Sr. Design Researcher

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sr. Design Researcher Company: 17 Triggers Consulting Asia Co., Ltd. Location: Phnom Penh, Cambodia Job Type: Full-Time (FTE) Category: Human-Centered Design / Social Impact Research Date Posted: February 17, 2026 Experience Level: Experienced (7+ years) Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead end-to-end human-centered design (HCD) research projects, from initial scoping to strategic recommendation delivery.
• Conduct extensive qualitative research, utilizing ethnographic and behavioral science methodologies to understand complex human behaviors.
• Drive impactful behavior change initiatives by translating research insights into actionable strategies for clients in social impact and international development.
• Facilitate co-creation workshops and manage client relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including UN agencies and local NGOs.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to the strategic growth and capability development of the research team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is situated within a specialized human-centered design studio focused on solving pressing behavioral challenges in Southeast Asia. This implies a strong emphasis on qualitative research, ethnographic fieldwork, and the application of behavioral science frameworks to drive tangible social impact. The "Innovation" department designation suggests a forward-thinking, problem-solving environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the planning, execution, and synthesis of human-centered design research projects, ensuring alignment with client objectives and project scope.
• Design and implement qualitative research methodologies, including in-depth interviews, focus groups, and ethnographic observation, to uncover deep user needs and motivations.
• Apply established behavioral science frameworks (e.g., COM-B, Behavior Change Wheel, Nudge Theory) to diagnose root causes of behavioral barriers and opportunities.
• Facilitate interactive ideation and co-creation sessions with diverse stakeholder groups to collaboratively develop innovative and contextually relevant solutions.
• Cultivate and manage productive relationships with a variety of clients, including international development organizations, government ministries, and grassroots NGOs.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to junior research team members, fostering their professional development and contributing to the team's overall research expertise.
• Contribute to the strategic direction and growth of 17 Triggers by identifying new opportunities and refining service offerings.
• Synthesize complex research findings into clear, compelling, and actionable strategic recommendations for diverse audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "leading projects from start to finish" and "mentoring junior researchers" indicates a senior-level individual contributor role with leadership responsibilities, requiring strong project management skills and the ability to guide others in research practices. The mention of "behavioral challenges" and specific frameworks points towards a deep application of behavioral science, not just theoretical knowledge.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A degree in behavioral science, psychology, anthropology, design, or a closely related field is required.
• A Master's degree is preferred but not strictly necessary if extensive relevant experience is demonstrated.

Experience:

• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience leading qualitative research projects, with a strong preference for experience within Human-Centered Design (HCD), social impact, or international development contexts.

Required Skills:

• Qualitative Research Leadership: Proven ability to design, execute, and manage complex qualitative research projects from initiation to completion.
• Ethnographic Fieldwork: Extensive experience conducting immersive field research, including in-depth interviews and observational studies in diverse cultural contexts.
• Behavioral Science Application: Strong understanding and practical application of behavioral science theories and frameworks to analyze and influence human behavior.
• Strategic Insight Generation: Demonstrated ability to synthesize complex data into clear, actionable, and strategic insights that drive decision-making.
• Client & Stakeholder Management: Excellent skills in building and maintaining relationships with diverse clients and stakeholders, managing expectations, and navigating complex dynamics.
• Project & Budget Management: Proficient in managing project timelines, resources, and budgets effectively while maintaining high-quality output.
• Facilitation Skills: Expertise in designing and facilitating workshops, ideation sessions, and co-creation activities for diverse groups.
• English Fluency: Professional-level fluency in written and spoken English.

Preferred Skills:

• Human-Centered Design (HCD) Expertise: Formal training or extensive practical experience in HCD methodologies (e.g., from IDEO, Stanford d.school).
• Southeast Asian Market Experience: Prior work experience within Southeast Asia, with a particular advantage for experience in Cambodia.
• Sectoral Expertise: Background in sectors such as health, climate change, agriculture, renewable energy, or financial inclusion.
• Development Partner Experience: Familiarity and experience working with major development partners like the World Bank, USAID, FCDO, or ADB.
• Khmer Language Proficiency: A significant asset for fieldwork and stakeholder engagement in Cambodia.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Extra Points For" section highlights specific, high-value skills and experiences that will differentiate candidates, particularly formal HCD training and experience with specific development partners and behavioral science frameworks. The requirement for "7+ years leading qualitative research" clearly defines this as a senior-level position within the research function.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Research Project Case Studies: Showcase 2-3 significant research projects led by the candidate. Each case study should detail the project's objectives, the research questions posed, the methodologies employed (qualitative, ethnographic, behavioral science frameworks), the synthesis process, and the resulting strategic recommendations.
• Impact Demonstration: Clearly articulate how the research insights translated into tangible actions or program designs, and ideally, demonstrate the impact or outcomes achieved as a result of the research.
• Methodological Variety: Include examples that demonstrate a range of qualitative research techniques and the application of behavioral science principles.
• Client-Facing Deliverables: Examples of synthesized insights and strategic recommendations presented to clients, showcasing clarity, conciseness, and actionability.

Process Documentation:

• Research Design Documentation: Evidence of well-structured research plans, including research questions, participant recruitment strategies, and data collection protocols.
• Synthesis and Analysis Frameworks: Documentation of how qualitative data was analyzed and synthesized to derive meaningful insights, potentially including thematic analysis, journey mapping, or behavioral modeling.
• Recommendation Development Process: A clear outline of how research findings were translated into actionable recommendations, showing the iterative process and stakeholder alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio requirement is critical for this role, as it directly assesses a candidate's ability to execute and communicate complex research projects. Emphasis is placed on demonstrating a structured process from research design through to actionable insights and impact, with specific mention of behavioral science frameworks and client deliverables.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $40,000 - $70,000 USD per year (based on market research for senior qualitative researchers with international development/social impact experience in Cambodia, adjusted for international experience and competitive compensation).
• Explanation: This range reflects the senior level of the role (7+ years experience), the specialized nature of HCD and behavioral science research, and the company's stated commitment to competitive compensation for the Cambodian market, acknowledging international experience. Actual compensation will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary recognizing Cambodian market standards and international experience.
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Generous paid time off (leave).
• Regular team-building activities and social events.
• Opportunities for professional development and exposure to diverse projects.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, approximately 40 hours per week.
• Flexibility is offered within a hybrid work model, with potential for remote work when project needs allow.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on the role's seniority, specialization, and location. The provided benefits align with typical offerings for professional roles in international organizations and consultancies, with a specific mention of flexibility that is valuable for research roles requiring fieldwork.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Human-Centered Design Consulting / Social Impact / International Development Consulting Company Size: Small to Medium-sized (estimated 20-50 employees based on typical consulting studio structures) Founded: The company was founded in 2012, indicating over a decade of experience and established methodologies.

Team Structure:

• The research team likely consists of a mix of senior and junior researchers, possibly specialized in different areas of HCD or behavioral science.
• The "Innovation" department suggests a focus on creative problem-solving and forward-thinking approaches.
• Reporting structure is likely to be relatively flat, with the Senior Design Researcher reporting to a Director or Head of Research/Innovation, and mentoring junior team members.
• Cross-functional collaboration is expected with designers, strategists, and project managers within the studio.

Methodology:

• Human-Centered Design (HCD): Core to the company's approach, emphasizing deep understanding of user needs and iterative solution development.
• Behavioral Science Integration: A key differentiator, applying behavioral theories to understand and influence complex behaviors for social impact.
• Ethnographic Research: Commitment to on-the-ground, immersive qualitative research to gain authentic insights.
• Co-creation & Participatory Design: Engaging stakeholders and communities in the design process.

Company Website: https://17triggers.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on behavioral challenges in Southeast Asia, combined with HCD and behavioral science methodologies, positions them as a niche consultancy with a strong social impact mission. The founding date suggests a mature organization with established expertise. The "Innovation" department points to a culture that values creativity and new approaches.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Individual Contributor / Emerging Leader This role represents a significant step up from a mid-level researcher, demanding autonomy, strategic thinking, and the ability to lead complex projects and mentor others. It requires a deep understanding of research methodologies and their application to real-world social and behavioral challenges.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Researcher will likely report to a Director or Head of Research/Innovation. They will also be responsible for mentoring and guiding junior researchers, contributing to a collaborative team environment where knowledge sharing is encouraged.

Operations Impact: The work directly influences programs and campaigns designed to address critical social issues across Southeast Asia. The insights generated and strategies developed by the Senior Design Researcher will have a measurable impact on the lives of thousands, potentially millions, of people, influencing policy, program design, and community engagement.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into a Research Lead, Head of Research, or Director role within 17 Triggers, managing larger teams and portfolios.
• Specialization Deepening: Opportunity to become a recognized expert in specific sectors (health, climate, agriculture) or advanced behavioral science applications.
• Strategic Influence: Contribute directly to the company's strategic direction, business development, and methodology refinement.
• Regional Impact: Expand influence and project scope across various countries in Southeast Asia.
• Skill Development: Continuous learning through diverse projects, client interactions, and potential for further training in HCD or behavioral science.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned for individuals looking to deepen their expertise in HCD and behavioral science within a socially impactful context, with clear pathways for leadership growth and strategic contribution within a specialized consulting firm.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work model, indicating a blend of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility. The office is likely designed to foster creativity and collaboration. Office Location(s): Phnom Penh, Cambodia. This provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture and context of Southeast Asia.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The company emphasizes working with "talented creatives and strategists who genuinely like each other," suggesting a team-oriented atmosphere.
• Tools & Technology: Access to necessary research tools, collaboration platforms, and potentially specialized HCD software.
• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for interaction with a multidisciplinary team, fostering cross-pollination of ideas and learning.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time commitment, approximately 40 hours per week.
• The hybrid model provides flexibility, balancing structured project work and fieldwork with personal autonomy. This is crucial for roles that involve significant fieldwork and potentially long days during research phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model and emphasis on a collaborative, creative environment are key aspects of the work environment. The location in Phnom Penh offers a unique cultural immersion, vital for research focused on Southeast Asia.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: Review of CV and cover letter for alignment with core requirements and interest in 17 Triggers' mission.
2. Portfolio Presentation & Discussion: Candidates will be asked to present 2-3 key research projects from their portfolio, detailing their process, insights, and impact. This will be followed by a discussion to probe deeper into their experience, strategic thinking, and behavioral science application.
3. Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with potential team members and leadership to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with company values.
4. Case Study/Problem-Solving Exercise (Potentially): A practical exercise to assess on-the-spot problem-solving, research design, or strategic recommendation development skills.
5. Final Interview: Discussion with senior leadership, potentially covering strategic contributions and long-term vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Tell a Story: Structure your portfolio presentations like compelling narratives. Clearly define the problem, your approach, the journey of discovery, the key insights, and the actionable outcomes.
• Highlight Process: For each project, walk through your research process step-by-step. Explain why you chose specific methodologies (qualitative, ethnographic, behavioral science frameworks) and how they helped you uncover insights.
• Demonstrate Impact: Quantify impact where possible. Even if not strictly quantifiable, articulate the practical application and influence of your research on client strategies or program design.
• Showcase Behavioral Science Application: Clearly articulate how you applied behavioral science principles. What frameworks did you use? How did they inform your understanding and recommendations?
• Be Specific: Avoid vague statements. Use concrete examples and details from your projects. Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your role, decisions, and challenges.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand HCD & Behavioral Science: Refresh your knowledge of core HCD principles and key behavioral science theories. Be ready to discuss how they apply to real-world scenarios.
• Analyze Case Studies: Prepare to discuss how you would approach research for a hypothetical social impact challenge in Southeast Asia. Consider the cultural context, potential barriers, and relevant methodologies.
• Communication Skills: Practice articulating complex ideas clearly and concisely. Be ready to present your thoughts logically and persuasively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio presentation is central to this role. Candidates should prepare to deeply discuss their past work, focusing on process, insight generation, and demonstrable impact, particularly through the lens of HCD and behavioral science.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Qualitative Data Analysis Software: Proficiency in tools like NVivo, Dedoose, or similar for organizing, coding, and analyzing qualitative data.
• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Miro, Mural, or FigJam for remote co-creation workshops and brainstorming.
• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools such as Asana, Trello, or Monday.com for managing project timelines and tasks.
• Presentation Software: Advanced skills in PowerPoint, Google Slides, or Keynote for creating compelling client deliverables.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While the role is primarily qualitative, an understanding of how to integrate qualitative findings with quantitative data (if available) is beneficial. Familiarity with basic data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) for presenting integrated insights could be an advantage.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly specified, but experience in client relationship management is crucial. Familiarity with CRM basics for tracking client interactions could be helpful.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack focuses heavily on tools for qualitative analysis, remote collaboration, and project management, reflecting the nature of HCD research and consulting.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Human-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and prioritizing the needs and perspectives of the people they serve.
• Impact-Driven: A focus on creating meaningful, positive change in society through research and design.
• Curiosity & Learning: A culture that encourages continuous learning, exploration, and intellectual curiosity about human behavior and complex problems.
• Collaboration & Mutual Respect: Valuing teamwork, open communication, and the contributions of every team member, regardless of seniority.
• Integrity & Rigor: A commitment to conducting research ethically and with methodological rigor to ensure credible and actionable insights.
• Adaptability & Resilience: Embracing ambiguity and navigating challenges inherent in development work with flexibility and a problem-solving mindset.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Seamless collaboration with designers, strategists, and project managers to ensure research findings are integrated into holistic solutions.
• Open Feedback Culture: Encouraging constructive feedback and open dialogue to refine methodologies and improve outcomes.
• Knowledge Sharing: Actively sharing learnings, best practices, and insights across the team to build collective expertise.
• Client Partnership: Working collaboratively with clients, treating them as partners in the research and design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is built around a strong social mission, emphasizing empathy, rigor, and collaborative problem-solving. This is crucial for attracting candidates who are passionate about making a difference.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Complex Social Systems: Working within diverse cultural contexts and addressing deeply entrenched behavioral patterns in areas like health, agriculture, and climate change.
• Managing Stakeholder Expectations: Balancing the needs and perspectives of various stakeholders (clients, communities, government) who may have differing priorities.
• Fieldwork Realities: Conducting research in potentially challenging environments, requiring adaptability, resourcefulness, and resilience.
• Translating Insights to Action: Ensuring research recommendations are practical, implementable, and effectively adopted by clients and communities.
• Measuring Impact: Demonstrating the tangible impact of HCD and behavioral science interventions in complex development settings.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced HCD & Behavioral Science Training: Potential for specialized training or certifications to deepen expertise.
• Sectoral Deep Dives: Gaining in-depth knowledge and experience across diverse social impact sectors.
• Regional Exposure: Expanding understanding of development challenges and cultural nuances across Southeast Asia.
• Mentorship: Receiving guidance from senior leaders and mentoring junior researchers to hone leadership skills.
• Networking: Building a professional network within the international development and social impact community.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section highlights the inherent complexities of social impact work and positions them as opportunities for professional growth and skill development, particularly in areas like cross-cultural research and impact measurement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex behavioral challenge you've researched. What was your approach, what insights did you uncover, and how did your findings lead to actionable strategies?"
• "How do you ensure your research is truly human-centered and avoids imposing external assumptions? Can you give an example?"
• "Walk us through your process for applying a specific behavioral science framework (e.g., COM-B, Nudge Theory) to a real-world problem. What were the challenges and successes?"
• "How do you manage conflicting priorities or feedback from different stakeholders on a research project?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What specifically about 17 Triggers' mission and work in Southeast Asia resonates with you?"
• "How do you approach mentoring junior researchers and fostering a collaborative team environment?"
• "Describe a time you had to adapt your research approach due to unexpected circumstances or cultural nuances."
• "How do you see your role contributing to the strategic growth of a boutique HCD firm like 17 Triggers?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Diverse Examples: Choose projects that showcase a range of methodologies, sectors, and client types.
• Focus on Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions and leadership within each project.
• Emphasize the "Why": Explain the rationale behind your methodological choices and strategic decisions.
• Quantify Impact if Possible: Use metrics or concrete examples to demonstrate the tangible outcomes of your work.
• Be Ready for Detail: Prepare to delve into the specifics of your research design, data analysis, synthesis, and recommendation development.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice should center on demonstrating a deep understanding of HCD and behavioral science, showcasing strong qualitative research leadership, and articulating a passion for social impact. The portfolio is key to this assessment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Researcher position:

• Submit your CV, a tailored cover letter, and your portfolio or work samples through the provided application link.
• Portfolio Customization: Select 2-3 of your most impactful research projects that best demonstrate your leadership in qualitative research, application of behavioral science, and ability to drive social impact. Ensure each example clearly outlines your process, insights, and the resulting actions or strategies.
• Resume Optimization: Highlight your 7+ years of experience leading qualitative research, specifically mentioning experience in HCD, social impact, or international development. Use keywords from the job description such as "ethnographic methods," "behavioral science," "co-creation," and "strategic insights."
• Cover Letter Crafting: Clearly articulate why you are passionate about 17 Triggers' mission and this specific role. Explain what unique skills and experiences you bring that align with their focus on behavioral challenges in Southeast Asia, and how your HCD and behavioral science expertise can contribute to their work.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with 17 Triggers' website, past projects, and their approach to human-centered design and behavioral science. Understand their values and the context of their work in Cambodia and the broader Southeast Asian region.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.