Position: Climate Change Lead Researcher

Location: Cairo, Egypt / Remote

Contract Type: Consultancy

Duration: 8-10 weeks

ABOUT Q2 IMPACT

The QED Group, LLC (dba Q2 Impact) is a global consulting firm with more than 25 years of experience providing data-driven and insightful solutions in close to 100 countries. We are passionate about transforming lives through knowledge-based solutions. Leveraging deep expertise in monitoring, evaluation, and learning, we help our clients collect, analyze, visualize, and ultimately use data in more effective ways to sustainably address complex global challenges. Our work maximizes results using cutting-edge technologies and innovation, organizational development, and evidence-based decision-making.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Q2 Impact is seeking a Climate Change Lead Researcher for the USAID/Egypt Learning Activity. The Lead Researcher will guide a team to conduct a comprehensive Climate Resilience Analysis as part of the development of their next Country Development Cooperation Strategy (CDCS). As per USAID ADS 201. The Lead Researcher will play a critical role in providing high-level technical expertise, data analysis, and strategic insights, using the USAID Climate Resilience Analysis Guidance (as outlined in ADS CDCS 201.3.10) to assess climate risks, vulnerabilities, and opportunities for climate resilience across Egypt. This analysis will be crucial for ensuring that the new CDCS integrates inclusive practices across its objectives, decision-making processes, and program activities.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

The ideal candidate will bring advanced knowledge in climate science, resilience strategies, and sustainable development practices, contributing to evidence-based decision-making and program design. We anticipate at a minimum the following requirements to complete this analysis:

1. Climate Risk and Vulnerability Analysis:

• Lead climate risk and vulnerability assessments for USAID/Egypt programs, applying the Climate Resilience Analysis Guidance (ADS CDCS 201.3.10). Analyze climate-related hazards, exposure, and impacts, providing recommendations on risk mitigation strategies and adaptation interventions.

• Support the mission in preparing for climate risk screening by reviewing relevant climate data, including country/region-specific climate risk profiles and analyses from other donors or governmental bodies.

2. Research Design and Implementation:

• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to generate relevant data that informs adaptive management and the development of effective, climate-resilient solutions.

• Lead the identification of climate risks and adaptive capacities using USAID's Climate Risk Screening and Management Tools, existing climate change vulnerability assessments, or tailored climate risk analysis. Provide recommendations on how to address identified risks within the mission's programming areas.

3. Data Synthesis and Reporting:

• Synthesize and interpret research findings, presenting data in a clear and actionable format. Prepare high-quality reports, policy briefs, and presentations on climate resilience, ensuring that all research outputs are aligned with USAID’s goals, policies, and climate resilience frameworks.

• Document climate risk findings in line with USAID’s guidelines, including the preparation of the Climate Change Annex to ensure that climate risks and mitigation strategies are integrated into the development hypothesis, results framework, and project proposals.

• Prepare a climate risk narrative within the CDCS, summarizing identified risks, climate projections, and the strategies for risk mitigation or adaptation that will be adopted in the mission’s portfolio. Ensure alignment with international frameworks, such as the UNFCCC National Adaptation Plans.

• Develop actionable climate resilience strategies and contribute to the development of the mission’s Country Development Cooperation Strategy (CDCS). Ensure that climate change risks are identified, addressed, and incorporated in the strategy.

4. Collaboration and Coordination:

• Coordinate closely with the USAID team and other stakeholders throughout the analysis process to ensure that deliverables are met in a timely manner.

• Participate in regular check-ins and update meetings to share progress and adapt methodologies based on feedback.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s degree in Climate Science, Environmental Studies, Sustainability, Development Economics, or a related field.

• Proven experience in conducting climate risk assessments, vulnerability analysis, and resilience building strategies, preferably in the context of Egypt or the MENA region.

• Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, collaborate with diverse stakeholders, and manage complex research projects.

• Strong familiarity with the USAID Climate Resilience Analysis Guidance (ADS CDCS 201.3.10), including the application of its principles in program design and implementation.

• Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and provide actionable recommendations.

• Experience working with international development agencies, government bodies, or NGOs in climate-related projects.

• Knowledge of USAID policies and procedures, especially those related to climate resilience, is highly desirable.

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to synthesize complex data into clear, actionable recommendations.

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, in English (Arabic proficiency is a plus).

• Experience working in Egypt or the MENA region is a significant advantage.

• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks within tight deadlines.

BENEFITS OF JOINING Q2IMPACT

• A dynamic group of professionals with diverse backgrounds and expertise, committed to delivering high-quality results and making a meaningful impact in communities around the world.

• An opportunity to lead and shape a growing firm that has a solid reputation in the industry and is poised for further expansion.

• A chance to work across development, diplomacy, and defense sectors, with a broad portfolio of projects and clients.

• A supportive and inclusive culture that values innovation, excellence, and collaboration.

Join our team at Q2 Impact, where your talents, expertise, and passion can make a difference. Apply today and become part of a dynamic and growing organization.

WORKING CONDITIONS & REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

The incumbent in this position will work in a professional office environment and will utilize the
following equipment when working

• Computer (laptop or desktop)

• Printer/Photocopier/Scanner/Fax

• Telephone

• Other (Specify if any)

The physical demands and work environment that have been described is representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Egyptian citizens are highly encouraged to apply.

This position description is an overview of the major functions and requirements of this position. This document is not intended to be an exhaustive list encompassing every duty and requirement of the position; the Employee’s Manager may assign other duties as related or as otherwise deemed appropriate and necessary within the general scope, without the need for additional compensation.

Q2 Impact is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans, and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. AA/V/D. Reasonable accommodation requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis.