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Job description

Job Title: Research Lead Location: Remote Start Date: ASAP Line Manager: Programme Lead Duration: to Sept 2028 (fixed term contract) Hours: 7 hours per week Purpose of Role: The Ignite Community Research Lead (ICRL) will work closely with the Programme Lead to lead the delivery of the IC programme’s established research and impact framework. Building on the existing Theory of Change, impact analysis plan, baseline data and KPIs, the ICRL will refine and extend these tools, deliver ongoing evaluation across the 12 counties, and strengthen the evidence base for IC. They will communicate findings to key stakeholders with the aim of influencing decision makers. The role requires a dynamic individual with strong research skills and a commitment to excellence. They will have experience of working in the youth/education sector.

Responsibilities

• Lead delivery of the IC impact analysis plan, reviewing and revising it as the programme develops.
• Review and refine the Theory of Change (Logic Model) so it reflects programme learning.
• Complete the baseline dataset by building on existing survey data and designing and running further data collection where gaps remain.
• Monitor research and impact KPIs, reviewing and revising them as required.
• Build a strong, ongoing evidence base for the IC programme.
• Collate, analyse and present findings to a range of audiences.
• Share findings to influence key decision makers and future government strategy in NI and the Border Region of Ireland.
• Ad hoc duties as required, in line with the purpose of the role.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Significant experience of working in impact assessment and/or evaluation and/or project research - minimum 3 years’ experience.
• Proven experience in information analysis. Experienced in the design and development of research proposals.
• Communication skills, verbal and written, with fluency in English.
• IT skills and experience of use of technology to support analysis and research projects.
• Data management skills.
• Commitment to realising a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient world.
• Creative and entrepreneurial interests and skills.

Further Information

To apply, please send a CV and a supporting statement (no more than two pages) describing how you meet the essential criteria for this role to careers@youngsocialinnovators.ie Application Deadline: Noon on Monday 9th November 2026. Round 1 Interviews (Online): Monday 16th November 2026. Round 2 Interviews (Online): Tuesday 24th November 2026. Young Social Innovators is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds. We are an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information or disability status.