Terms of Reference for Researcher to Prepare Training
Materials on Ambiguous Loss

BACKGROUND

Under the project “Empowering Survivors and Victims’ Families in Syria to Pursue Justice,” funded by the European Union, SCM, Massar, and Taafi seek a researcher to develop a training curriculum on ambiguous loss. The Researcher will focus on conducting an in-depth review of ambiguous loss in Syria, identifying culturally relevant best practices based on the books “The Myth of Closure” and “Loss, Trauma, and

ELIGIBILITY

Both individual consultants and consulting groups are encouraged to apply to conduct the research, prepare the training materials, and collaborate with the Trainer(s) for effective curriculum development. Applications from consulting groups should present a qualified team to fulfil the research and content preparation requirements with the appropriate expertise and understanding of the Syrian context.Resilience: Therapeutic Work with Ambiguous Loss.”

Note: Consulting groups with the capability to undertake both research preparation and training delivery are encouraged to apply jointly, as this integration could enhance the coherence and impact of the final training materials.

PURPOSE OF THE ASSIGNMENT

The Researcher’s role is to conduct comprehensive research and contextual analysis on ambiguous loss in Arabic as it applies to the Syrian experience, transforming theoretical knowledge from the designated resources into a framework suited for training purposes.

SCOPE OF WORK

The Researcher will:

• Conduct Background Research on ambiguous loss in Syria, focusing on cultural and situational factors relevant to families of victims.
• Synthesise Key Concepts from the reference books, adapting them to a practical, contextually sensitive training framework.
• Prepare Training Content that simplifies and illustrates psychological theories, ensuring accessibility and relatability for Arabic-speaking audiences.

KEY DELIVERABLES

• Research Report on ambiguous loss specific to the Syrian context, highlighting relevant cultural dynamics and identifying best practices for resilience.
• Training Content Outline developed in collaboration with the Trainer, detailing the structured sequence of topics and skills to be addressed.
• Comprehensive Analysis of Key Psychological Concepts from the book references, focusing on practical applications and cultural adaptations.

METHODOLOGY

• Conduct a literature review and case study analysis specific to ambiguous loss in Syria.
• Collaborate with the Trainer and project partners (SCM, Massar Families, Taafi) to ensure alignment of content with training objectives.
• Develop visuals, case studies, and interactive exercises that will enhance comprehension of the material.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Collaborate with the Trainer and other partners to provide culturally relevant, practical content for the training.
• Analyse and Simplify Complex Theories from the books into an accessible and engaging format for the target audience.
• Prepare Supporting Training Materials such as case studies and exercises that reflect real-life scenarios in the Syrian context.
• Provide Mechanisms for Trainer Feedback to refine materials as needed for the final training package.

SKILLS/COMPETENCIES

• Advanced degree in psychology, sociology, or related field with experience in psychological research.
• Proven research experience in conflict or post-conflict areas, especially related to trauma and resilience.
• Strong analytical skills to contextualise ambiguous loss theories for a Syrian audience.
• Proficiency in Arabic and English, with a demonstrated ability to simplify complex concepts for training materials.

PROPOSED PAYMENT SCHEDULE

The payment for the Researcher will be released in three instalments, linked to key deliverables:

1. First Instalment: Upon submission and approval of the initial research report on ambiguous loss in Syria, which includes a contextual analysis and an outline of key findings (approximately 40% of the total fee).
2. Second Instalment: After completion and delivery of the full training content outline, including simplified concepts, case studies, and interactive materials for participant engagement (approximately 40% of the total fee).
3. Third Instalment: Upon submission of the finalised training content and supplementary materials, following any revisions based on feedback from SCM, Massar Families, and Taafi (approximately 20% of the total fee).

TENDER PROCEDURE:

How to apply

Tenders shall be submitted by email only (with attachments) to the email address in the table below, with the following reference in the subject:  Ambiguous Loss – Researcher  

We encourage you to send us your questions for any clarifications before submitting your proposed cost sheet and the contact information for two professional references. 

Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Deadline for submission of tenders/offers	2 December 2024 at 23:59 (Paris time)
Email for submission of tenders/offers	[email protected]
Email for questions	[email protected]  CCing:  [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Contract duration	2 Months
Expected starting date of execution	16-12-2024

Required supporting documents: 

For interested candidates, please send in the following: 

1. An updated CV/ CVs of the applicant/s

Applicants are also invited to submit comprehensive candidacies containing multiple individuals, upon provision of clear evidence which demonstrates  that the collective qualifications, experiences, and capabilities are relevant to different aspects of the tender and must be included in the same financial proposition.

2. Technical proposal

The technical proposal should include but not limited to the following information:

• A brief outline of recent experience and client references in carrying out assignments of similar nature (Max. 3 pages)
• Detailed description of how the consultant/firm understands and will respond to the ToR.

3. Financial proposal

The financial proposal must contain overall quotation in Euro for all the services to be provided and must contain the following:

• Summary of the total costs for the services proposed.
• Any taxes if applicable

Selection Process

The selection criteria for the Researcher position will be based on the following guidelines:

• Financial Assessment: 20% of the overall assessment.
• Technical Assessment: 80% of the overall assessment, distributed as follows:
  • Context Knowledge: Demonstrated familiarity with the Syrian context and experience in conducting research related to ambiguous loss, trauma, or psychological resilience. (20%)
  • Research Expertise: Depth of experience and knowledge in research methodologies relevant to the topics of ambiguous loss and resilience, particularly within conflict or post-conflict settings. (30%)
  • Content Development Skills: Proven ability to translate complex psychological concepts into accessible and culturally relevant training materials. (20%)
  • Proposal Assessment: Quality and relevance of the proposed approach for conducting the research, content preparation, and alignment with project objectives. (10%)