Call for Consultancy: Exploring Traditional Knowledge, Attitudes and Anticipatory Actions in Response to Natural Disasters

Oxfam is seeking to appoint an organisation or team of consultants to explore local attitudes and approaches of communities that are vulnerable to natural disasters, to anticipatory action. The research will look at ways in which Oxfam, and other organisations can build on existing community knowledge and practices to mitigate the effects of crises and minimise loss and damage. The research will focus on selected communities across Vanuatu and Timor-Leste. For more information, see the attached Terms of Reference.

KEY SKILLS, TECHNICAL BACKGROUND, AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

We are looking for consultants or organisations with

• Knowledge, background, and experience in conducting research on resilience and risk reduction, disaster preparedness, anticipatory action, early warning systems, humanitarian response and/or recovery.
• High-level (more than 7 years for lead consultants) experience in research design, baselines or evaluations
• Strong track record of using participatory data collection and inclusive research methodology
• Past experience conducting research in Vanuatu and/or Timor-Leste and capacity to coordinate primary data collection in these countries preferred.

The time frame for this project is 60 days (to be completed within 12 weeks).

Applicants with capacity to conduct primary data collection in Vanuatu and Timor-Leste preferred, however all submissions will be considered. Oxfam will consider proposals from consultants/consulting firms with capacity to conduct the research in any or all of the proposed countries. The proposal should detail how and when the consultant will work remotely, and if Oxfam will be expected to provide staff in country for data collection.

HOW TO APPLY

Click "Apply Now". Eligible candidates are required to submit:

• Technical proposal (no more than 7 pages) detailing the proposed research methods, including qualitative, quantitative, participatory, and audio-visual methods as appropriate. Indicate whether and how these will be gendered, methods of quality assurance, risk management and work plan. The proposal should expand on the objectives and scope outlined in the terms of reference, or propose alternatives, not just repeat them. Proposals should also outline any conceptual framework to be used in the research and identify assumptions.
• Financial proposal detailing the budget and breakdown of costs. Applicants are encouraged to include all costs related to data collection, travel and logistics, translation and meetings.
• CVs of the researcher(s) demonstrating their qualifications, experience and understanding of anticipatory action, CBDRM and/or traditional knowledge in the Pacific context.
• Examples of relevant work