Student Assistant

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 been 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 other UN entities and leading research institutions worldwide, making significant contributions to solving pressing global issues.

Job Overview:
The position of Student Assistant at the United Nations University’s Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) involves supporting the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director and the Research Manager in the review and assessment of scientific evidence related to climate change mitigation, specifically focusing on the 'Services and Demand' chapter of the upcoming IPCC publication. The role requires the assistant to engage in qualitative data analysis, literature reviews, and the preparation of thematic summaries. The student assistant will also contribute to knowledge management and learning by assisting in the organization of literature reviews and editing research outputs. This position is ideal for a graduate student looking to gain hands-on experience in climate change research and contribute to significant global initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Student Assistant will be responsible for a variety of tasks under the supervision of the Deputy Director and Research Manager. Key responsibilities include:

• Research & Qualitative Data Analysis Support: Conduct literature reviews on the state of 'Services and Demand' in relation to climate change mitigation; code and perform thematic analysis of qualitative results; prepare thematic summaries and identify key narratives across research topics; assist in developing visual representations of findings, including graphs and theme maps; draft knowledge products such as internal summaries and presentation materials; participate in internal research discussions, take notes, and help structure outputs as required.
• Knowledge Management & Learning: Contribute to background research for the 'Services and Demand' chapter of the IPCC publication; support the organization of literature reviews using an IPCC-designated reference management system; assist with layout, editing, and proofreading of research outputs.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor, ensuring timely and quality collection, synthesis, and generation of scientific information and knowledge outputs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be enrolled in a Master’s degree program in Geography, Environmental Sciences, or Climate Change-related subjects. They should have demonstrated experience in qualitative data analysis and literature reviews, proficiency with reference management software (e.g., Citavi or similar), and an excellent command of written English with strong writing and synthesis skills. High attention to detail and the ability to organize findings thematically are essential. Candidates should also be able to work independently, meet deadlines, and collaborate within a virtual research team. Experience with qualitative data analysis software, preferably MAXQDA or similar, is an asset, as is familiarity with the visual presentation of research.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is enrollment in a Master’s degree program, specifically in fields related to Geography, Environmental Sciences, or Climate Change. This educational background is crucial as it provides the necessary theoretical foundation and understanding of the complex issues surrounding climate change and environmental risks.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have some level of experience in qualitative data analysis and literature reviews. While specific years of experience are not mandated, demonstrated practical experience in these areas is essential for effectively contributing to the research tasks outlined in the job description. Familiarity with qualitative data analysis software and reference management tools is also highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as all research outputs and communications will be conducted in English. While not explicitly required, proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they relate to the geographical focus of the research.

Additional Notes:
The successful candidate will be engaged under a Consultant Contract (CTC) and may not provide services for more than twenty-four (24) months within a thirty-six (36) month period. UNU is not liable for any taxes that may be levied on the remuneration received under this contract, and payment of such taxes remains the sole responsibility of the consultant. The expected start date for this position is 15 January 202

• Travel considerations for mission travel will be covered by UNU, subject to prerequisites such as medical and security clearance. The remuneration will be commensurate with experience, and UNU encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, including women and candidates from developing countries.