AI Governance Analyst

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network established in 1965, working in approximately 170 countries and territories. Its mission is to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. UNDP focuses on helping countries achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by providing expert advice, training, and support for developing policies, leadership skills, partnering abilities, and institutional capabilities. The organization employs thousands of staff members worldwide, collaborating with governments, civil society, and the private sector to implement projects that promote sustainable development and resilience.

Job Overview:
The AI Governance Analyst position is a critical role within the UNDP's AI Sprint initiative, which aims to leverage artificial intelligence to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Arab States region. This position focuses on the implementation of the AI Sprint, particularly the AI Landscape Assessment (AILA) and Trust & Safety pillars. The Analyst will be responsible for mapping AI readiness across various countries, developing ethical governance frameworks, and ensuring that AI technologies are adopted inclusively. The role requires collaboration with governments, academia, and private sector partners to align AI initiatives with global best practices and regional development priorities, ultimately positioning the Arab States as leaders in responsible and inclusive AI.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The AI Governance Analyst will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• AI Governance and Trust & Safety: - Contributing to the design and development of AI governance frameworks, policies, and ethical guidelines. - Assisting in conducting risk assessments that address fairness, bias, transparency, and privacy in AI systems. - Supporting multi-stakeholder consultations to promote responsible AI adoption across the region. - Organizing and delivering workshops and AI events.
• AI Landscape Assessment (AILA): - Supporting country-level ecosystem assessments to evaluate AI capacities, gaps, and governance readiness. - Analyzing data and preparing policy briefs and reports to inform regional priorities and strategies.
• AI Models: - Supporting initiatives focused on Arabic and local-language AI model development and deployment. - Engaging with partners to enhance linguistic inclusivity and representation in AI systems. - Documenting lessons learned and promoting inclusive and culturally relevant AI approaches.
• Capacity Building: - Developing and delivering training materials, toolkits, and workshops on AI ethics, governance, and Trust & Safety. - Organizing regional workshops, webinars, and peer-exchange sessions.
• Research and Knowledge Generation: - Supporting the development of knowledge products, case studies, and concept notes to inform decision-making and share best practices. - Monitoring global AI governance trends and contributing to aligning regional frameworks with international standards.
• Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement: - Supporting the design and implementation of a partner engagement strategy. - Liaising with governments, academia, and private sector partners to strengthen collaboration around AI governance. The Analyst will also perform other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business, AI, data science, international affairs, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree) with two additional years of qualifying experience may be considered in lieu of a Master’s degree. The position requires demonstrated expertise in AI ethics, governance, or regulatory frameworks, along with strong analytical and writing skills, particularly in producing policy briefs and reports. Additionally, candidates should have experience conducting AI or digital readiness assessments, excellent facilitation, research, and communication skills, and stakeholder engagement and partnership coordination abilities. Experience with UNDP, other UN agencies, or government institutions is also desired.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as business, artificial intelligence, data science, international affairs, or any other related discipline. Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree may be considered if they have two additional years of relevant experience, which will be taken into account in lieu of the Master’s degree.

Experience:
The AI Governance Analyst position requires up to two years of relevant work experience for candidates with a Master’s degree, or two years of relevant experience for those with a Bachelor’s degree. This experience should be in areas such as digital transformation, computer sciences, AI governance, or related fields. Candidates should demonstrate a solid understanding of AI ethics and governance, as well as experience in producing analytical reports and policy briefs.

Languages:
The position requires excellent written and spoken proficiency in both Arabic and English. Knowledge of a second UN language, particularly French, is considered a desirable asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage in a multilingual environment and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Amman, Jordan, and may require travel to other countries in the Arab region as necessary. The role is full-time and offers an opportunity to work within a dynamic and impactful organization focused on advancing sustainable development through innovative approaches. UNDP is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and adheres to strict standards against harassment and discrimination.