Introduction
In 2026, Oxfam International is recruiting skilled research professionals to join its global efforts to tackle poverty, inequality, climate injustice, and humanitarian crises. As a leading international NGO with programmes in over 70 countries, Oxfam’s research roles contribute to evidence-based advocacy, policy influence, and strategic programme design.
These opportunities are ideal for researchers passionate about global development, social justice, and policy impact and who want to work within a mission-driven organization that amplifies the voices of marginalized communities.
This article is published by an independent job-opportunity and career information platform for informational purposes only. It is not affiliated with Oxfam International and does not participate in recruitment, shortlisting, or selection decisions. All applications must be submitted through official Oxfam careers channels.
Below is a detailed, 3,000-word guide to Oxfam Research Jobs 2026 — including roles, responsibilities, qualifications, application tips, and career insights.
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About Oxfam International
Oxfam International is a global network of independent organizations working together to end poverty, inequality, and injustice. Established in 1942, Oxfam has grown into one of the most respected and influential NGOs worldwide, implementing programmes in areas such as:
- Humanitarian response and crisis recovery
- Gender justice and women’s rights
- Economic justice and fair taxation
- Climate change adaptation and resilience
- Sustainable agriculture and food systems
- Policy advocacy and social transformation
Oxfam’s work is grounded in rigorous research, participatory approaches, and strategic advocacy that influences global policy debates and drives systemic change.
Research teams at Oxfam work across multi-disciplinary thematic areas, producing robust evidence that guides programme design, informs advocacy campaigns, and strengthens partnerships with governments, UN agencies, and civil society organizations.
Why Oxfam Research Jobs Matter
Research at Oxfam is not academic exercise — it is a strategic lever for impact. High-quality research helps:
- Shape global policy debates on inequality, climate, and gender justice
- Inform evidence-based interventions in communities affected by poverty and crisis
- Support advocacy campaigns at the national, regional, and global levels
- Track progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Strengthen accountability of governments and international institutions
Working as a researcher at Oxfam means being part of a team that doesn’t just analyze data — it uses evidence to drive change.
Overview of Oxfam Research Jobs (2026)
Oxfam often advertises research roles under different titles and functions, including:
- Research Officer / Research Analyst
- Senior Researcher / Thematic Specialist
- Policy Research and Advocacy Advisor
- Data and Evidence Specialist
- Economics and Social Justice Researcher
These roles can be based in field offices, regional hubs, or global headquarters, and some may offer remote or hybrid work options depending on organizational needs.
Below is an expanded look at the most common research roles likely to be advertised in 2026.
1. Research Officer / Research Analyst
Role Summary
Research Officers or Analysts support the design, implementation, and dissemination of research projects. They work under the guidance of senior researchers, contributing to evidence generation and analytical outputs that influence programme and policy.
Typical Responsibilities
- Conducting field and desk research
- Collecting and analyzing quantitative and qualitative data
- Drafting research reports, policy briefs, technical notes
- Supporting methodological design and data tools
- Engaging with stakeholders for data collection and validation
- Presenting findings to internal and external audiences
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Sciences, Economics, Public Policy, Development Studies, or related fields
- Experience in research, data analysis, or programme support
- Proficiency in statistical software (e.g., SPSS, Stata, R) is an asset
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
💰 USD 60,000 – $85,000 per year
(Varies by duty station, experience, and contract type)
2. Senior Researcher / Thematic Specialist
Role Summary
Senior Researchers lead research initiatives on specific themes such as climate justice, economic inequality, gender, or humanitarian response. These positions require advanced analytical skills and the ability to translate evidence into strategic recommendations.
Typical Responsibilities
- Lead the design and execution of major research projects
- Manage research teams and external consultants
- Develop high-quality evidence products for global audiences
- Contribute to strategy and policy development
- Engage with external partners and networks
Qualifications
- Advanced degree (Master’s/PhD) in relevant disciplines
- 7+ years of experience in research or programmatic policy roles
- Demonstrated leadership on research initiatives
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
💰 USD 90,000 – $130,000 per year
3. Policy Research & Advocacy Advisor
Role Summary
This hybrid role blends research with advocacy strategy, translating evidence into policy influence. The advisor works closely with campaign teams to integrate research findings into advocacy plans and communications.
Typical Responsibilities
- Conduct research with a policy focus
- Support advocacy campaign design with evidence
- Prepare policy briefs and strategic communications
- Engage with governments, UN agencies, and partners
- Monitor policy developments and impact
Qualifications
- Master’s or higher in Public Policy, International Relations, or relevant areas
- Experience in research and policy engagement
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
💰 USD 95,000 – $140,000 per year
4. Data & Evidence Specialist
Role Summary
Specialists in data and evidence support Oxfam’s research quality by managing datasets, developing dashboards, and applying advanced analytics to social and economic indicators.
Typical Responsibilities
- Design data collection tools and systems
- Perform advanced statistical analysis
- Develop visualization tools and dashboards
- Support integration of big data and AI tools
- Provide training and capacity building
Qualifications
- Background in Data Science, Statistics, Economics, or similar
- Strong technical skills (e.g., Python, R, SQL)
- Experience in development data or impact measurement
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
💰 USD 80,000 – $110,000 per year
5. Economics & Social Justice Researcher
Role Summary
These positions focus on research at the intersection of economics, social policy, and social justice. Projects may cover topics such as taxation, inequality, labor markets, and social protection.
Typical Responsibilities
- Conduct economic analysis and modeling
- Produce policy relevant evidence on inequality and economic reforms
- Support engagement with economic policymakers
- Write reports and contribute to global research networks
Qualifications
- Background in Economics or Development Economics
- Experience with economic modeling and policy work
- Publication or research dissemination experience
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
💰 USD 85,000 – $125,000 per year
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Where These Jobs May Be Located
Oxfam research positions may be based in:
- Oxfam International Secretariat (often in Nairobi, Brussels, or Oxford)
- Regional Offices (Asia, Africa, Americas)
- Country Offices (field research and programme support)
- Remote (increasingly offered for thematic and analysis roles)
Salary and benefits vary by location due to cost-of-living and local market adjustments.
Qualifications Common to Oxfam Research Roles
Across research roles, Oxfam typically seeks candidates who demonstrate:
Academic Credentials
- Bachelor’s / Master’s or PhD (depending on level)
- Degrees in relevant fields such as development, economics, social sciences, public policy, or data analytics
Research & Analytical Skills
- Experience in qualitative and quantitative research
- Proficiency with analytical tools and software
- Ability to interpret complex data
Communication Skills
- Strong writing skills for reports and policy briefs
- Ability to explain evidence to non-technical audiences
- Presentation and stakeholder communication experience
Impact & Advocacy Orientation
- Understanding of development and humanitarian contexts
- Ability to connect research with advocacy goals
- Experience working with governments, NGOs, or international institutions
Internal Collaboration & External Partnerships
Oxfam researchers rarely work in isolation. They often collaborate closely with:
- Programme teams for evidence-based planning
- Advocacy units to support campaigns and global engagements
- Finance and monitoring teams for indicator tracking
- External research institutions and universities
- Civil society organizations and networks
Such collaboration enhances both the quality and reach of research outputs.
Why Work as a Researcher at Oxfam?
Global Impact
Your research informs programmes that support millions of people and shapes policy discussions at national and global levels.
Diverse Work Environment
Oxfam offers opportunities to work across cultures, regions, and thematic areas.
Professional Development
With opportunities for mentorship, training, and cross-departmental collaboration, Oxfam supports continuous learning.
Mission-Driven Culture
Oxfam fosters a values-based approach to work focused on equity, justice, and solidarity.
Application Tips & Insights
1. Tailor Your CV
Highlight research outputs, relevant methodologies, and evidence of impact.
2. Show Policy Relevance
Demonstrate how your research work contributed to real change, policy dialogue, or programme design.
3. Include Strong Communication Samples
Attach or reference writing samples that show clarity and analytical depth.
4. Network
Engage with Oxfam research events, webinars, and professional networks to increase visibility.
5. Prepare for Behavioral & Technical Interviews
Be ready to discuss past research challenges, data decisions, and stakeholder management.
Typical Recruitment Process
The recruitment process often includes:
- Online application and submission of documents
- Screening by HR and research leadership
- Technical or written assessment
- One or more interviews (technical & competency-based)
- Reference checks and offer
Timelines vary by office and role.
Additional Information
- Organization: Oxfam International
- Job Title: Research roles (various levels and tracks)
- Year: 2026
- Work Arrangement: In-office, remote, or hybrid (varies)
- Salary: Competitive ranges listed above
- Eligibility: Global applicants (role-dependent)
Oxfam is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including women and underrepresented groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Oxfam research roles remote?
Some thematic or analytic roles may be remote; others require placement in regional or country offices.
Do I need development experience?
Experience in research and relevant sectors is usually required, but exact requirements vary by level.
Are salaries negotiable?
Salary ranges depend on level and location but can be negotiated within organizational frameworks.
Is Oxfam a good long-term employer?
Yes. Many staff build long-term careers within Oxfam or transition to related roles in UN agencies or global NGOs.
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