Research & Mel Associate

 

Description:

Network of Organizations Working with People with Disabilities (NOWPDP) is a non-governmental

organization that promotes an inclusive society through holistic and sustainable endeavours in education and

economic empowerment.

NOWPDP is seeking an experienced, proactive, detail-oriented, and values-driven Research & MEL Associate

— ideally with a background in Statistics, Economics, Data Analytics, or Social Sciences — to conduct the in-

depth quantitative and qualitative applied and pure research. This individual will be responsible for conducting

both quantitative and qualitative research within the organization. The role will involve having the ability to go

deeper and analyze extensive datasets to demonstrate the organization’s long-term impact, while also

generating knowledge and scholarly literature in the field of disability. The aim is to inform advocacy efforts,

course correction, and new interventions as well as contribute to strengthening the presence of disability

studies within Pakistan’s academic and literary landscape. Additionally, the individual will perform Monitoring,

Evaluation, and Learning (MEL)-related tasks within the programs to enhance the quality of delivery.

 

Job Responsibilities:

 

1. Data Collection and Analysis

● The Research & MEL Associate will be responsible for conducting both qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis with a focus on disability. The role aims to generate evidence that informs

programmatic interventions, supports the organization’s advocacy efforts, fills the academic and policy gap in disability, and ensures the overall quality and effectiveness of its programs.

 

a. Quantitative Data Collection and Analysis

● Collect, clean, and analyze large datasets spanning multiple years or of a huge sample.

● Use statistical and computational methods (e.g., regression, trend analysis etc.) to demonstrate the

organization’s long-term impact or develop findings from surveys, questionnaires etc.

● Assist in developing dashboards and reports to make findings accessible.

b. Qualitative Data Collection and Analysis

● Conduct interviews, focus group discussions, and case studies with relevant stakeholders.

● Analyze qualitative data through various data analysis methods such as thematic and content analysis.

● Assist in producing research and literature that advance understanding of disability issues.

 

2. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning

● Assist in designing and implementing MEL frameworks, tools, and methodologies aligned with

organizational objectives.

● Track progress of programs through routine monitoring, ensuring data accuracy and timeliness.

● Assist in evaluations (baseline, midline, endline, impact assessments) to measure program

effectiveness.

● Synthesize findings into actionable insights to guide program improvement and decision-making.

● Facilitate organizational learning by documenting lessons learned and best practices.

● Support capacity building of program teams in MEL practices, data management, and results reporting.

● Contribute to donor reporting by providing evidence-based inputs and ensuring compliance with MEL

requirements.

 

3. Data Visualization & Representation

● Develop clear and engaging data visualizations (charts, graphs, dashboards, infographics) to present

MEL and research findings.

● Use common visualization and reporting tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI, Tableau) to make data accessible

and user-friendly.

● Summarize complex datasets into visual reports that support decision-making, advocacy, and

program communication.

● Ensure visual outputs are accurate, consistent, and tailored for both technical and non-technical

audiences.

 

4. Report Writing & Documentation

● Assist in preparing high-quality research reports, policy briefs, concept notes, and evidence-based

papers to inform stakeholders and decision-makers.

● Assist in developing monitoring and evaluation reports.

● Ensuring the reports are well-structured, proof-read, referenced, analytical, and aligned with

organizational standards and donor requirements.

 

5. Data Storage & Management

● Maintain organized and secure databases for both qualitative and quantitative datasets.

● Ensure proper data cleaning, coding, and archiving in line with data protection and ethical standards.

● Support the transition to digital data collection and storage tools where applicable.