Senior Researcher Team Lead (P3)

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 five decades, UNU has been a source of impartial research on sustainability, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">human security, and economic development, employing hundreds of researchers across 12 countries. The organization focuses on generating policy-relevant knowledge to address pressing global issues, collaborating closely with other UN entities and leading research institutions worldwide. For more information, visit http://unu.edu.

Job Overview:
The Senior Researcher Team Lead at UNU Institute in Macau will be responsible for leading a dynamic research team focused on digital technologies for sustainable development. This role involves developing research programs aligned with the Institute's strategic goals, managing interdisciplinary research projects, and overseeing the budget and finance of these projects. The successful candidate will mentor junior researchers, engage in institutional events, and lead resource mobilization strategies to secure funding for policy-relevant research. The position requires a strong commitment to ethical research practices and the ability to communicate research findings effectively at international venues. The candidate will also be involved in designing educational programs and collaborating with various stakeholders to enhance the impact of research outputs.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead research initiatives aligned with the Institute's strategic goals, managing a team of interdisciplinary researchers and overseeing multiple projects.
• Develop and implement resource mobilization strategies, establishing partnerships with government entities, NGOs, and private sectors to achieve fundraising results.
• Ensure high-quality research outputs by adhering to ethical standards and monitoring project activities.
• Communicate research accomplishments at academic conferences and contribute to the Institute's publication efforts.
• Oversee training and educational activities, designing programs for diverse audiences.
• Perform additional tasks as assigned by the Head of Research and Director, ensuring timely and quality delivery of research projects and operational goals.

Required Qualifications:

• A PhD in relevant fields such as computer science, information studies, or related disciplines is required.
• A minimum of five years of post-doctoral experience in managing academic research programs, including team management.
• A strong track record of academic publications and policy briefs.
• Experience in managing research operations, including finance and human resources.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work in a multicultural environment.
• A passion for the mission of the United Nations and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a PhD in fields related to digital technology, AI, or sustainable development. The focus should be on interdisciplinary research that addresses global challenges and policy-relevant issues. Areas of expertise may include AI's impact on the Sustainable Development Goals, AI governance, and ethics of AI.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of post-doctoral experience in managing successful academic research programs, with a focus on team management and interdisciplinary collaboration. Candidates should have a proven track record of academic publications and experience in managing research operations, including budgeting and human resources.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with strong communication and presentation skills. Knowledge of another UN official working language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time, fixed-term appointment based in Macau, with an initial contract duration of one year, subject to renewal based on performance. The position offers an attractive, tax-exempt compensation package, including annual leave, dependency benefits, and a pension plan. Candidates are required to reside full-time in Macau, as this is not a remote position. The application deadline is set for 09 August, 2026, and submissions must be received by 11:59 PM Macau time. The UNU is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all backgrounds, including women and individuals from developing countries.