Research Consultancy
Harm Reduction International (HRI) is seeking an experienced consultant to research, write, and complete the ‘Innovations’ chapter for the 10th edition of the Global State of Harm Reduction report. This chapter will examine new and emerging approaches to harm reduction, including service models, technologies, community- and peer-led efforts, policy and regulatory changes, and funding mechanisms. It will highlight trends across regions, bring attention to promising practices that are not yet well known, and explore what helps or limits innovation in harm reduction.
About HRI
HRI is is an international NGO which uses data and advocacy to promote harm reduction and drug policy reform.
We envision a world in which drug policies uphold dignity, health, and rights. We use data and advocacy to promote harm reduction and drug policy reform, and show how rights-based, evidence-informed responses to drugs contribute to healthier, safer societies, and why investing in harm reduction makes sense.
ABOUT GHSR
The Global State of Harm Reduction (GSHR) is HRI’s flagship publication, providing comprehensive analysis of harm reduction and drug policy across the world. The GSHR 2026 is the 10th edition of this report. In addition to nine regional chapters, the report includes thematic chapters examining cross-cutting harm reduction topics from a global perspective.
The ‘Innovations’ chapter is a new addition to the 10th edition, reflecting the rapid evolution of harm reduction practice in response to changing drug markets, technological advances, shifting policy environments, and persistent funding constraints.
Task
The consultant will research, write, and complete the Innovations chapter for the 10th edition of the GSHR, aiming for about 3,000 words. This chapter will examine new and emerging approaches to harm reduction, including service models, technologies, community- and peer-led efforts, policy and regulatory changes, and funding mechanisms. It will highlight trends across regions, bring attention to promising practices that are not yet well known, and explore what helps or limits innovation in harm reduction.
The work will draw on two complementary evidence streams: desk-based research of academic literature, policy documents, and institutional reports; and analysis of primary data gathered through the GSHR 2026 global survey.
The desk-based research phase will cover innovations including, but not limited to: emerging service models and technologies such as drug checking innovations (fentanyl and nitazenes test strips), mobile app-based services, digital health technologies, vending machines for sterile equipment, and new formulations of established treatments and medicines (including long-acting OAT, long-acting PrEP and ART, and low dead-space syringes); community-led and peer-driven innovations developed in response to gaps in formal services; policy, legal, and regulatory innovations enabling new harm reduction approaches or expanding access; and innovative financing models introduced or piloted in response to funding constraints.
The consultant will be expected to participate in a kick-off call with the HRI team, conduct and complete the literature review, analyse relevant survey data, draft the chapter in accordance with HRI’s editorial framework, and respond to internal and external peer review rounds.
Deliverables
Deliverable Deadline Completion of desk-based literature and policy review31st July 2026Completion of survey data analysis31st August 2026Shortlist of key innovations with a short synopsis on each7th September 2026First draft — thematic chapter16th September 2026Revised draft — post internal review28th October 2026Revised draft — post external peer review18th November 2026Final draft — thematic chapter14th December 2026
The consultant should also be available for minor clarifications and revisions during the copy editing and design phase (January–February 2027).
Timeline and terms
This is a remote, freelance consultancy. The assignment is expected to take about 13-16 days of work, spread across June 2026 – February 2027.
The available fee is 3750 GBP. Payment will be made in one instalment upon submission of the final deliverable.
Essential Experience and Skills
The ideal candidate will have:
- An advanced degree in public health, global health, public policy, clinical sciences, science and technology studies, or a field directly related to harm reduction, drug policy, or health innovation
- A minimum of five years of professional experience in harm reduction, drug policy, or related public health disciplines, with demonstrable engagement with emerging or innovative approaches to service delivery, policy and financing
- Demonstrated expertise in research, analysis, and academic or policy writing, including experience in analysing qualitative survey data
- Strong, up-to-date knowledge of harm reduction interventions, evidence-informed approaches to drug policy, and the global harm reduction funding landscape
- Excellent written English and the ability to communicate complex public health concepts with clarity and rigour
- Previous experience contributing to global harm reduction, public health, or human rights publications is an advantage
To apply
To apply, please send a cover letter and CV to hiring@hri.global by midnight BST on 7th June 2026.
ANTI-RACIST PLEDGE
HRI recognises the racist, colonial, and capitalist structures that determine the distribution of wealth and power globally, and the distinct relationship between racism, colonialism, global health, and international drug control. We are committed to being anti-racist.
anti-racist pledge
We encourage applications from all qualified candidates, including people who use drugs and people living with HIV.
We are committed to being actively anti-racist.
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