MHPSS Research Specialist

Job title: MHPSS Research Specialist                

Unit: RCRC Movement MHPSS Hub (‘MHPSS Hub’) Copenhagen, Denmark

Reports to: Head of MHPSS Technical Unit

Responsible for: Driving the knowledge generation and research agenda within the RCRC Movement MHPSS Hub. Coordinating the MHPSS Research network in cooperation with the co-chairing National Societies (British & Swiss RC), writing research proposals and projects including Horizon Europe, National Institutes of Mental Health and ELHRA/ R2HC applications, and advising on or conducting research on behalf of Red Cross Red Crescent Movement partners.  

Contract period: 01.03.2025 – (open ended)

Background

The MHPSS Hub aims to improve mental health outcomes and psychosocial well-being through technical assistance, capacity development of National Societies, the IFRC and the ICRC, competence development of staff and volunteers, knowledge generation and knowledge sharing, research, and communication and humanitarian diplomacy, policy and advocacy. 

The MHPSS Hub does not work directly with the affected population but rather assists the National Societies, the IFRC and the ICRC to provide MHPSS services in accordance with their auxiliary role and mandate. The MHPSS Hub is organized around a team of MHPSS specialists, project managers, strategic communication specialists, and support services. It is led by a Director, who reports to the International Director at the Danish Red Cross. The Director also serves as secretary to the Steering Committee. The MHPSS Hub is hosted and supported by the Danish Red Cross, we operate under the legal identity of the Danish Red Cross, with all Hub staff employed by the Danish Red Cross.

Key tasks and responsibilities

• Advocate and drive the RCRC MHPSS research priorities and research agenda.
• Coordinate and co-lead the RCRC MHPSS research network with the British RC and Swiss RC.
• Organise the MHPSS Research Carnival.
• Explore possibilities for research development within the Movement.
• Lead on the writing and development of research components in project proposals, grant applications, research consortium bids e.g., Horizon Europe, ELHRA, Wellcome Trust and National Institutes of Mental Health. 
• Work alongside the Fundraising and Partnership team to maintain partnerships with academic partners and other relevant stakeholders. 
• Support the Communications team with research related content (e.g., podcasts, news articles/ blogs, website content Q&As, research network newsletter etc).
• Support the Head of Unit with strategic discussions.
• External representation of the MHPSS Hub at research-related events and conferences.
• Any other task assigned by Line Manager or Director of the MHPSS Hub. 

Experience and skill requirement

• Requirement: A PhD and post-doctoral experience in global mental health, psychology, social care and/ or psychiatry. 
• Requirement: Minimum 5 (five) years of relevant work experience in conducting research related to MHPSS.
• Requirement: Proven skills in developing and drafting research proposals, research grant applications and working within research consortiums involving academics and practitioners based in high and low income settings. 
• Experience in working for or volunteering with the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement. 
• Strong organizational, communication and networking skills.
• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office package and statistical software packages.
• Aptitude for learning and using new digital tools and databases.
• Advanced written and spoken English is required; knowledge of spoken Arabic, French, Spanish, Russian and/or Chinese is a definitive advantage.

Personal profile 

• A structured, independent, and proactive approach to tasks 
• Excellent communication, coordination as well as networking and facilitation skills
• Ability to meet deadlines, multi-task, and work well in a fast-paced environment
• Strong team-player skills and ability to work independently 
• Excellent writing skills and ability to communicate precisely and in writing
• Experience from working with people with different cultural backgrounds
• Prepared to contribute to a positive working environment

Salary level: 49000 DKK – 52500 DKK/ month including pension contributions.

Place of employment: Danish Red Cross is the legal employer and duty station will be Copenhagen with regular international travels, including to humanitarian contexts worldwide. 

Application deadline Friday 24 January 2025.