they can use to advocate for their rights. The Senior Global Researcher will conduct their own research on global LGBTIQ human rights issues and will also manage one to three Outright research staff and, at times, one or multiple research consultants. They will also collaborate closely with Outright thematic and regional programs, including Outright’s LBQ Connect Program, which seeks to produce knowledge and documentation related to lesbian, bisexual and queer women’s rights and lives.

Research will look at both global trends and specific country or regional issues and areas of concern. It will include desk-based research as well as some international travel to conduct interviews and other forms of data gathering.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Identify gaps in knowledge and data collection with regard to LGBTIQ people’s human rights and inclusion in development, security, and humanitarian frameworks around the world.
• Design and develop research complex projects utilizing qualitative and quantitative methods.
• Conduct desk-based research as well as research trips to conduct interviews and gather data; analyze findings; and write, edit and review reports, policy papers, and other outputs based on research findings.
• Collaborate with the multimedia team to disseminate research findings.
• Develop advocacy plans, in collaboration with Outright’s regional and thematic teams, to ensure that research findings bolster advocacy by Outright and its partners.
• Manage other researchers or small research teams, including Outright staff and consultants, supporting them remotely in developing, conducting and publishing research on LGBTIQ human rights issues.
• Maintain familiarity with a range of current policy issues, debates, and proposals in the areas of LGBTIQ human rights, gender equality, peace and security, sustainable development, and other issues that relate to human rights.
• Collaborate on the development of research conducted by other Outright programs, and review reports.
• Other responsibilities, as needed

QUALIFICATIONS

• Substantial knowledge of and interest in current international LGBTIQ human rights issues.
• Qualitative research skills and substantial knowledge of research methodologies, including survey research and participatory research.
• Exceptional research, writing and editing skills.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision under tight deadlines.
• A master's degree in a relevant field is preferred, though we will consider candidates who have a bachelor's degree with extraordinary academic or professional credentials.
• 6-9 years of related work experience is required, along with demonstrated knowledge of various research methods and statistical techniques. Relevant coursework may count toward experience.