Senior Researcher / Senior Researcheress

Join Our Humanitarian Mission

We are seeking passionate candidates who are ready to contribute to our humanitarian efforts. Below, you will find the details of the position and the qualifications we are looking for.

Inclusivity and Diversity at MSF

At Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), we are committed to fostering an inclusive culture that amplifies the diverse voices of our staff members. We strive to create workplaces where individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives work together to advance MSF's mission and improve outcomes for our patients and the communities we serve.

We encourage applications from individuals of all genders, ages, sexual orientations, ethnicities, backgrounds, religions, beliefs, ability statuses, and all other diversity characteristics. We recognize that some may hesitate to apply if they do not meet every job requirement. If you believe your qualifications align well with this position, we invite you to apply online using the form below, even if you don’t fulfill every listed qualification.

MSF does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, nor any form of discrimination or harassment. All selected candidates will undergo reference checks.

Context & Mission

MSF is an independent, international medical and humanitarian organization that provides care to those in need, particularly people affected by disasters or armed conflict, without discrimination based on race, religion, creed, or political affiliation.

The "Unité de Réflexion sur les Enjeux et Pratiques Humanitaires" (UREPH) is an internal research group within MSF OCG dedicated to analyzing key humanitarian issues encountered in the field. Our research addresses the impact of policies on vulnerable populations and reflects critically on our internal assistance practices. UREPH also publishes findings, represents MSF at conferences, and facilitates discussions to enhance operational responses to pressing humanitarian challenges, including ethics, safety, and gender-based violence.

Position Overview

The UREPH is seeking a Senior Researcher to lead research initiatives aligned with the unit’s strategic plan. The role includes representing MSF at various forums and participating in field assignments related to research activities.

Tasks & Responsibilities

• Develop the strategic plan of UREPH in collaboration with the Head of Unit.
• Identify and formulate key research issues and facilitate parallel discussions.
• Produce and publish research articles in academic journals and other outlets.
• Design studies and develop methodologies for research projects.
• Collect field data and bibliography as needed.
• Write and finalize articles, incorporating peer reviews, and manage submissions.
• Present research findings at internal and external meetings and lead discussions.
• Contribute to partnerships with academic institutions and humanitarian organizations.
• Participate in relevant conferences and represent UREPH in discussions.
• Adapt research priorities to meet operational needs and stimulate critical thinking.

Your Profile

Education

PhD or Master’s degree in social sciences, with a background in health being a bonus.

Experience

• Ten years of operational experience in the field and HQ with MSF.
• Experience in research, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
• Proven ability to build and maintain networks within research and humanitarian sectors.
• Track record of academic contributions, including peer-reviewed publications.
• Management experience is a plus.

Languages

Fluency in English and French (written and spoken) is mandatory.

Skills & Technical Competencies

• Ability to draft reports and peer-reviewed publications.
• Strong representation and team leadership skills.
• Understanding of institutional issues and operational humanitarian stakes.
• Flexibility to adjust research priorities in response to operational needs.

Personal Qualities

• Team-oriented yet capable of working independently.
• Organized with a structured approach to work.

Employment Terms

• Full-time position (100% - 40 hours per week).
• Open-ended contract.
• Location: Geneva, Switzerland.
• Expected start date: September 1st, 2026.
• Gross annual salary: CHF 110,652 to CHF 126,228 (commensurate with experience).
• Paid vacation: 25 days per year, plus Swiss public holidays.
• Pension plan: 75% covered by MSF, 25% by the employee.

How to Apply

If you are interested in this position, please apply online using the form below. Ensure your application includes:

• CV (maximum 2 pages)
• Cover letter (maximum 1 page)

All documents must be submitted in English or French. The application deadline is May 25th, 2026. Please note, only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier if a sufficient number of quality applications are received. All applications will be treated confidentially, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. We do not engage the services of recruitment or placement agencies.