International Consultant for Technology Needs Assessment

Job Posting Organization:
The UN Technology Bank for Least Developed Countries was established to support the socio-economic transformation of LDCs through the promotion of science, technology, and innovation (STI). The organization aims to address the technological deficits faced by LDCs and facilitate their sustainable development. Since its inception in 2019, the UN Technology Bank has been actively conducting Technology Needs Assessments (TNAs) in various LDCs, including Uganda, to identify the technologies and technical know-how necessary for addressing key development challenges. The organization collaborates with governments, private sectors, and civil society to foster partnerships that enhance STI capabilities and promote sustainable growth. The UN Technology Bank operates in multiple countries, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities present in each LDC, and aims to provide actionable recommendations for technology adoption and innovation-led growth.

Job Overview:
The position of International Consultant for Technology Needs Assessment involves a comprehensive analysis of Uganda's national development context and its Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ecosystem. The consultant will work closely with national consultants to assess the functioning of the National Innovation System (NIS), identify priority sectors for technological intervention, and evaluate the barriers to technology acquisition and deployment. The consultant will lead stakeholder engagement processes, conduct qualitative and quantitative research, and synthesize findings into actionable recommendations that align with Uganda's development goals and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The role requires a deep understanding of the challenges faced by LDCs and the ability to develop strategies that leverage STI for socio-economic transformation. The consultant will also be responsible for drafting and finalizing the Technology Needs Assessment report, which will serve as a critical tool for guiding Uganda's technological development and investment strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The International Consultant will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Conducting an inception phase and kick-off meeting to establish a work plan and timeline.
• Analyzing the STI environment and National System of Innovation (NSI) in Uganda, identifying priority sectors for Technology Needs Assessment (TNA).
• Preparing a draft list of interviewees and conducting consultations with STI experts to gather insights on the functioning of the NSI and its evolution.
• Conducting an in-depth analysis of selected TNA priority sectors, mapping their development status, innovation dynamics, and technological capabilities.
• Overseeing the design and submission of surveys and questionnaires to identify relevant technologies in the selected sub-sectors.
• Coordinating data analysis and drafting technology factsheets for prioritized technologies.
• Preparing the TNA report, including recommendations for attracting investment in STI.
• Finalizing the report based on feedback from stakeholders and ensuring its alignment with the UN Technology Bank's guidance.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Economics, International Development, or Science, Technology and Innovation Policy. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, candidates should have at least ten years of working experience in research, international development, trade, or related areas. Extensive knowledge of innovation systems, technological learning, and the policy environment for capacity building in STI is essential. Experience in qualitative and quantitative research methods, data collection, and analysis is required, along with strong analytical writing and communication skills. Familiarity with the development challenges facing LDCs is desirable, as is practical experience with foreign direct investment.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in fields such as Economics, International Development, Science, Technology and Innovation Policy, or Innovation Studies. A first-level university degree in similar fields, combined with two additional years of qualifying experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of STI and its role in development.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of ten years of relevant working experience in areas such as research, international development, trade, science, technology, and innovation. This experience should include a strong understanding of innovation systems and the ability to conduct both qualitative and quantitative research. Familiarity with the challenges faced by LDCs and experience in working with investment promotion agencies or similar organizations is also desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but English is the primary language of communication and reporting.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for a duration of nine months, with the possibility of at least one mission/travel to Uganda, which will be arranged and covered by the UN Technology Bank. The consultant will report directly to the UN Technology Bank and collaborate closely with national consultants. Payment fees will be discussed with the selected candidate. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and fair hiring process.