Research Analyst

Background/Job Purpose

The African School of Regulation (ASR), hosted by the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) in Accra, Ghana, strengthens energy regulation across Africa through applied research, training, policy dialogue and knowledge exchange. Its work draws on African regulatory experience and international best practices to support sustainable, reliable and affordable energy.

ASR delivers online, residential and hybrid programmes for regulators, policymakers and other energy stakeholders, covering power sector regulation, electricity tariff design, clean cooking and emerging energy issues. Its activities include tailored institutional training, leadership programmes for women in energy, technical events and the development of research and knowledge resources.

You may be the ideal candidate for this role if you thrive working within a team structure, sharing information and insights, engaging in ongoing intellectual exchange, contributing to applied research, designing and delivering of training and capacity-building programmes, and the organization of technical events.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Research and Knowledge Development

• Contribute to the development and implementation of applied research projects on energy policy and regulation in Africa, including research design, literature reviews, data collection and analysis.
• Support the preparation of research proposals, policy briefs, reports, working papers and other publications.
• Analyze regulatory developments, emerging challenges and international practices to inform ASR’s research and training activities.
• Develop and maintain ASR’s knowledge base, including position papers, case studies, research publications and educational materials.

Training and Capacity Building

• Support the identification of capacity-building needs and the design of training programmes relevant to African energy sector stakeholders.
• Identify and liaise with instructors, facilitators and subject-matter experts.
• Support the delivery of online, in-person and hybrid training programmes, working closely with the administrative and communications teams.
• Assist in collecting and analysing participant feedback and learning outcomes to improve programme quality and relevance.

Technical Events and Stakeholder Engagement

• Contribute to the planning and delivery of workshops, webinars, policy dialogues, conferences and other knowledge-sharing events.
• Support the development of concept notes, agendas, speaker briefs, presentations and event reports.
• Identify and engage speakers, partners and relevant stakeholders in coordination with the responsible technical leads.
• Undertake other relevant duties assigned by the Heads of Research and Training.

Desired Qualifications, Competencies and Experience

Essential:

• A Master’s degree in Economics, Engineering, Law, Energy Policy, Public Policy or a related discipline.
• An understanding of energy policy and regulation in Africa, demonstrated through research and/or professional experience.
• Relevant experience in research, training, capacity building or technical programme support, preferably in African countries or other emerging markets.
• Strong analytical, writing and communication skills, including the ability to explain technical concepts clearly to diverse audiences.
• Good organisational and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work in multidisciplinary and international teams and meet deadlines.
• Excellent written and communication skills.

Desirable:

• Experience in financial modelling, tariff analysis, energy modelling or the use of analytical tools relevant to energy regulation.
• Demonstrated teaching, training or facilitation skills.
• Experience supporting the design of capacity-building or training programmes, with experience in gender-focused programmes or initiatives supporting women.
• Experience using learning management systems (LMS) to manage course content, support learners and monitor participation and progress.

Languages:

• Excellent knowledge of English is required
• Working knowledge of French is an added advantage

Compensation

ASR/ACBF offers a competitive remuneration and benefits package commensurate with qualifications and relevant experience.

About the African Capacity Building Foundation

The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is the African Union’s specialized agency for capacity development. Since 1991, ACBF has empowered over 100,000 professionals across the public and private sectors, civil society, and academia, while building institutions in more than 40 member states. Through strategic partnerships and impactful programs, the Foundation builds human and institutional capacity and generates and disseminates knowledge to advance Africa’s sustainable development in line with Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

ACBF’s current strategic plan focuses on key impact areas such as Climate Change and Energy for productive use, Agribusiness and food sovereignty, trade as an engine for economic development, and Economic and Social Governance. The Foundation is headquartered in Harare, with regional offices in Accra and Nairobi and a Liaison Office at the African Union Commission in Addis Ababa.

About the African School of Regulation (ASR)

ASR is focused on building local capacity in energy regulation, advancing sound regulatory practices, and promoting a collaborative dialogue among regulators, policymakers, academics, and other energy stakeholders. Inspired by similar initiatives like the Florence School of Regulation, ASR is designed to help African countries build a sustainable energy sector. The ASR is currently being hosted by the ACBF in its regional office in Accra, Ghana.

For more information, visit the ASR website:

How to apply

Interested candidates should send their CV and cover letter to recruitment@africanschoolregulation.org, using “Research Analyst – ASR” as the email subject.

• Deadline for applications: 10 November 2026.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Qualified female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.