Open Source Information Analyst

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Regional Office for Southeast Asia and the Pacific (ROSEAP) of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The UNODC was established to assist Member States in their struggle against illicit drugs, crime, and terrorism. The organization aims to promote justice and the rule of law, and it operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on various issues related to drug control, crime prevention, and criminal justice reform. The ROSEAP office specifically addresses regional challenges and works collaboratively with governments and other stakeholders to enhance security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and development in Southeast Asia and the Pacific.

Job Overview:
The Open Source Information Analyst will play a crucial role in the ROSEAP Research Hub, contributing to the development of analytical products that address transnational organized crime and its connections to non-traditional security challenges. The incumbent will be responsible for collecting and analyzing open-source information from various digital platforms, including social media, to assess the credibility of the data. This position requires a strong understanding of organized crime dynamics, as well as the ability to conduct detailed analyses of cryptocurrency and blockchain information related to illicit activities. The analyst will also implement data analytics strategies to optimize the quality of research outputs and support the development of training materials. Furthermore, the role involves liaising with various stakeholders, including government officials and international partners, to share insights and findings that can inform policy and operational responses to organized crime.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of specific duties, including but not limited to: contributing to the ROSEAP Research Hub's work by developing analytical products; supporting the collection and analysis of open-source information; verifying and authenticating digital content related to organized crime; conducting preliminary analyses of cryptocurrency information; implementing data analytics processes; maintaining databases; developing training materials; liaising with government counterparts and partners; preparing briefing materials for senior management; contributing to funding proposals; engaging with the Research Analysis Branch of HQ; representing ROSEAP in various forums; monitoring and analyzing program/project development; applying open-source intelligence methodologies; identifying trends using statistical methods; proposing the use of specialized software for data analysis; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of transnational organized crime and its connections to non-traditional security challenges. They should have the ability to identify data sources, analyze information, and draft comprehensive research reports. Familiarity with open-source information collection methodologies and data analysis principles is essential. The ideal candidate will demonstrate professional competence, efficiency in meeting commitments, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. They should also be able to present findings clearly and link them to the strategic objectives of UNODC.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in public health, social and behavioral change communication, social science, political science, development cooperation, or a related field is required. Alternatively, 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.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible work experience in the collection, analysis, preservation, and management of information related to transnational organized crime or illicit trafficking is required. Candidates should have experience engaging with law enforcement practitioners and may also have completed the Young Professionals Programme Examination (YPP) or similar competitive recruitment examinations. Desirable experience includes monitoring dark net markets, engaging with regulatory authorities, and applying data manipulation and analysis concepts. Experience in research and analysis of organized crime in the Asia Pacific region, as well as certifications in cybersecurity and blockchain analysis, is also advantageous.

Languages:
English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. French is also a working language, but there are no additional desirable languages specified for this job opening. Candidates should consult the UN Language Framework for details on the required proficiency levels in these languages.

Additional Notes:
The job is based in Bangkok, Thailand, and is likely a full-time position. Specific details regarding contract duration, seniority level, compensation, and benefits are not provided in the job description. However, candidates should be prepared for potential international recruitment processes, as the UN often seeks diverse applicants from various backgrounds.