Research Support Position

Research Support Position

United Nations University (UNU)

October 30, 2025December 14, 2025New YorkUnited States
United Nations University (UNU) About
The United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organisation headquartered in Japan. The mission of the UN University is to contribute, through collaborative research and education, to efforts to resolve the pressing global problems of human survival, development and welfare that are the concern of the United Nations, its Peoples and Member States. In carrying out this mission, the UN University works with leading universities and research institutes in UN Member States, functioning as a bridge between the international academic community and the United Nations system. Through postgraduate teaching activities, UNU contributes to capacity building, particularly in developing countries.
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organization established within the United Nations System. Its mission is to engage in policy-relevant research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination to further the purposes and principles of the United Nations. Over the past fifty years, UNU has become a vital source of impartial research focused on sustainability, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">human security, and economic development. With hundreds of researchers operating across 12 countries, UNU's expertise encompasses the full spectrum of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, generating policy-relevant knowledge aimed at fostering positive global change. The organization collaborates closely with various UN entities and leading research institutions worldwide, enhancing its impact and reach. For more information, visit http://unu.edu.

Job Overview:
This position is based in New York and involves providing research support for projects at both the United Nations University Centre for Policy Research (UNU-CPR) and the United Nations University World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER). The role requires reporting to the Director or their designated representative and may involve occasional travel to UNU-WIDER in Helsinki. The primary focus of the research will be on multilateralism and new trends in international cooperation, particularly innovations in global governance, economic governance, and the international financial architecture. The successful candidate will be expected to produce high-quality policy reports, technical notes, and publications that identify implications for the multilateral system and provide options for policymakers. Additionally, the role includes attending thematic briefings and relevant policy processes, engaging with UN offices and member states, and supporting the organization of workshops and events related to global governance and economic governance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of this position include conducting empirical research through literature reviews, expert interviews, and both qualitative and quantitative analysis. The candidate will be responsible for producing first drafts of high-quality policy reports and technical notes, as well as supporting the finalization and publication of research products from UNU-CPR and UNU-WIDER. The role also involves attending relevant events, producing summaries of developments, engaging with various stakeholders, and assisting in the organization of workshops. Furthermore, the candidate will help develop content for social media posts, identify key questions in emerging global governance, and assist in the preparation of fundraising materials and meeting reports. Other duties may be assigned by the supervisor as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent in Public Policy, International Affairs, Economics, Political Science, or other relevant social sciences. Additionally, at least two years of progressively responsible experience in research and writing is required, preferably in areas related to economic governance, global governance, and international financial architecture policy development. Knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods is essential, as is experience in drafting complex reports and tracking intergovernmental processes. The candidate should also have experience with stakeholder engagement and event organization, demonstrating strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work independently in a diverse environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree or equivalent in relevant fields such as Public Policy, International Affairs, Economics, Political Science, or other social sciences. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of global governance and economic policy.

Experience:
The position requires at least two years of progressively responsible experience in research and writing, particularly in areas relevant to the role such as economic governance and global governance. Candidates should have a proven track record of drafting complex reports and engaging with stakeholders, as well as experience in organizing events and managing research projects.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English is mandatory, with excellent drafting skills. Knowledge of another UN official working language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered under a Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) contract, with an initial duration of 6 months and the possibility for renewal based on performance and organizational needs. The successful candidate will receive an annual net salary ranging from USD 60,000 to USD 63,304, depending on experience and qualifications. Benefits include 30 days of annual leave and a health insurance scheme. The position is full-time, and the mandatory retirement age for PSA holders is 65 years. The starting date for this position is expected to be in early December 202
  • Applications must be submitted by 12pm NY time on the deadline date, and late submissions will not be accepted. UNU is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.
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