At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct in-depth research on Burkina Faso's political and social landscape, analysing media and social media.
- Company: Join the Centre for Information Resilience, a leader in human rights advocacy and digital investigations.
- Benefits: Remote work, flexible hours, and the chance to make a real impact on global issues.
- Other info: Opportunity to manage a diverse team and grow your career in a meaningful way.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of exposing human rights violations and shaping narratives in conflict zones.
- Qualifications: Strong understanding of Burkina Faso's context and excellent investigative skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Centre for Information Resilience (CIR) is an independent organisation dedicated to exposing human rights violations and threats to democracy. We achieve this through open source research, digital investigations, capacity-building with local partners, and collaboration with media to amplify our impact.
CIR was born out of a determination to expose those spreading harm – online and offline – around the world, particularly in areas of violent conflict, such as Ukraine, Sudan and Myanmar. Our projects are at the forefront of efforts to investigate and document human rights abuses, war crimes, harms targeting women and minorities, and influence operations. We work closely with multilateral and national justice accountability bodies.
Contract Type: Contractor
Contract length: 3 months, with the possibility of extension up to 12 months.
Hours needed: Full time - 5 days a week at 8 hours a day.
Location: Remote.
Languages: You must be able to speak and write English and French.
Closing date: 16 June 2026 at 23:55pm.
About the Role
The Centre for Information Resilience (CIR) is recruiting a senior researcher and expert on Burkina Faso. The role is open to candidates based inside Burkina Faso or in the regional/international diaspora, working securely and remotely where field presence is not feasible. CIR requires the support of a Burkina Faso expert with a deep understanding of the Sahelian and West African context to conduct media, social media, and (where safe) field research.
Main responsibilities
- Conduct media, social media, and (where safe) field research in Burkina Faso.
- Analyse and synthesise gathered information and identify links between key pieces of evidence, distinguishing verifiable findings from analytical judgement.
- Conduct key informant interviews — remotely or in person — to deepen understanding of key research questions.
- Deliver comprehensive, well-sourced reports highlighting key information, links, patterns, and risks.
- Manage a team of researchers.
Experience needed:
- Strong, current understanding of the Burkinabè political, security, religious, and information landscape, including the dynamics of the transition.
- Demonstrated familiarity with the principal armed groups and influence actors affecting the information space.
- Excellent investigative skills and a curious, sceptical mind.
- Ability to operate in a logical, methodical, evidence-led manner with strong attention to detail and rigorous sourcing.
- Analytical ability to identify links and connections using contextual information, and to explicitly flag uncertainty.
- Strong operational security awareness and discretion, given the sensitivity of the subject matter and the constraints of the press and research environment.
- Experience managing a diverse team.
Desired Skills
- Fluency in one or more of Burkina Faso's local languages.
- Knowledge or experience scanning and reporting on social media activity across Facebook, WhatsApp, Telegram, and TikTok — the platforms that dominate the Burkinabè information ecosystem.
- Knowledge or experience in approaches to building resilience to disinformation and harmful influence.
- Familiarity with open-source research methods.
- Experience in remote management or on remotely managed programs.
How to apply
To apply, please submit your CV, a writing sample in English or French, and complete the application form questions. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview, which may be conducted remotely unless specified otherwise. CIR encourages applicants from under-represented communities. CIR is an equal opportunities employer. If you require adjustments or additional support to complete this process, please let us know in your application.
Senior Burkina Faso Country Researcher in London employer: Centre for Information Resilience
The Centre for Information Resilience (CIR) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to vital human rights work from the comfort of your own home. With a strong commitment to employee growth and a collaborative work culture, CIR empowers its team members to engage in meaningful research that drives social change, all while providing flexibility and support for those based in Burkina Faso or the diaspora. Join us in making a difference in the world, where your expertise can help expose injustices and promote accountability.
Contact Details:
Centre for Information Resilience Recruitment Team
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We think this is how you could land Senior Burkina Faso Country Researcher in London
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