Remote Consultant in Collaborative Human-AI Argumentation

Remote Consultant in Collaborative Human-AI Argumentation

United Nations University (UNU)

September 8, 2026October 9, 2026Home Based Online
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organization that operates within the United Nations System. Established to engage in policy-relevant research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination, UNU aims to further the purposes and principles of the United Nations. Over the past fifty years, UNU has become a vital source of impartial research focused on sustainability, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">human security, and economic development. With hundreds of researchers working across 12 countries, UNU's expertise encompasses the full range of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), generating policy-relevant knowledge that aims to effect positive global change. The organization collaborates closely with other UN entities and leading research institutions worldwide, making it a pivotal player in addressing pressing global issues.

Job Overview:
The position of Remote Consultant in Collaborative Human-AI Argumentation involves contributing to cutting-edge research in artificial intelligence (AI) with a focus on developing a human-AI argumentative framework that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The consultant will work under the direct supervision of the Senior Researcher/Acting Head of Research, engaging in research that supports UN member states in making decisions that are aligned with the SDGs. The role requires the consultant to contribute to the delivery of a prototype of the framework and assist in its validation with domain experts and stakeholders. Additionally, the consultant will be responsible for writing and submitting at least one publication or technical demonstration to a top-tier conference or journal, thereby contributing to the academic discourse surrounding AI and its applications in sustainable development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will have several key responsibilities, including: conducting comprehensive research on an inclusive human-AI argumentative framework that supports decision-making aligned with the SDGs; collaborating with domain experts and stakeholders to validate the developed prototype; contributing to the writing of at least one publication or technical demo for submission to a prestigious conference or journal; and delivering a human-AI argumentative framework that effectively supports SDG-aligned decision-making. The consultant will also be expected to engage in ongoing communication with the research team and contribute to the overall goals of UNU by generating impactful results that advance the understanding and application of AI in sustainable development contexts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong track record of publications and/or hands-on projects related to trustworthy multi-agent recommender systems and human-AI dialogue protocols, including counterfactual scenarios. Additionally, experience in designing explainable AI frameworks is essential. The ideal candidate should have a background in AI projects that have a social impact and have worked effectively within multidisciplinary teams. Strong analytical skills and the ability to synthesize complex information into actionable insights are also required.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in fields such as artificial intelligence, computer science, data science, engineering, applied mathematics, or physics is required for this position. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of AI and its applications in collaborative environments.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a significant level of experience in AI-related projects, particularly those that focus on social impact. This includes a proven ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams and a history of contributing to research that aligns with the goals of the United Nations. Candidates should demonstrate their capacity to engage in high-level research and development activities that contribute to the advancement of AI technologies in support of sustainable development.

Languages:
Strong communication skills in English are mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's application, reflecting the organization's commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Additional Notes:
The successful candidate will be engaged under a Consultant Contract (CTC) from September 24 to December 10, 202
  • It is important to note that consultants engaged by UNU may not provide services for more than twenty-four months within a thirty-six month period. The initial engagement will be for a contract of twelve months. UNU is not liable for any taxes that may be levied on the remuneration received under this contract, and payment of such taxes remains the sole responsibility of the consultant. The remuneration will be commensurate with experience and based on a daily rate submitted as part of the application process. This contract does not entitle the consultant to paid annual leave or sick leave. Should mission travel be required, UNU will cover travel costs, but this is contingent upon meeting specific prerequisites such as medical and security clearance, completion of the BSAFE online course, and obtaining a travel visa. Travel costs will be calculated based on economy class travel, and expenses for accommodation, meals, and incidentals must adhere to applicable daily subsistence allowance rates as promulgated by the International Civil Service Commission. The expected start date for this position is September 24, 202
  • To apply, candidates must fill out the UNU P11 Form, provide a motivation statement, and answer tailored questions related to the position. The application deadline is September 10, 2026, with submissions required by 11:59 PM (Macau time zone, GMT+8). Late entries will not be accepted. UNU does not sponsor working visas for this position, and consultants do not hold international civil servant status. The organization is committed to diversity and encourages applications from all backgrounds, including women and individuals from developing countries.
Apply now