On the Move (OTM), the international network specialising in information and advocacy on artistic and cultural mobility, is seeking eight (8) independent researchers to support the full update of its Cultural Mobility Funding Guide – Focus on Africa , last published in 2019.

The updated guide will map regular mobility funding schemes available at country, regional and international levels for incoming and outgoing mobility across the 54 countries of Africa .

The guide is intended to serve both as a practical information resource for artists and cultural professionals and as an advocacy instrument for policymakers and funders, including in relation to Article 16 of the 2005 UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions.

Each researcher will be responsible for one of eight geographic clusters.

Job Summary

Employer: on-the-move
Job Type: Contract
Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
Category: Research
Salary: €2,050 lump-sum fee (for Southern Africa II cluster including Zimbabwe)
Closing Date: 2026-10-16

Key Responsibilities

Identifying and documenting regular mobility-related funding schemes at country level, including ministries, arts councils, cities, festivals, residencies, private-sector funders and philanthropic foundations.
Identifying relevant funding schemes provided by international and regional bodies, including UNESCO, that can benefit artists, cultural professionals and organisations in the assigned cluster.
Listing additional resources, including information platforms, guides and tools covering administrative and visa-related issues, as well as support organisations for at-risk and displaced artists and intra-mobility where relevant.
Identifying schemes relevant to Article 16 of the 2005 UNESCO Convention.
Flagging funding schemes that support gender equality, environmental sustainability, access costs and digital formats of mobility.
Completing OTM’s structured research template within the shared digital workspace.
Participating in monthly online coordination meetings and providing written progress updates.
Contributing a concise contextual note on trends and gaps in the assigned cluster, covering policies, measures supporting mobility, structural gaps and barriers, recent positive developments and potential financial and non-financial solutions.

Requirements

Be based on the African continent, ideally within or with demonstrated knowledge of the assigned cluster and its cultural ecosystem, institutional landscape, mobility context and funding environment.
Have prior experience in research, mapping, data collection, documentation or comparable assignments, preferably within cultural and creative sectors, cultural policy, international mobility, funding or related fields.
Have experience conducting multi-source and/or multi-country research.
Demonstrate the ability to identify, assess, cross-check and reference information from authoritative sources.
Have strong written and spoken English skills.
French-speaking researchers are particularly sought after, especially for Francophone clusters.
Have working knowledge of French, Arabic, Portuguese and/or relevant national or regional languages where required by the assigned cluster.
Demonstrate strong organisational skills and the ability to work independently, follow a common research methodology, manage a defined workload and meet strict deadlines.
Be comfortable working remotely and using shared online tools, including Word-based research templates, shared documents and Zoom.
Have an existing track record of working directly with artists, cultural professionals, cultural organisations or mobility initiatives, including at policy level, which will be an asset.
Be available throughout the full research period from mid-November 2026 to March 2027 , including coordination meetings, review rounds and incorporation of feedback.

Salary

€2,050 lump-sum fee (for Southern Africa II cluster including Zimbabwe)

How to Apply

To apply, please visit: form.jotform.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications do I need to become an independent researcher for cultural mobility funding guides in Zimbabwe?

Most employers require a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Arts Management, Cultural Studies, Development Studies, or a related social science field. A Master's degree or demonstrated experience in grant writing, arts administration, or research is highly advantageous. Proficiency in English and at least one other major African language is often preferred given the regional focus.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of this role?

Daily tasks include conducting desk research on funding opportunities, mapping cultural mobility schemes across Africa, interviewing artists and cultural operators, and compiling structured data for guide publications. Researchers also verify information with embassies, arts councils, and funding bodies. Regular reporting to project coordinators and meeting tight deadlines are standard expectations.

How does local work culture in Zimbabwe affect independent research contracts?

Zimbabwean employers typically value punctuality, formal communication hierarchies, and detailed written deliverables even in freelance arrangements. Contracts may be verbal initially but insist on written agreements specifying payment terms, as delays are common. Building trust through personal networks and professional references remains crucial for securing repeat work.

What career progression paths exist for researchers in Zimbabwe's cultural sector?

Successful independent researchers often transition into full-time roles with international NGOs, arts foundations, or academic institutions. Others establish consultancy firms serving regional cultural organisations or move into policy advisory positions with government ministries. Publishing research and presenting at forums like the Harare International Festival of the Arts strengthens professional visibility.

What benefits should I negotiate as an independent contractor for this role?

Independent contracts rarely include standard employment benefits, so negotiate explicitly for project-related travel reimbursement, data costs, and professional indemnity coverage where applicable. Request clarity on payment schedules, as 30-90 day payment delays are common in Zimbabwe. Some international funders may offer health insurance for contract durations, but this varies by employer.

How do I apply and what do Zimbabwean employers look for in applications?

Submit a concise CV highlighting previous research outputs, grant writing experience, and knowledge of African cultural networks, accompanied by a tailored cover letter and writing sample. Employers prioritise demonstrated ability to work remotely with minimal supervision, existing contacts in the arts sector, and familiarity with databases or reference management tools. Follow up politely after two weeks if no response, as administrative capacity constraints are common.