Research Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), which is a part of the United Nations. Established in 1964, UNCTAD aims to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization focuses on trade, investment, and sustainable development, and operates in over 190 countries. UNCTAD employs a diverse workforce of approximately 1,000 staff members, including economists, researchers, and administrative personnel, who work collaboratively to provide policy analysis and recommendations to member states.

Job Overview:
The position of Research Assistant involves supporting the implementation and coordination of the GGSP COTONI project in Benin. The individual contractor will work under the supervision of the Interregional Advisor and will be responsible for monitoring project activities, ensuring effective reporting to donor counterparts, and providing operational and analytical support to the Project Manager. The role requires a proactive approach to project management, including maintaining work plans, tracking deliverables, and preparing management tools to facilitate project monitoring. The contractor will also assist in the preparation of periodic updates and reports, contributing to the overall success of the project by ensuring timely implementation and effective coordination with stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist the Project Manager in coordinating day-to-day activities related to the GGSP COTONI project, including follow-up on work plans and coordination with national stakeholders in Benin.
• Maintain and update project management tools, track deliverables, and prepare Excel databases, PowerPoint presentations, and tracking tables for effective project monitoring and reporting.
• Prepare periodic implementation updates, briefing notes, and progress reports, consolidating inputs from project stakeholders and contributing to donor-related documentation.
• Compile and organize trade-related data, prepare graphs and visualizations, and assist in creating background materials on trade facilitation and capacity development in Benin and other LDCs.
• Maintain an overview of project timelines and deliverables, assisting in sequencing activities for timely implementation.
• Support logistical preparations for meetings, workshops, and missions, including documentation preparation and coordination with UNCTAD administrative services.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's) in Economics, International Trade, Social Science, or a related field. Additionally, at least one year of relevant experience in management, economics, or a related area is required. The role demands strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's) in a relevant field such as Economics, International Trade, or Social Science is mandatory for this position. This educational background ensures that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and analytical skills to contribute effectively to the project.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of one year of professional experience in management, economics, or a related field. This experience should ideally include project management, data analysis, and coordination with various stakeholders, which are crucial for the successful execution of the GGSP COTONI project.

Languages:
Fluency in both written and spoken English and French is required for this position. This bilingual proficiency is essential for effective communication with project stakeholders and for preparing documentation and reports in both languages.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and is expected to last from July 20, 2026, to November 6, 202

• It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process.