Request for Proposals: Consultant for Scientific Publications

Evidence-based decision-making in sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) is critical for effective advocacy, as well as the design and implementation of policies and programs that are responsive to the diverse needs and contexts of diverse populations. Achieving this requires a strong focus on the generation, integration, and dissemination of high-quality, timely, and actionable evidence that can inform both practice and policy. To strengthen our evidence ecosystem, enhance knowledge translation, and expand the reach of our research, we seek to engage a qualified consultant with expertise in scientific writing and publication within the SRHR field.

The consultant would play a critical role in transforming technical research reports and study findings into high-quality, peer-reviewed manuscripts suitable for submission to reputable journals. This includes synthesizing complex data and insights into compelling narratives that align with journal standards and resonate diverse audiences. In addition, the consultant will lead and manage the full journal submission process, including manuscript formatting, responding to peer review comments, and coordinating revisions as needed.

Scope of Work

The consultant will be responsible for the following activities:

• Drafting high quality manuscripts based on the study reports, in line with scientific writing standards and as per the requirement and format of the peer-reviewed journals.
• Identifying appropriate peer-reviewed journals aligned with the subject matter of each manuscript.
• Formatting manuscripts according to the selected journals’ author guidelines.
• Incorporating feedback from co-authors, and/or technical reviewers.
• Submitting the finalized manuscripts to the selected journals using their submission platforms.
• Coordinating responses to peer-review feedback and revising manuscripts as needed.
• Maintaining detailed records of submission progress and communication with journals.

Deliverables 

• Five complete and high-quality manuscripts developed from existing study reports.
• Submitting the finalized manuscripts to the selected journals (in consultation with IPPF SAR) using their submission platforms following the proper author guidelines.
• Short summary report and a tracking log of all submissions, including journal names, submission dates, status, and correspondence.

Duration 

The consultancy will begin mid-September 2025 and conclude towards the end of December 2025.

Timeline

• First manuscript prepared and submitted to journal: By October 15, 2025
• Subsequent preparation and submissions of manuscripts: By December 15, 2025
• Summary report and tracking log: By December 31, 2025

Required Qualifications

• Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in demography, public health, social sciences, development studies, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in developing manuscripts from research or programmatic reports.
• Proven track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Excellent scientific writing and editing skills.
• Familiarity with academic journal submission systems and processes.
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
• Candidates who are open to working from the IPPF SAR office based in Delhi, at least once per week will be preferred.

All data, reports, and manuscripts developed during this consultancy remain the intellectual property of IPPF SAR. The consultant shall treat all materials as confidential and shall not use them for any purpose outside the scope of this assignment.

The total duration of the assignment is expected to be from mid-September-December 2025

The selection of the consultant will be based on the candidate’s relevant qualifications, demonstrated experience, and alignment with the scope of work.

To apply, interested candidates are requested to email [email protected] and copy [email protected] with the subject “Application for Consultant: Scientific Publication” no later than September 07, 2025, along with the following attachments-

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting relevant experience
• Two sample writings (Examples of previously authored/co-authored publications)
• Short proposal including approach, work plan, financial budget and timeline (not more than 6 pages)

The payment will be split into instalments according to the deliverables that will be agreed between the consultant and IPPF SAR during the contract signing stage.