Oxfam Research Global NGO Researchers

In an era defined by global challenges—widening inequality, climate crises, humanitarian emergencies, and social exclusion—the role of rigorous, actionable research has never been more critical.

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In response to these urgent needs,
Oxfam
, one of the world’s leading international NGOs, is gearing up for research job opportunities in 2026 that aim to harness evidence, data, and deep insights to tackle systemic injustice and shape transformative solutions.

Whether you’re an experienced researcher seeking purpose-driven impact or a rising professional passionate about social justice,
Oxfam’s research career pathways offer meaningful ways to contribute to global social change. This article explores what makes these roles unique, who they are for, what to expect, and how to start your application.

Oxfam operates across more than 90 countries, working at the intersection of humanitarian assistance, development, advocacy, and policy influence. Central to all of this work is research that informs strategies, shapes policy advocacy, improves programming, and ensures accountability to the communities it serves
.

Unlike academic research that remains locked behind journal paywalls or theoretical frameworks, research at Oxfam is action-oriented and policy-driven
. Findings are translated into real-world recommendations designed to influence governments, multilaterals, donors, and grassroots partners. Researchers at Oxfam help answer big questions like:

• What are the root systemic causes of poverty, inequality, and climate injustice?
• How effective are development and humanitarian interventions?
• What policy shifts are needed to protect the rights of women, children, and marginalized communities?
• How can Oxfam and partners improve program impact and sustainability?

This blending of intellectual rigor with practical advocacy makes research roles at Oxfam both challenging and exceptionally impactful.

While specific job listings vary by region and funding cycles,
research roles at Oxfam typically include
:

These positions often support ongoing field, qualitative, or quantitative studies. For example, Oxfam in Malawi is currently recruiting Research Assistants to assist with surveys, data collection, and analysis.

Ideal for: Early-career researchers or recent graduates with strong analytical skills.

These roles involve deeper engagement with data synthesis, statistical analysis, and production of research outputs such as reports and policy briefs.

Ideal for: Candidates with solid methodological expertise and professional experience in research, development studies, economics, policy analysis, or related fields.

Some positions focus on thematic priorities such as gender justice, economic inequality, climate change, humanitarian response, or private sector accountability. Previously, roles like Researcher in Business, Human Rights, and Evaluation have been advertised, emphasizing these intersections.

These roles provide strategic leadership over research portfolios, oversee teams across geographies, and ensure that research influences advocacy priorities and program strategies. While individual openings shift with organizational priorities, leadership roles often require extensive experience and academic credentials.

Although specific responsibilities differ by role and location,
typical research job duties include:

• Designing and implementing research projects that align with Oxfam’s strategic goals.
• Collecting and analyzing qualitative and quantitative data.
• Writing reports, policy briefs, briefing notes, and analytical pieces.
• Communicating insights to policymakers, partners, and community stakeholders.
• Collaborating with program teams, external partners, academic institutions, and local stakeholders.
• Supporting monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) to improve program effectiveness.

These activities ensure that research is not just about understanding the…