Policy Research Fellow

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organization that operates within the United Nations System. Established to engage in policy-relevant research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination, UNU aims to address pressing global issues that concern the United Nations and its Member States. Over the past fifty years, UNU has been a vital source of impartial research focusing 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 working across 12 countries, UNU's expertise encompasses the full spectrum of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, generating knowledge that informs policy and drives positive global change. The organization collaborates closely with other UN entities and leading research institutions worldwide, reinforcing its mission to contribute to a better world. For more information, please visit http://unu.edu.

Job Overview:
The position of Policy Research Fellow at UNU-IIGH is pivotal in advancing the integration of rights-based and gender-responsive approaches to health systems and institutions. This role is particularly significant as it aligns with the overarching Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of health for all. The fellow will be instrumental in addressing the colonial legacies and power asymmetries that hinder effective digital health governance. The fellow will also focus on strengthening health data governance, particularly in the context of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), and promoting diversity in technology design and development. Under the guidance of the Director and the Research Lead, the fellow will provide technical input, manage selected projects, and lead the production of policy-relevant analyses and research. This position also involves convening critical policy dialogues and developing initiatives aimed at capacity strengthening, making it a dynamic and impactful role within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Policy Research Fellow will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: leading selected projects within the relevant work package and ensuring the generation and dissemination of policy-relevant research; providing technical and managerial leadership for the successful implementation of research and policy engagement activities; building and managing partnerships with external researchers and stakeholders; ensuring that projects meet specified results, quality standards, timelines, and budget parameters; contributing to capacity development, knowledge translation, and facilitating policy dialogues; participating in resource mobilization efforts related to the work package; engaging in international research, policy, and outreach events; supervising policy research associates, PhD students, junior researchers, and interns; and performing any other tasks as assigned by the Director or Research Leads.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant field with at least seven (7) years of progressively senior professional experience, including management of research, training, and policy programs; or a PhD in a relevant field with a minimum of five (5) years of relevant progressively senior professional experience. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate the ability to carry out and manage development research activities in an international environment, have evidence of academic and peer-reviewed publications related to the work packages, and possess a track record in international research and policy engagement. Teaching and research supervision experience is also required, along with excellent verbal and written communication skills in English across various formats. Knowledge of another official UN language is considered an asset. A proven track record of competitive funding and resource mobilization from national and international funding agencies is essential, as is the ability to work effectively in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree or a PhD in a relevant field. The degree should be complemented by substantial professional experience in research, training, and policy programs, ensuring that candidates are well-equipped to handle the complexities of the role and contribute effectively to the organization's mission.

Experience:
The level of experience required for this position is significant, with a minimum of seven (7) years of progressively senior professional experience for candidates with a Master’s degree, or a minimum of five (5) years for those with a PhD. This experience should encompass management of research, training, and policy programs, demonstrating a strong foundation in the relevant areas of work.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent verbal and written communication skills across various formats, including academic publications and policy briefs. Knowledge of another official UN language would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage in a diverse and international environment.

Additional Notes:
The successful candidate will be employed under a Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) contract at the P-3 level, with no relocation allowances applicable. The compensation package includes an annual net salary ranging from USD 59,151.00 to USD 62,024.00, depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications. Benefits include 30 days of annual leave and a health insurance scheme. The initial contract duration is one year, with the possibility of renewal based on requirements and satisfactory performance. The total duration of a PSA contract with UNU may not exceed six (6) years, and the mandatory retirement age for PSA holders is 65 years. The expected start date for this position is as soon as possible. Candidates are encouraged to apply via the provided link, filling out the UNU P11 Form and providing a motivation statement. The application deadline is set for 22 February 2026, with evaluations potentially including assessments and competency-based interviews. UNU is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all backgrounds, including women and individuals from developing countries.