Research Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is an intergovernmental organization founded in 1975, with a mission to promote peace, stability, and democracy in Europe. The OSCE has 57 participating States and operates in various countries across Europe, Central Asia, and North America. The organization focuses on a comprehensive approach to security that includes politico-military, economic, environmental, and human aspects. The OSCE Secretariat, located in Vienna, provides operational and administrative support to field operations and other institutions, ensuring that the organization's objectives are met effectively.

Job Overview:
The Research Assistant position within the Office of the Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings (OSR/CTHB) involves supporting the development and implementation of initiatives aimed at combating human trafficking. The incumbent will conduct thematic and geographical research related to trafficking in human beings, assist in organizing conferences and events, and contribute to the preparation of training materials. This role requires a proactive approach to keeping abreast of relevant policy and human rights issues that impact OSCE's anti-trafficking actions. The successful candidate will work closely with senior staff and contribute to the office's written outputs, ensuring that the OSCE's commitments in combating trafficking are effectively communicated and implemented.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Research Assistant include:

• Assisting in the development and implementation of OSR/CTHB initiatives and events, including conducting targeted research.
• Providing input and assistance for the organization of various activities such as conferences, meetings, and training seminars.
• Supporting the preparation of materials for distribution at events, including compiling documents, speeches, and presentations.
• Conducting thematic and geographical research related to trafficking in human beings for senior staff.
• Collecting, organizing, and analyzing data on anti-trafficking issues and news articles.
• Acting as the focal point for the collection and dissemination of relevant research and information.
• Contributing to the preparation of training materials and keeping updated on relevant policy issues.
• Participating in meetings and discussions on anti-trafficking issues, drafting meeting notes and correspondence.
• Checking outgoing documents for format and accuracy. 1
• Performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a second-level university degree in international relations, law, political sciences, or related fields. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience will also be accepted. A minimum of one year of relevant professional experience is required, with at least one year in an international or multilateral context. Established experience in implementing activities and conducting research in combating human trafficking, human rights, and rule of law is highly desirable. Candidates should have knowledge of international law and relations, project management principles, and experience in diplomatic affairs and coordination. Professional fluency in English, with excellent communication skills, is mandatory. Candidates should demonstrate gender awareness and sensitivity, and the ability to work in diverse teams while maintaining impartiality.

Educational Background:
The position requires a second-level university degree (Master's degree) in international relations, law, political sciences, or other related fields. Alternatively, a first-level university degree with two additional years of relevant experience will be accepted in lieu of the second-level degree. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary theoretical knowledge and analytical skills required for the role.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of one year of relevant professional experience, which may include internships or volunteer work in related fields. If the candidate holds a first-level university degree, two years of relevant experience are required. Experience within an international or multilateral context is essential, as is established experience in implementing activities and conducting research specifically related to combating human trafficking and human rights.

Languages:
Professional fluency in English is mandatory for this position, with excellent oral and written communication skills. While English is the primary language of communication, knowledge of additional languages, particularly those relevant to the OSCE region, would be considered an asset and beneficial for the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract at the OSCE Secretariat in Vienna, with a full-time schedule. The monthly remuneration is approximately EUR 4,790, subject to post adjustment and family status. OSCE salaries are exempt from taxation in Austria, and social benefits include participation in the Cigna medical insurance scheme and the OSCE Provident Fund. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The maximum period of service in this post is limited, and candidates should be aware that appointments are subject to medical clearance. The mandatory retirement age for contracted positions is 65 years.