Independent Researcher

About Bahir Dar University

Bahir Dar University (BDU), situated in the picturesque Bahir Dar city by Lake Tana and the Blue Nile, is among Ethiopia's largest higher education institutions. Established in 2000 through merging Bahir Dar Polytechnic and Bahir Dar Teachers’ College, it currently educates over 40,000 students through diverse undergraduate, postgraduate, specialty, and certificate programs. The university comprises multiple colleges, faculties, institutes, schools, and campuses, supported by a significant academic and administrative workforce. BDU operates under core principles of excellence, innovation, social responsibility, diversity, and internationalization, aspiring to rank within Africa’s top ten research universities by 2025. It hosts 12 dedicated research centres and is recognized as a national and regional Center of Excellence in fields such as teacher education, textile engineering, land administration, maritime studies, disaster risk management, and food security.

Role Overview

The Independent Researcher will undertake original research projects that align with the strategic priorities of Bahir Dar University and its research centres. Based on-site in Canada, this role entails designing and executing research ventures, gathering and analyzing both qualitative and quantitative data, and producing comprehensive research outputs including reports, scholarly articles, and policy briefs. The position involves collaborating with local and global partners, disseminating findings at academic seminars and conferences, contributing to grant writing and project proposals, and mentoring junior researchers or students as applicable. Ensuring adherence to ethical standards and institutional research guidelines is a key responsibility.

Qualifications and Skills

• Expertise in research design and methodologies, with experience in qualitative and/or quantitative research approaches.
• Proficient in data collection, management, and analytical/statistical tools pertinent to the research focus.
• Strong capacity to prepare clear, structured reports, manuscripts, and proposals tailored for academic and broader audiences.
• Effective interpersonal and communication skills conducive to teamwork across disciplines and with external collaborators.
• Possession of a Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant academic discipline; advanced research training or postdoctoral experience is advantageous.
• Experience in securing grants or involvement in funded research projects is desirable.
• Familiarity with academic research environments, ethics review mechanisms, and responsible research practices.
• Demonstrated ability to work autonomously, balance multiple projects, and meet deadlines in an on-site Canadian research context.