Results for Development (R4D) is inviting submissions from experienced researchers for a Lead Researcher – Urban Development and Innovation consultancy. The selected consultant will lead a six-month pilot study examining 15–20 grassroots urban innovations across African cities, working collaboratively with the innovators to produce research grounded in local experience and practice.
The opportunity is suitable for a researcher with expertise in urban development, innovation and research leadership who can support locally driven approaches to addressing urban challenges. The position is remote and involves up to 40 days of work.
Application deadline: 27 October 2026.
About Results for Development
Results for Development is an international development organisation that designs and leads global and regional initiatives to strengthen systems and support locally led results. Its work connects local leaders and their partners to advance solutions across development sectors.
Through this consultancy, R4D seeks to investigate grassroots urban innovations in African cities. The pilot study will be co-produced with the innovators, placing their experiences and perspectives at the centre of the research process.
Overview of the Consultancy
The Lead Researcher will oversee a six-month pilot study focused on 15–20 grassroots urban innovations. The research will explore initiatives developed at community level to respond to urban challenges in African cities.
The assignment emphasises collaboration with the innovators themselves. This co-production approach is intended to ensure that the research reflects local knowledge and the realities of the initiatives being studied.
The selected consultant will need to provide research leadership and coordinate the study within the consultancy’s defined scope of up to 40 working days.
Key Responsibilities
Based on the published opportunity summary, the principal responsibility is to lead the pilot study of grassroots urban innovations across African cities.
The assignment involves:
- Leading research into 15–20 grassroots urban innovations.
- Working collaboratively with innovators to co-produce the research.
- Applying relevant expertise in urban development and innovation.
- Contributing research leadership throughout the six-month pilot study.
The full Request for Proposal should be consulted for the detailed scope of work, research methodology, deliverables, evaluation criteria and any additional responsibilities.
Eligibility and Ideal Candidate Profile
R4D identifies experienced researchers in urban development and innovation as the intended candidate profile.
Applicants should be prepared to demonstrate relevant research expertise and the capacity to lead a collaborative study involving grassroots initiatives in African cities.
The published summary does not specify mandatory academic qualifications, a minimum number of years of experience, language requirements or particular country restrictions. Interested applicants should review the full Request for Proposal to confirm the detailed eligibility criteria.
Location, Duration and Workload
- Work arrangement: Remote.
- Geographic research focus: African cities.
- Study duration: Six-month pilot study.
- Scope: 15–20 grassroots urban innovations.
- Estimated workload: Up to 40 days.
The opportunity is structured as a consultancy rather than a conventional full-time employment position. The supplied announcement does not specify the consultancy fee, payment arrangements or exact start date.
Why This Opportunity Is Valuable
This consultancy offers an opportunity for an experienced researcher to contribute to evidence-building on grassroots innovation and urban development in Africa. By co-producing research with local innovators, the study places community experience at the centre of the research process.
For professionals working in urban studies, innovation research and international development, the assignment may provide an opportunity to contribute to locally grounded research and strengthen understanding of initiatives addressing urban challenges.
Application Requirements and Submission Process
Applications must be submitted through the official R4D business-opportunity submission form. Applicants are required to provide their contact information, business or contractor name, email address, how they learned about the opportunity, and whether they have previously been employed by R4D.
The form also requires applicants to upload their submission materials. Accepted file formats include PowerPoint, PDF, DOCX, XLSX and XLS, with a maximum file size of 20 MB.
Applicants should consult the full Request for Proposal to determine which technical and financial documents are required. The supplied webpage does not list the complete submission package or provide a specific consultancy budget.
Application deadline: 27 October 2026.
SUBMIT YOUR PROPOSAL THROUGH THE OFFICIAL R4D WEBSITE
Tips for Preparing a Strong Proposal
Applicants should ensure that their submission demonstrates relevant experience in urban development and innovation research, a clear approach to studying grassroots initiatives, and the ability to collaborate meaningfully with local innovators.
The proposal should follow the requirements in the full Request for Proposal, address the stated deliverables and explain how the research can be completed within the six-month study period and the maximum 40-day workload.
Candidates should also verify the required submission documents and allow sufficient time to upload their materials before the deadline.
