Research Associate (PSA3)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organization within the United Nations System, established to engage in policy-relevant research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination. For over fifty years, 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, with hundreds of researchers working at institutes in 12 countries. The organization aims to solve pressing global problems that concern the United Nations and its Member States, contributing to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. UNU collaborates closely with other UN entities and leading research institutions worldwide, striving to effect positive global change through its research and educational initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Research Associate position at UNU-EHS focuses on advancing research in the areas of well-being and equity, particularly in relation to environmental hazards and climate change. The successful candidate will contribute to transformation research and theory building, supporting the development of research frameworks that align with the strategic approach of the Well-being and Equity division. This role involves engaging in innovative research topics, contributing to theory and policy development, and supporting the design and application of various research methodologies. Additionally, the candidate will assist in strategic engagement, proposal writing, and project acquisition, while also advancing their academic profile through the development of a PhD topic in consultation with supervisors. The position requires participation in doctoral training and the completion of research activities aligned with the division's goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Research Associate include:

• Contributing to transformation research and theory building on well-being and equity, including developing research frameworks and advancing innovative research topics.
• Supporting strategic engagement and proposal writing by coordinating activities, engaging stakeholders, and assisting in identifying funding opportunities.
• Advancing academic profile by identifying a PhD topic, developing related methodologies, and enrolling in the doctoral program.
• Identifying and screening funding opportunities, assisting in proposal preparation, and supporting communication with donors.
• Contributing to scholarly outputs, including scientific publications and presentations at conferences.
• Performing other duties as assigned by supervisors, ensuring timely and high-quality delivery of research activities and publications.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent in a scientific discipline relevant to the thematic areas of well-being and equity. They should have familiarity with concepts and frameworks in transformation, well-being, and equity research, as well as related multi-method approaches. Strong communication skills, both in academic writing and presenting research findings, are essential. The ability to work independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams is also required.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant scientific discipline is required for this position, qualifying the candidate for doctoral admission. The educational background should align with the thematic areas of well-being and equity, ensuring the candidate has the necessary foundation for advanced research.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of relevant professional or research experience. Candidates should have experience in transdisciplinary and international projects, as well as familiarity with Futures Literacy and creative methodologies. The ability to generate novel research ideas and think outside the box is highly valued, along with experience in writing project proposals and supporting multi-actor networks.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly German, is considered an asset. Familiarity with the language spoken in the location of the intended PhD project is also beneficial.

Additional Notes:
The successful candidate will be employed under a national Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) contract with UNU, which offers an attractive compensation package, including an annual net salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. Benefits include 30 days of annual leave and a health insurance scheme. The initial contract duration is one year, with the possibility of renewal based on performance. The position is open to applicants from all countries, and UNU will assist in securing a work visa for Germany if necessary. However, it is a locally recruited post, and no relocation allowances apply. The duty station is Bonn, Germany, with a starting date as soon as possible. Applications must be submitted by 23:59 CET on the deadline date, and late entries will not be accepted.