Research Manager – Lead Multi‑Project Research Programs

About the role

The Research Manager (RM) leads the delivery of a portfolio of research projects, ensuring scientific rigor, timely execution, and compliance with donor and regulatory requirements. Reporting to senior leadership, the RM works closely with Principal Investigators, implementing partners, and internal support functions to drive high‑quality research outcomes across Uganda.

Key responsibilities

• Provide technical, operational, financial and people‑management oversight across the full research lifecycle, from planning to close‑out.
• Ensure projects meet scientific standards, stay on schedule, remain within budget, and comply with IPA, donor, ethical and Ugandan regulatory guidelines.
• Develop and mentor research staff, manage project and stakeholder risks, and contribute to new research and funding opportunities.
• Support continuous learning and improvement within the country programme.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in economics, statistics, public health, epidemiology, development studies, public policy or related social sciences.
• 4‑5 years of professional experience managing multiple research projects, preferably with randomized controlled trials.
• Demonstrated ability to supervise field research, including survey design, data collection, monitoring and data‑quality assurance.
• Full professional fluency in written and spoken English and willingness to travel up to 30%.

Required skills

• Proficiency with statistical software such as Stata, R or Python.
• Experience using electronic data‑collection platforms (SurveyCTO, KoboToolbox, ODK or similar).
• Strong quantitative research methods knowledge.