JOB DETAILS:
Position: Media Research Assistant
Location: Remote
Duration: 2 Weeks
Reporting to: Project Lead Consultant

1.0 Background
Brand Power Consulting Ltd. is a specialized consultancy firm focused on environmental communication, public relations, and environmental and sustainability consulting. Founded by a team of experienced professionals who have previously worked with regional and international organizations in environment and sustainability, the firm supports organizations to adopt socially responsible and environmentally sustainable practices.

Science journalism is important in bridging the gap between scientific research and public understanding. In Africa, Science Journalism faces unique challenges ranging from limited capacity among journalists to institutional and systemic constraints.

Brand Power Consulting Ltd is conducting a study on science journalism in Africa, on behalf of our client, and would like to hire a media research assistant to support the research team in undertaking the study. The Media Research Assistant will be involved in gathering, analyzing, and synthesizing data to inform strategies for enhancing science journalism in Africa. The research will focus on Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, and Zambia.

2.0 Reporting Structure
The Media Research Assistant will report directly to the Project Lead Consultant.

3. Scope of Work
The Media Research Assistant will be involved in all stages of data collection and analysis. Specific tasks include:

3.1 Data Collection
Assist in scheduling and conducting online interviews (Zoom/Google Meet) with approximately 20-32 key informants (5-8 per country). This involves:
• Identifying and contacting potential interviewees based on provided lists and purposive/snowball sampling techniques.
• Sending interview invitations and reminders.
• Conducting interviews using a semi-structured interview guide (provided).
• Recording interviews (with consent) and taking detailed notes.

• Transcribing interviews (at least a sample for quality control and familiarization with the data).

• Support the administration of an online survey (Google Forms) to at least 100 science journalists (25 per country). This includes:
• Assisting in pre-testing the survey instrument.
• Distributing the survey through email to professional networks and associations.
• Monitoring survey responses and ensuring the target sample size is met.
• Downloading and organizing survey data for analysis.
• Contribute to the desk research component by:
• Assisting in the literature review of existing media mapping studies, reports from organizations like UNESCO and the World Bank, and policy documents related to media regulations and science communication in the selected countries.
• Gathering information on journalism school curricula in the selected countries.

• Compiling and organizing relevant research materials.
3.2 Data Analysis
• Assist in coding and analyzing qualitative data from interviews, identifying key themes, patterns, and trends.
• Assist in basic data cleaning and descriptive statistical analysis of survey data (frequencies, percentages, means). This may involve using spreadsheet software (e.g., Excel, Google Sheets).
• Support the integration of findings from interviews, surveys, and desk research.
3.3 Report Preparation
• Assist in preparing tables, charts, and graphs to visualize data findings.
• Contribute to the overall report writing process by summarizing key findings and insights from the data analysis.

4. Deliverables
• Completed interview transcripts (a sample, if time permits).
• Organized survey data.
• Summary of findings from desk research.
• Contribution to the final research report (tables, charts, summaries of key findings).

5. Timeline
The assignment is for two weeks, with a clearly defined schedule of tasks and deliverables to be agreed upon with the Project Lead Consultant.

6. Compensation
Compensation details (rate, payment schedule) will be outlined in a separate agreement.

7. Communication
Regular communication with the Project Lead Consultant is crucial to ensure progress and address any questions or challenges.

8.0 Qualifications and Experience
The ideal candidate should possess:
• A degree in journalism, mass communication, media studies, statistics, economics, or related fields. A postgraduate qualification in science communication or media research is an advantage.
• Proven experience in media research, particularly in the fields of journalism, communication, or science.
• Strong knowledge of the African media landscape and an understanding of science communication.
• Proficiency in research methods, including survey design, data collection, and analysis.
• Excellent writing and analytical skills, with experience in report writing and documentation.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and deliver high-quality outputs within tight deadlines.

9.0 Application Process
Interested candidates should submit:
• A detailed CV highlighting relevant experience.
• A cover letter explaining their suitability for the role.
• Samples of previous research work or publications (if available).