Researcher at the European Roma Rights Centre Location: Budapest - Hungary DL: 12 October 2011

The ERRC seeks qualified applicants for the position of Researcher. Reporting to the Coordinator of Research and Advocacy, the Researcher develops and implements research and advocacy work in relation to the ERRC’s strategic priorities, by providing human rights research knowledge and know-how, strong analysis and effective communication skills.

Areas of Responsibility: In consultation with the Coordinator of Research and Advocacy, in cooperation with country team members and in accordance with the country focus of this position:
Organisation of and participation in desk and field research on human rights developments pertaining to Roma, consisting of fact-finding and analysis, including in rapid response to emergencies;
Timely, accurate and impartial assessment of the human rights situation of Roma;
Development and maintenance of effective relations with colleagues and external contacts and partners including Romani representatives, other human rights activists and civil society representatives, researchers, governmental and inter-governmental representatives, service providers and lawyers;
Writing of reports, advocacy submissions, letters of concern and other materials for internal use and publication and provide input into materials produced by colleagues;
Effective storage and sharing of information and research work within the programmes and legal departments;
Staying abreast of international and domestic advocacy opportunities and provision of input on which meetings and opportunities the ERRC should seize;
Representation of the ERRC externally with civil society organisations, governmental and inter-governmental bodies, donors, social, political and other actors, and communication of ERRC positions;
Establishment of individual work plans and monitoring progress;
Completion of necessary administrative tasks for own work;
Contributions to the Roma Rights journal and other ERRC communications tools, as appropriate;
Assistance implementing ERRC training programmes, as necessary;
Collaboration with ERRC interns and contribution to their learning and development; and
Other tasks as requested.

Required experience and skills:
University degree in human rights, social sciences or a related field;
At least two years experience conducting desk and field research on human rights, Roma rights or related issues;
Experience writing factual research and advocacy reports and other materials;
Significant experience living and working in Romani communities is desirable;
Strong English language skills required; strong knowledge of Czech or Slovak required, Russian and/or Romani preferred;
Strong, clear oral and written communication skills; ability to represent effectively ERRC positions in public;
Understanding and sensitivity in dealing with different people and groups including survivors of human rights violations;
Strong team player; ability to work independently;
Attentive to deadlines, flexible and able to deal with high workload;
Willingness to travel for work, either alone or with colleagues;
Demonstrated commitment to the promotion of Roma rights; and
Proven ability to work in a diverse team.

Remuneration: Based at the ERRC office in Budapest, the remuneration level for this full time position shall be commensurate with experience, ranging between 23,000 - 28,000 EUR gross per year (payable in Hungarian forints). In accordance with the annual budget approved by the board of directors, ERRC employees are provided fringe benefits and access to a professional development fund.

Expected start date: The successful applicant is expected to start as soon as possible and no later than the end of November 2011.

How to apply:
Qualified candidates should send the following application materials; persons submitting incomplete application packages will not be considered for the position:
Maximum 500 word letter of interest
Detailed CV in English;
Contact details for two present or former employers (reference should be from immediate supervisor) and one other relevant referee; and
An unedited English-language writing sample by the applicant (preferably human rights focused).

Submit to: Dora Eke - ERRC Researcher Search
dora.eke@errc.org
Fax: +36.1.413.2201

Application deadline: 16:00 on 12 October 2011. Applications received after this date will not be considered. Short-listed applicants will be notified within one week of the deadline; applicants who are not short-listed will not be contacted.