Data Scientist

Job Posting Organization:
The Policy, Evaluation and Training Division (DPET) is part of the Department of Peace Operations within the United Nations. DPET is responsible for developing and disseminating policies and doctrines that guide Peacekeeping Operations. Established to enhance the effectiveness of peacekeeping missions, DPET evaluates the application of these policies and gathers lessons learned to inform training and operational improvements. The division collaborates with various UN and external partners to ensure that peacekeeping operations are efficient and effective. The Policy and Best Practices Service (PBPS), which is a component of DPET, focuses on improving peacekeeping operations through the exchange of best practices and the development of guidance materials. PBPS also leads several reform processes aimed at enhancing the overall performance of peacekeeping missions. The organization operates globally, with a presence in multiple countries, and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment.

Job Overview:
The scientist" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Data Scientist position is located within the Policy and Best Practices Service (PBPS) of the Division of Policy, Evaluation and Training (DPET) at the Department of Peace Operations (DPO) in New York. The primary focus of this role is to support peacekeeping operations by monitoring, analyzing, and responding to misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech. The Data Scientist will work closely with various stakeholders to leverage data for business solutions, ensuring data integrity and compliance with privacy regulations. This position requires a strong understanding of data analysis techniques and the ability to communicate insights effectively through reports and visualizations. The Data Scientist will also be responsible for developing technology solutions to monitor and analyze the digital information environment, utilizing predictive modeling to optimize outcomes and enhance program development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Data Scientist will be responsible for a range of duties, including but not limited to: analyzing large and complex datasets to extract meaningful insights; preparing comprehensive reports that communicate trends and patterns; ensuring data integrity and compliance with privacy regulations; collaborating with stakeholders to identify opportunities for data-driven solutions; mining and analyzing data from organizational databases to improve program development and advocacy strategies; assessing the effectiveness of new data sources and gathering techniques; developing technology solutions for monitoring and analyzing digital information; utilizing predictive modeling to enhance business outcomes; creating an A/B testing framework and evaluating model quality; coordinating with functional teams to implement models and monitor their performance; and performing other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of the data analysis life cycle, including data ingestion, wrangling, analysis, and visualization. Proficiency in developing digital software tools using relevant programming languages is essential. Candidates should have excellent knowledge of statistical and computational methods, including clustering, classification, correlation, dimension reduction, forecasting, machine learning, and regression. The ability to apply judgment in assignments, manage conflicting priorities, and demonstrate professionalism and efficiency in meeting commitments is crucial. Candidates should also be committed to incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring equal participation in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in data science, computer science, information management, statistics, public administration, public information, management, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of experience in data science, data analytics, applied mathematics, information management, or a related area is required. Candidates should have experience in developing technology solutions related to the analysis of both digital and analogue information environments. Experience in providing training on the analysis of digital information is desirable, as is experience in conducting data analysis of digital media datasets. Familiarity with data science tools such as Jupyter, Matlab, Knime, SPSS, SAS, or similar programming languages like R, Python, or Javascript is also desirable. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to use data to inform decisions and strategies effectively.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is considered desirable, also at UN Level II proficiency.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until December 31, 2026, with the possibility of extension. If the selected candidate is a current staff member of the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be administered as a temporary assignment. This temporary position does not guarantee future employment and is subject to funding availability. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is committed to upholding the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its hiring practices.