Call for Proposals: Elrha Open Access and Publications Policy - Scoping and Development
We are seeking a consultant to evaluate the open access and scholarly publishing landscape and write a report providing recommendations for Elrha's future Open Access and Publications Policy.
Job details
Overview
As part of our evolution towards a new programmatic approach for humanitarian research and innovation, and building on lessons learned over both our programmes, Elrha is initiating the development of a comprehensive open access and publications policy to align with evolving global standards and ethical obligations in humanitarian research.
This project responds to rising publication costs, increasing emphasis on rapid and equitable access to research (considering the needs of humanitarian evidence users), and opportunities for Elrha to improve our current practices, including producing clearer guidance for grantees on article processing charges (APCs), data sharing, and preprint publications.
The initiative aims to support transparency, equity, and timely dissemination of evidence, particularly for humanitarian actors and researchers in the global South, by scoping best practices and current initiatives and opportunities for implementing open and transparent publications, and producing a robust policy tailored for Elrha’s adoption with actionable recommendations for future implementation.
Objective
By the end of the consultancy, Elrha will have a report with recommendations to inform a robust, equitable, and forward-looking open access and publications policy. The policy will support rapid and ethical dissemination of research on our programmes and make best use of Elrha’s resources; align with global best practices; and meet the needs of humanitarian actors and researchers, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
There are three objectives for the consultancy:
- To review current open access and scholarly publishing trends and assess Elrha’s needs (engaging key internal and external stakeholders), aligned with strategic goals and ethical commitments.
- To identify and recommend best practices for rapid and ethical data sharing, equitable publishing, and open science initiatives.
- To produce a comprehensive report with clear guidance on a proposed policy including preprints, APCs, data repositories, with a supporting set of internal recommendations regarding specific initiatives or partnerships that Elrha could consider aligning itself with. The report should make recommendations to maximise transparency, consistency, and visibility of Elrha-funded research outputs.
Timeline
Deadline for proposals: 17:00 GMT on Friday 9 January 2026
Project start: 26 January 2026
Final deliverables: 4 March 2026
Only service providers with availability to meet this timeframe should consider participating in this tender.
How to apply
Full application details and submission instructions are available in the Call for Proposals.
Interested service providers should submit a Proposal following the guidance included in the Call for Proposals.
Documents you require are:
Appendix 1: Elrha Contract Terms
Appendix 2: Elrha Incident Prevention and Management Policy
Deadline: Proposals must be submitted by 17:00 GMT on Friday 9 January 2026
Please submit the your offer to deliver the Services and CV (the ‘Proposal’), to Cordelia Lonsdale as per the following instructions:
- Email address: c.lonsdale@[email protected], with [email protected] in copy
- Subject line: Proposal to ToR – Publications Policy Consultancy
- Signed with the name and title of the person making the submission
Submissions emailed to any other Elrha email address will not be considered. Submissions not following the ‘subject line’ instructions might not be considered.
About Elrha
Elrha is a global organisation that finds solutions to complex humanitarian problems through research and innovation. We fund and support projects that go on to shape the way in which people across the world are supported during a crisis. We’re an established and respected part of the humanitarian community, working closely and meaningfully with our fellow networks and actors to make change happen.
Read our strategy: Shaping the future: our strategy for research and innovation in humanitarian response 2023 – 2040. It sets out how we’ll work with our community to realise its potential in humanitarian response, and how we’ll capture the real change and improvements to the lives of people affected by crisis.
Commitment to diversity and inclusion
At Elrha, we view diversity as a strength and reflect this in our hiring practices and culture. A diverse workforce helps us tackle the complex challenges of the humanitarian sector.
We strive to create an inclusive environment where all team members feel valued and empowered. Our initiatives promote equality and ensure that everyone has a voice in shaping our organization and the communities we serve.
What do we do?
Elrha is dedicated to improving humanitarian outcomes by funding innovative projects and studies worldwide.
We focus on critical areas such as health, education, and emergency response to address the evolving needs of vulnerable populations. Through our strategic partnerships and rigorous research, we aim to drive impactful change and enhance the effectiveness of humanitarian efforts.
Why Work for Us?
At Elrha, we foster a collaborative and inclusive culture that empowers our team to create meaningful impact in the humanitarian sector.
Our commitment to diversity, innovation, and professional development ensures that everyone has a voice and the opportunity to grow. Join us in our mission to drive positive change!
Meet our team
Our dedicated staff and governance groups are at the heart of everything we do. Our team, trustees, and advisers, join us from diverse backgrounds, bringing unique expertise and experience to our work to find solutions to complex humanitarian problems.
