Research Officer
Role: Research Officer
Location: Based at FEBA’s head office in Brussels
Contract period: 1-year fixed-term contract
Reporting to: Network Development & Policy Department
Stipend: € 35.000 pa excluding benefits
Summary
The European Food Banks Federation (FEBA) is dedicated to supporting Food Banks across 30 European countries in their mission to alleviate hunger and reduce food waste. As a leading NGO in Belgium and Europe, FEBA strives to create sustainable partnerships and mobilise resources that empower FEBA Members to deliver impactful results.
As a Research Officer at FEBA, you will play a crucial role in supporting our organisation’s efforts to bring visibility to members’ work, to understand trends of food insecurity and poverty in Europe and support the accurate and reliable collection and analysis of data from across our 30 members. You will work closely with our Network Development and Policy & Advocacy team to collect, analyse, and disseminate data on food distribution, nutritional needs, and socio-economic trends, informing our advocacy campaigns and programmatic initiatives. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to evidence-based policy-making, advance social programmes, and make a tangible impact on the lives of millions of people across the continent.
What we offer
- A hybrid work model – up to two days of remote work per week.
- The opportunity to join a dynamic and international team.
- An opportunity for professional growth in a non-profit setting.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct literature reviews, data collection, and analysis on topics related to food insecurity, poverty, nutrition, and sustainable food systems.
- Assist in the design and implementation of research projects, including surveys, interviews, and focus groups, to gather insights from Food Bank partners, stakeholders, and individuals experiencing food insecurity.
- Compile and maintain databases of relevant statistics, reports, and case studies, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and accessibility for internal and external stakeholders.
- Collaborate with colleagues across departments, including advocacy, communications, and programmes, to integrate research findings into strategic planning, policy development, and programme evaluation.
- Support the preparation of research briefs, reports, presentations, and other materials for internal use, external stakeholders, and public dissemination.
- Stay informed about emerging trends, best practices, and innovations in the fields of food security, nutrition, and social welfare, and share relevant information with colleagues and partners.
- Assist in organising conferences, workshops, and other events to facilitate knowledge sharing, networking, and collaboration among stakeholders in the food banking and anti-hunger community.
Profile
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in social sciences, public health, economics, or a related field.
- Strong research skills, including experience with quantitative and qualitative methods, data analysis software (e.g. PowerBI, IBM SPSS, MATLAB, SAS/STAT or Stata) and literature review techniques.
- Knowledge of issues related to food insecurity, food systems transformation, poverty, nutrition, and sustainable development, with a commitment to social justice and equity.
- Understanding of the importance of sustainable food systems and its impact on the environment and for vulnerable communities.
- Excellent understanding of EU processes, existing policy trends and working mechanisms.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information in a clear, concise, and compelling manner.
- Detail-oriented and organised, with the ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritise deadlines, and work independently or collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency in English; additional language skills, especially French or German, are an asset.
- Previous experience or familiarity with the non-profit sector, advocacy campaigns, or international organisations is desirable but not required.
- Experience with research projects, project management and IT systems.
Additional Requirements
- Willingness to occasionally travel abroad.
- Only candidates who possess a valid work permit for Belgium are eligible for consideration.
Diversity and inclusion at FEBA
At FEBA, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and collaborative work environment where everyone is valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique talents and perspectives. We believe that research plays a critical role in informing evidence-based policy-making and driving positive social change. If you are passionate about conducting research that makes a difference and want to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to ending hunger in Europe, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.
How to apply
Interested candidates are invited to send their CV (up to 2 pages) and cover letter (1 page) in PDF format to recruitment@eurofoodbank.org, with the subject line ‘Research Officer Application’. Please add in the text of the email the website or platform where you have found this vacancy.
The application deadline is 22 April 2025.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
