Individual Consultant for Systematic review synthesis

Terms of Reference

Systematic review 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 follows 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 early career researcher who can work together with IFPRI researchers to support this work.  Our research has 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. (i) Contribute to writing the report based on the activities already completed by the IFPRI team (ii) Contribute to a methodology-focussed paper of publishable quality outlining the use of AI in the systematic review. For these three tasks, the consultant is expected to provide inputs and assist the IFPRI team of researchers.

These tasks must be completed within the time frame of the appointment. The appointment is expected to run from October 10, 2026 to October 31, 2026. The effort level is for approximately 15 days.

IV. Deliverables

·       Draft paper on methodology

V. Required qualifications and experience

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

·       Demonstrated experience with the use of AI (ChatGPT, Claude or Elicit, for example) in synthesizing literature

·       Demonstrated ability to write papers of publishable quality independently.

·       Demonstrated ability to lead research independently with minimal guidance in the time frame given.

·       Demonstrated exposure to or experience working on natural farming in India

VI. Preferred qualifications

·       Prior experience working with international organizations such as IFPRI.

Application: Please submit 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 based on available budget and aligned with industry rates for post-doctoral researchers in India.

Deadline: October 8, 2026