Rapid Evidence Review Consultant at IITA - International Institute of Tropical Agriculture

Role Overview

• The consultant will conduct a comprehensive review of IITA Food and Nutrition Sciences Laboratory’s contributions to addressing malnutrition and promoting food-based solutions across Africa. This would span key areas including work in food consumption and micronutrient surveys, biofortification research, nutrient analysis, food product development, food safety, and post-harvest processing. The review will synthesize achievements, identify research gaps, and recommend future directions to align with IITA’s broader agricultural research agenda.

Key Responsibilities

• Review and synthesize documentation of research outputs, technologies, and innovations related to food and nutrition sciences.
• Document key achievements, innovations, and contributions to malnutrition reduction and food system transformation.
• Identify research gaps and areas needing further exploration.
• Provide recommendations to strengthen IITA’s food and nutrition research agenda in alignment with institutional priorities.
• Liaise with IITA staff to gather necessary materials and insights.

Deliverable

• Comprehensive review manuscript detailing achievements, gaps, and future research directions.

Requirements

Qualifications & Skills

• Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in nutrition, food science, public health, agricultural sciences, or a related field.
• Proven experience in conducting and writing scientific reviews, preferably in food and nutrition or agricultural research.
• Familiarity with food systems, nutrition-sensitive agriculture, and global nutrition challenges.
• Strong analytical, synthesis, and writing skills with a track record of peer-reviewed publications or technical reports.
• Ability to work independently, manage timelines, and coordinate with multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent communication skills in English (written and verbal).
• Proficiency in using reference management and word processing tools (e.g., Zotero, EndNote, Covidence).

Preferred Attributes

• Attention to detail and commitment to high-quality outputs.
• Results-oriented, proactive, and adaptable to changing priorities.
• Demonstrated ability to translate complex scientific findings into actionable recommendations.
• Ability to deliver within tight timelines.