Terms of Reference

Evidence synthesis

I. Background

With the support of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is currently undertaking a review of evidence on the impacts of an innovative program on natural farming in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. The review will follow closely PRISMA protocols (that specify screening methods, criteria for inclusion/exclusion, data extraction methods, synthesis approach, etc.) to map evidence of the impact of natural farming on diverse aspects such as nutrition and health, incomes, productivity, environmental and social impacts.

II. Objective

IFPRI is currently looking for an experienced consultant who can work together with IFPRI researchers to support this work. Our research will have two components. The first is to identify related literature, screen them for relevance according to pre-determined criteria and synthesize these. The second is to generate a gap map, proposing priority research questions for the future, and based on the findings looking at implications for scaling up (other states in India as well as other countries).

III. Scope of Work

To fulfill this task the consultant is expected to carry out the following activities, in collaboration with IFPRI:

· Develop an outline for the review of literature

· Develop an outline for the evidence gap map

· Identify and screen the literature for review following the PRISMA protocols.

For these three tasks, the consultant is expected to provide inputs and assist the IFPRI team of researchers.

The consultant is expected to work independently on the following tasks

· Synthesize studies that have been selected collaboratively for review into a draft report that can be incorporated into the review.

These tasks must be completed within the time frame of the appointment. The appointment is expected to run from March 15, 2026 to July 31, 2026. The effort level is for approximately 40 days.

IV. Deliverables

· Draft synthesis review

V. Required qualifications and experience

· A PhD degree or Masters degree in Agricultural Economics, Agribusiness or related disciplines.

· Demonstrated experience with synthesizing literature and ability to write papers of publishable quality independently.

· Demonstrated ability to lead research independently with minimal guidance.

· Demonstrated ability of managing deliverables in the timeframe given.

· Proficiency in commonly used Word processing and spreadsheet software, to ensure that the plans, transcripts, translations etc. are exchanged in electronic formats agreed upon by IFPRI.

VI. Preferred qualifications

· Prior experience working in India on issues relating to agriculture

· Prior experience working with international organizations

· Peer reviewed publications on related themes.

Application: Please submit (1) two samples of previous qualitative studies (reports/briefs etc) that demonstrate your ability to synthesize literature and communicate these to a broader multidisciplinary audience, (2) a copy of your updated CV. Materials should be submitted in English. No cover letter is required.

No work permit required for India (remote work)

Remuneration will be commensurate with experience