At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct research on WASH integration in climate plans for low- and middle-income countries.
- Company: Join WaterAid, a leader in global water, sanitation, and hygiene advocacy.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, impactful work, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborate with international teams and contribute to meaningful advocacy efforts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in climate adaptation and water security worldwide.
- Qualifications: 5+ years of research experience in climate or development issues required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Water Aid’s vision is a world where everyone has access to safe and sustainable water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). As part of our work to achieve this, we influence global commitments and policies on water supply and sanitation and wider issues of climate change and water security.
Background
WaterAid has been advocating and working with partner governments to incorporate climate resilient WASH into Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and National Adaptation Plans (NAPs). As a crucial part of climate adaptation and resilience, as well as holding significant mitigation potential, it is important that WASH is mainstreamed into all climate action. Many countries have successfully integrated WASH into their climate plans, with more still in progress.
Objective
To examine the integration of WASH in NAPs and NDCs in low- and middle-income countries and analyse to what extent and in what ways climate resilient WASH is incorporated into climate plans. More specifically:
- Provide quantitative data on how many of the NAPs and NDCs contain planned actions on climate resilient WASH, including disparities across water, sanitation and hygiene.
- Provide qualitative insights on the degree of inclusion of climate resilient WASH in the relevant NAPs and NDCs in line with WaterAid’s 5 criteria for integrating WASH into national climate plans and building block conceptualisation of the WASH system.
Research Questions
- How many low- and middle-income countries have integrated climate-resilient WASH into their most recent NAPs and NDCs, and in what form?
- To what extent is climate-resilient WASH incorporated into these countries NAPs and NDCs?
Scope of Work
Geographic scope
The consultant will obtain and review all of the most recently published NDCs and NAPs of low- and middle-income Parties to the Paris Agreement, 154 countries in total, as well as any subsidiary plans and strategies (such as investment, financing, implementation and monitoring and evaluation plans).
Thematic considerations
The consultant will consider all elements of water, sanitation (including wastewater) and hygiene as included in the plans, providing differential information on how each of these is represented. The consultant, in consultation with the client, will define the inclusion and exclusion criteria and keywording for different activities listed in the plans. The consultant will follow WaterAid’s five criteria for including WASH in NAPs and NDCs and WaterAid’s building block conceptualisation of the WASH system in their analysis of strengths and weaknesses in the inclusion of climate-resilient WASH in NAPs and NDCs. They will also draw on existing analysis from sector partners, which will be made available to them. Raw data on the inclusion of water within the latest round of NDCs will be shared by WaterAid with the consultant. They will be expected to supplement this with data from NAPs and any further data needed on NDCs, which will be obtained through the relevant governments’ websites. Where a document is not available in English, the consultant will be required to translate the relevant documents and factor any associated cost in their proposal.
Approach and Methodology
The consultant will propose the detailed methodology, conduct the research and provide the findings to WaterAid. This will include defining the indicators for assessing the strengths and weaknesses of WASH inclusion against WaterAid’s five criteria for including WASH in NAPs and NDCs. The key task and activities will include:
- Inception stage: conducting kick call, and inception alignment on proposed methodology and other project details.
- Develop and sign-off on the assessment criteria and approach with Head of Climate Policy.
- Check in regularly with WaterAid staff to refine findings and structure of report.
- Draft high-quality report.
- Present results at a validation workshop.
Expected Outcomes
This work will be used to provide evidence for WaterAid’s advocacy on NDCs and NAPs. The findings will be incorporated into multiple advocacy products, including briefings, letters and reports, to evidence the existing country-demand for action on climate-resilient WASH and highlight areas for improvement.
Timeline
Overall duration: July-August 2026
Key milestones:
- Inception presentation by July 10th
- Draft report by July 24th
- Final report by August 21st
Reporting
The consultant will report to the Lead Policy Analyst on Climate.
Ethical and Data Protections Considerations
All data and analysis shared by sector partners must be used exclusively for this analysis and not shared or reproduced further.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Bidders must comply with WaterAid UK’s AI Policy. Any proposed use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the design, analysis, or reporting of this research must be explicitly disclosed and justified. AI tools may support technical tasks (e.g. transcription and translation support or coding assistance), but they must not replace qualified human subject-matter expertise. Responsibility for analytical rigour, interpretation, and ethical decision-making remains with the consultant team. Personally identifiable or sensitive data—including transcripts containing names, contact details, or contextual identifiers—must not be uploaded to public or unapproved AI platforms. Any AI-assisted data processing must comply with applicable data protection regulations and WaterAid’s internal data classification standards. Bidders must clearly state: (1) whether AI tools will be used, (2) for what purpose, (3) what safeguards will protect data privacy and confidentiality, and (4) how transparency of AI-assisted outputs will be ensured. Non-disclosure of AI use or inadequate data safeguards may constitute grounds for contract termination.
Eligibility and Qualifications
- Experience (>5 years) designing and conducting desk-based research analysing national-level plans and strategies.
- Experience (>5 years) in designing and conducting analysis on climate or development issues.
- Advanced knowledge and expertise on WASH and/or climate and water.
- Experience of developing research which delivers findings for advocacy organisations or international NGOs.
- Excellent research, writing, communication and project management skills.
- Experience working across an international environment remotely.
- Advanced understanding of NAPs and NDCs.
- Good knowledge of climate finance and the global goal on adaptation.
Research Consultant – WASH, NDCs and Climate Adaptation in London employer: WaterAid
WaterAid is an exceptional employer dedicated to creating a world where everyone has access to safe and sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we foster a collaborative work culture that values innovation and inclusivity, providing opportunities for meaningful contributions to global climate action. Our location offers a vibrant environment where passionate individuals can thrive while making a tangible impact on communities worldwide.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Consultant – WASH, NDCs and Climate Adaptation in London
✨Connect with Local NGOs
Dive into local non-profit events and community workshops—these are goldmines for freelance gigs in the social impact space. Networking with pro-bono organisations can lead to discovering opportunities where your skills can shine.
✨Showcase Your Impact Portfolio
Create a compelling portfolio that highlights your past social impact projects. This should include client testimonials and case studies—real stories that show how you've made a difference. Use platforms like Behance or a personal website to host your work.
✨Engage with Online Communities
Join Facebook groups and LinkedIn communities focused on social impact and non-profits. Participating in discussions not only builds your reputation but can also lead to freelance gigs as other members share job opportunities.
✨Pitch to Non-Profit Startups
Many start-ups in the non-profit sector are looking for freelancers who can support their mission. Research potential projects, approach them with tailored pitches that explain how you can help, and apply directly through our website for a solid starting point!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Consultant – WASH, NDCs and Climate Adaptation in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Impact:When applying for a freelance role in social impact projects, let your enthusiasm shine through! In your application, share personal anecdotes or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to social causes. This helps us see why you're a perfect fit for making a difference with WaterAid.
Craft a Tailored Portfolio:For our freelance positions, it’s really important to include a portfolio that showcases your previous work in the nonprofit sector or social impact initiatives. Highlight projects that align closely with the kind of work WaterAid does, and don’t forget to include metrics or outcomes to illustrate your impact!
Outline Your Availability and Rates Clearly:Transparency is key in freelance applications! Make sure to include your availability and any rate expectations in your application. This gives us a clear understanding of how you can fit into our projects and helps to set the stage for a smooth collaboration.
Connect the Dots in Your CV:When it comes to your CV, focus on relevant experiences that highlight your skills in project management, grant writing, or community engagement. Tailor your CV to reflect the specific requirements of the freelance role at WaterAid to help us understand how you can directly contribute to our mission.
How to prepare for a job interview at WaterAid
✨Showcase Your Impact
As we're diving into the world of nonprofits and social impact projects, it’s vital to highlight your previous work that made a difference. Bring along case studies or examples from your freelance projects that emphasise your ability to create positive change and measure outcomes. Let’s show WaterAid how you’ve delivered real results!
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you’d handle specific challenges in the nonprofit space. They might throw real-world scenarios your way to see your problem-solving skills in action. Practise articulating your thought process, as this will demonstrate not only competence but also a genuine passion for the issues at stake.
✨Pitch Your Unique Value
Remember, freelancing means you’re not just someone they hire; you’re a partner in their mission. Be prepared to sell your unique skillset and how it fits their needs. Tailor your pitch based on the social causes they're involved in to show that you understand and resonate with their goals.
✨Bring the Right Tools
In the nonprofit sector, familiarity with project management and collaboration tools can set you apart. Whether it’s Trello, Asana, or Google Workspace, have examples ready of how you’ve used these tools in past projects to streamline your work. This will illustrate your organisational skills and readiness to be an effective team member from day one.
