Field Research Specialist - Volunteer Position - Onsite in Nepal

Project description

The Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science (IAAS) at Tribhuwan University and Agriculture Knowledge Centers (AKCs) in Lamjung and Arghakhanchi Districts in Nepal have requested the support of Peace Corps Response Volunteers (PCRVs) to serve as Field Research Specialists. Over 66% of Nepal’s population takes part in agriculture, but weak linkages between research, farmer, extension, and education agencies and poor extension services have been identified as some of the major bottlenecks hindering adoption of new agricultural technologies. IAAS and ACKs have identified problem-based field research as one of the key areas that they want to improve.

The PCRVs will work closely with the assigned counterpart and supervisor to assess ongoing research activities, facilitate training sessions on research design and implementation, and provide onsite mentoring and coaching to the staff undertaking field-level research. The PCRVs may also assess ongoing market research activities in the business incubation center, agriculture based developed technologies and their adaptation status and collaborate with faculty on designing standard business incubation protocols for prioritized agricultural startup businesses.

Candidates selected for this position will be arriving in Nepal together as a group, so while the departure dates for the whole group could change, dates cannot be changed for individual candidates.

Required Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in any relevant field, such as agriculture, animal science, agriculture economics, statistics, research, sociology, business management, or agriculture extension;
• 1 year of experience in research assistance, including the use of different statistical tools
• Strong coordination and community integration skills
• Demonstrated ability to live and work in a multi-cultural setting
• Excellent people skills with demonstrated flexibility and patience
  
  

Living conditions

Learn more about the Volunteer experience in Nepal: Get detailed information on culture, communications, housing, and health/crime statistics in order to make a well-informed decision about serving.

Medical considerations

Before you apply, please review medical clearance and legal clearance to learn about the process.