Scientific Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) was established to promote economic and social development in Africa. ECA's mission is to deliver ideas and actions for an empowered and transformed Africa, informed by the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 206

• The organization operates with a focus on five strategic directions: advancing ECA’s position as a premier knowledge institution, developing macroeconomic and structural policy options, designing innovative financing models, contributing solutions to regional challenges, and advocating Africa’s position at the global level. ECA is headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and works with member states and regional institutions to promote inclusive growth and sustainable development across the continent. The organization employs a diverse workforce and is committed to gender balance and geographical diversity in its staffing.

Job Overview:
The Scientific Affairs Officer position is located within the Technologies, Innovation, and Digital Transformation Section (TIDTS) of the Technology, Innovation, Connectivity, and Infrastructure Division at ECA. The incumbent will be responsible for planning and delivering ECA’s activities aimed at promoting Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) for development. This includes coordinating efforts to implement the Science, Technology, and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA) and relevant regional and global STI frameworks. The role requires a strong understanding of STI policies and the ability to conduct complex analyses to inform national governments and other stakeholders. The officer will also represent ECA at various meetings and conduct training seminars for African national experts, ensuring the dissemination of ECA's strategies and initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Scientific Affairs Officer will perform a variety of duties, including conducting regional, sub-regional, and national analyses to advise governments, designing technical modalities for complex field reviews, and preparing analytical studies on STI relevant to ECA's programs. The officer will draft technical papers based on advanced policy analysis, represent ECA at international and regional meetings, and assist program managers in formulating work program activities. Responsibilities also include drafting written instructions for the implementation of decisions made by ECA's legislative organs, maintaining a database of key monitoring variables, and analyzing collected data. The officer will participate in the appraisal of extra-budgetary program proposals and perform other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in Science, Technology, and Innovation, with a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in related fields such as economic research, policy formulation, and program planning. The ability to apply economic theories and concepts in various sectors of sustainable development is essential. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, planning and organizing skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. The role requires a commitment to achieving organizational goals and a strong understanding of monitoring and evaluation techniques.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in Science, Technology and Innovation or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with two years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A PhD is considered an advantage, as is successful completion of programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience, particularly in the areas of Science, Technology, and Innovation, economic research, and policy analysis. Experience in implementing result-oriented work programs and developing STI strategies for various stakeholders is essential. Additionally, two or more years of experience in data analytics or related fields is desirable, highlighting the need for hands-on experience in the application of economic principles in development programs.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, and knowledge of French is desirable. Candidates should have a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in both reading and writing for English and French. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and may require staff to move periodically to new functions in accordance with established rules. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and diversity in its workforce, encouraging female candidates to apply. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. The evaluation of candidates will be based on their qualifications and adherence to the UN's standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity.