Principal Officer, Research and Capacity Building at African Union | Deadline: 1 December 2025

November 11, 2025 KIAN

Principal Officer, Research and Capacity Building at African Union | Deadline: 1 December 2025

Organization Overview

The African Union (AU), a continental organization headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, promotes unity, peace, and sustainable development across Africa. Through its various organs and specialized agencies, the AU works to accelerate integration and prosperity for all African nations.

This position is based at the African Centre for the Study and Research on Migration (ACSRM), located in Bamako, Mali.

Job Title: Principal Officer, Research and Capacity Building

Department: African Centre for the Study and Research on Migration (ACSRM)
Reports To: Deputy Executive Director
Number of Positions: 1
Grade: P4
Contract Type: Regular (3 years, renewable)
Location: Bamako, Mali
Posting Start Date: 31 October 2025
Deadline: 1 December 2025

Purpose of the Job

The Principal Officer, Research and Capacity Building leads, coordinates, and oversees the African Union’s research and training initiatives on migration. The role focuses on enhancing understanding of African migration trends and building the capacity of Member States and Regional Economic Communities (RECs) to address migration challenges effectively.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Provide leadership in planning, implementing, and evaluating research and capacity-building programs.
Develop and manage strategic plans aligned with the Centre’s overall objectives.
Coordinate research projects, capacity-building activities, and flagship publications such as the African Migration Journal and Policy Briefs Series.
Liaise with migration scholars, experts, and policymakers to advance African migration research.
Supervise and mentor interns, consultants, and junior researchers.
Represent the Centre at international conferences and policy forums.
Draft and edit technical reports, policy briefs, working papers, and project proposals.
Mobilize resources and contribute to the Centre’s fundraising efforts.
Lead organization of seminars, workshops, webinars, and other academic or policy events.

Academic Requirements and Experience

Master’s degree in Migration Studies, Sociology, Political Science, Economics, Law, International Relations, Development Studies, or related fields, with 10 years of relevant experience.
Or Bachelor’s degree in a related field with 12 years of relevant experience.
A Ph.D. in a relevant discipline is an added advantage.
At least 3 years in a supervisory and 6 years at expert/specialist level roles.
Strong research and publishing experience, particularly in African migration studies.
Proven experience managing large-scale migration programs and partnerships.
Solid background in grant writing, project management, and strategic planning.

Required Skills and Competencies

Technical expertise in social research and training.
Strong analytical, conceptual, and report-writing skills.
Excellent understanding of African and global migration trends.
Proven ability to manage complex programs and lead teams.
Excellent communication and presentation skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, statistical software (SPSS, STATA, NVivo), and online collaboration tools.
Ability to work effectively in multicultural environments.
Fluency in at least one AU working language (English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, Kiswahili, or Spanish); proficiency in more than one is an asset.

AU Core Values

Respect for Diversity and Teamwork
Transparency and Accountability
Integrity and Impartiality
Efficiency and Professionalism
Information and Knowledge Sharing
Think Africa Above All

Tenure and Benefits

Contract Duration: 3 years (renewable, subject to performance)
Annual Basic Salary: USD 42,879.00 (P4 Step 1)
Post Adjustment: 52% of basic salary
Housing Allowance: USD 22,968.00 per annum
Education Allowance: Up to USD 10,000.00 per child (international staff)

Gender and Diversity Commitment

The African Union Commission is an equal opportunity employer.
Qualified female candidates and applicants from least represented countries are strongly encouraged to apply.