JOB POSTING – SENIOR RESEARCHER
P OSITION S UMMARY
Physicians for Human Rights (‘PHR’), is seeking highly qualified candidates for the position of
Senior Researcher. The Senior Researcher will be a key member of the research and
investigations team and will work to document and expose war crimes and mass atrocities. This
person will frequently conduct field investigations with doctors, forensic or public health experts.
This position monitors global human rights issues, participates in emergency field investigations,
cultivates networks of contacts among local and international stakeholders, writes reports and
communications materials, and conducts advocacy briefings. The candidate must have strong
field experience, a proven record of writing timely reports and extensive knowledge of human
rights and humanitarian law.
The Senior Researcher reports to the Director of Programs and is based in our New York City
headquarters. This position requires international travel.
R ESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE :
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Research, document, and expose mass atrocities and other grave violations of human rights in
target countries through the systematic collection and analysis of information from eyewitnesses, survivors, local and international organizations, media, government officials, and
other field sources.
Monitor global human rights issues and emerging conflicts and make informed
recommendations as appropriate for organizational engagement; contextualize rights
violations within the broader political, historical, and social environments in target countries.
Write timely, well-substantiated and compelling reports on human rights and humanitarian
rights violations. Write additional communications materials (e.g. briefing papers, opinion
pieces, correspondence with governments and intergovernmental agencies) stemming from
research findings.
Ensure that PHR’s research methods comport with the highest standards; ensure
confidentiality and informed consent; and safeguard research data and forensic evidence.
Build networks of local and international contacts in target countries.
Be able to work flexible hours and to respond to crises and urgent situations.
Travel internationally as required to conduct fact-finding investigations and engage in
advocacy.
Help implement and carry out other functions requested by the Director of Programs.
Q UALIFICATIONS :
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Advanced degree in international relations, public health, journalism, law, social sciences or
related field is desirable.
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Extensive research experience in international human rights or related work including
investigations, reporting and advocacy.
Ability to conduct interviews effectively and with sensitivity among a wide range of people,
including victims and witnesses.
Strong interpersonal skills with experience working collaboratively with both internal and
external stakeholders.
Excellent writing and editing skills and demonstrated ability to defend and explain complex
issues and translate information about them to broad audiences including senior officials and
intergovernmental bodies.
Strong initiative and follow-through with demonstrated ability to multi-task and work quickly
under pressure and short deadline.
Sound political judgment and familiarity with international human rights law, global advocacy,
and international justice mechanisms.
Ability to travel internationally and work in conflict zones is required.
Experience working and/or living outside of the U.S. is required.
A team-oriented person with a passion for human rights, excellent judgment, maturity,
creativity and flexibility.
HOW TO APPLY:
Please email a cover letter (with compensation requirements), and resume to
resumes@phrusa.org. Please include “Senior Researcher Ref PRO-15-001” in the subject line.
ABOUT PHYSICIANS FOR HUMAN RIGHTS:
Founded in 1986, Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) is an independent not-for-profit
organization that brings the disciplines of medicine, forensics, science and public health to the
documentation and analysis human rights violations. PHR conducts research and investigations
globally, and the integrity of PHR’s research and investigations allows its work with others to raise
awareness and advocate for change to prevent further violations and ensure access to an
effective remedy for those who have suffered. PHR is a co-recipient of the Nobel Prize for Peace.
PHR is poised for even greater growth and impact. As part of that strategy, we are very excited to
be recruiting committed activists with a passion for human rights. Our headquarters are located
in New York City, and we maintain offices in Washington, DC and in Boston.
For more information about PHR, please visit our website at www.physiciansforhumanrights.org.
Physicians for Human Rights is an equal opportunity employer committed to inclusive hiring
and dedicated to diversity in its work and staff.