Contract: Pacific Researcher

Job title: Pacific Research Co-Lead: Labour Mobility & Household Economics (Consultant, Part-time)

Workplace type: Remote · Job type: Contract / part-time

About the role

Algorithm Research is a Dubai-based economics research and consulting firm. We work with governments, development partners and financial institutions on economic impact analysis, surveys and feasibility studies.

We are looking for a Pacific Research Co-Lead to work alongside our senior economists. Ideal candidate will make sure the research is grounded in the region, culturally appropriate, and useful to the communities and government it serves.

This is a paid engagement of about 15–20 days between November 2026 and February 2027, delivered mostly remotely, with some coordination of fieldwork in Australia.

Success in this role means research tools that communities understand and trust, fieldwork that reaches a diverse range of participants (including women, young people and outer-island families), and findings the government can act on.

Responsibilities

• Co-design survey questionnaires, interview guides and consent materials so they are culturally appropriate and clearly understood
• Advise on community engagement protocols, including introductions through traditional and church structures
• Review translations and interpret findings in their cultural and economic context
• Co-author the research report and policy briefs, and co-present findings at a stakeholder validation workshop
• Take part in regular team meetings and contribute to quality assurance
• Uphold research ethics, safeguarding and data-protection standards throughout

Qualifications

Essential

• A postgraduate degree in economics, development studies, social science, public policy or a related field (or equivalent research experience)
• At least 3 years of applied research experience in one or more Pacific Island countries
• Experience of household surveys, qualitative interviews or community-based research in the Pacific
• An understanding of culturally appropriate research practice in Pacific communities
• Availability for part-time work between November 2026 and February 2027

Preferred

• Research on labour mobility, migration, remittances, financial inclusion or small island economies (for example PALM, the Pacific Access Category or the Pacific Engagement Visa)
• Publications or reports for development partners, governments or regional organisations

We particularly welcome applications from Pacific Islanders, including people with disability and people from outer-island communities.

How to apply

Send your CV and a short note answering the screening questions by Wednesday 30 September 2026.