Title: Research Assistant

Reports To: Research Manager 

Duty station: Dhaka, Bangladesh

Duration: Till May 2026 (this might extend based on further need)

Start Date: August 2025

Context

BBC Media Action is the BBC’s international charity. We leverage media and communication to foster stronger democracies, a safer, more livable planet, and inclusive societies. We integrate a unique mix of journalistic, creative, research, and international development expertise, deep local knowledge of our audiences in the regions we operate, robust networks of local partners, and our invaluable connection to the BBC and its core values.

We serve the most vulnerable people facing information disorder (including mis- and disinformation, as well as information poverty), division, and distrust. Our focus is on those underserved by public interest media and who are at the forefront of global challenges, risks, and crises. We have a particular affinity for, and a proven track record of working with, young people as agents of change; they will remain a central focus. BBC Media Action collaborates with partners worldwide to provide impartial, impactful, and trustworthy media to those in need so they can make informed choices to transform their lives.

Job purpose:

To support its research efforts, BBC Media Action Bangladesh is looking for a Research Assistant for its Bangladesh country office. The ideal candidate will have a keen interest in qualitative research, along with strong analytical abilities. They should be proficient in qualitative data collection methods, capable of managing fieldwork in challenging situations, and committed to ensuring data quality through triangulation. This role requires highly motivated research professionals who are ready to deploy to the field on short notice.

Main Duties & responsibilities:

  • Search for and review literature, then prepare a brief report or PowerPoint presentation based on the requirements.
  • Be involved in formulating research designs and preparing research briefs (where appropriate). Assist in developing research instruments.
  • Select study participants and stakeholders based on the selection criteria and maintain communication with them as needed.
  • Facilitate focus groups and conduct in-depth interviews, Participatory Rural Appraisals (PRAs), and ethnographies with the Rohingya and host communities, ensuring the reliability and validity of the data collected. Take the field notes for formal and informal interviews/group discussions.
  • Assist in managing the daily field operations to ensure effective field execution and provide essential guidance and feedback to the data collectors to ensure data quality
  • Arrange all the necessary field logistics (venue, accommodation). Maintain communication with local fixers and focal points of partner organisations to ensure all logistics are properly organised.
  • Manage the data gathered from the field and prepare transcripts/ frameworks/ summaries of interviews and group discussions.
  • Collaborate closely with the line /task manager in analysing data and assisting in drafting reports/ preparing PowerPoint presentations.
  • Assist with any research activities conducted in other parts of the country as needed.

Skills, knowledge, and experience requirements:

Criteria
Essential (E)/ Desirable (D)
A minimum bachelor’s degree from the Social Science disciplines and any other relevant discipline
E
Experience in conducting fieldwork and facilitating interviews/discussions
E
Experience in research on climate related issues
D
Experience in taking notes, writing summaries/ transcripts
E
Strong IT skills, including Word and Excel
E
Strong written and spoken ability in Bangla and English
E
Good time management skills, with a track record of delivering deliverables to deadline
E

The role may involve working with groups of vulnerable children and adults. For the successful candidate, mandatory training will be provided on BBC Media Action’s safeguarding policy and staff code of conduct. A police background check may form part of the recruitment process. BBC Media Action operates a zero-tolerance policy concerning all forms of abuse and exploitation of vulnerable people.

How to Apply:

If you are interested,

  • You must complete the latest job application form for BBC Media Action available at the link on www.bdjobs.com.
  • Mark your filled-in application form with your name and position
  • Mention the name of the position properly in the email subject line
  • Email your application form to applications@bd.bbcmediaaction.org.
  • Do NOT send any cover letter/CV/certificates/photograph except your completed application form.
  • If you are applying for more than one position, you must apply separately in line with the job description.

The deadline for submitting applications is 12 July 2025

The BBC is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to being inclusive and accessible to disabled people.