UN Associate Data Scientist

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Office of the Secretary (OS) of the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB), which is part of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The UNODC was established to assist Member States in their struggle against illicit drugs and international crime. The organization operates globally, with a mission to promote justice and the rule of law, and to support the implementation of international drug control treaties. The INCB specifically focuses on monitoring the implementation of these treaties and ensuring that the availability of controlled substances for medical and scientific purposes is not compromised. The UNODC has a diverse workforce and is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that values diversity and promotes gender equality. The organization has a significant presence in various countries, working collaboratively with governments and other stakeholders to address drug-related issues and crime.

Job Overview:
The UN Associate scientist" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Data Scientist will play a crucial role in the exploration, identification, and acquisition of data sources that are essential for decision-making processes within the organization. The incumbent will be responsible for applying quality methods to structure, clean, format, parse, and standardize data for analytical use. This position requires the design and development of data science products that reveal insights and enhance understanding of complex data sets through advanced analytical methods, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and predictive analytics. The role also involves maintaining databases and data systems, implementing data collection systems, and optimizing statistical efficiency and quality. The Associate Data Scientist will track and report on progress regarding data initiatives and contribute to the development of customized visualization and presentation products for various stakeholders, including the Board, clients, and international partners. Additionally, the incumbent will assist in promoting the use of data science solutions through client training and the development of tools and processes that extend the capabilities of client offices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the UN Associate Data Scientist include:

• Assisting in the exploration and acquisition of data sources to evaluate their suitability for decision-making.
• Structuring, cleaning, formatting, parsing, and standardizing data for analytical purposes.
• Designing and developing data science products to extract insights from data using advanced analytical methods.
• Acquiring and cleaning data from primary and secondary sources while maintaining databases and data systems.
• Implementing databases, data collection systems, and data analytics strategies to enhance statistical efficiency and quality.
• Identifying and analyzing trends or patterns in data using machine learning techniques and statistical methods.
• Developing corporate visualization solutions to present findings effectively.
• Tracking and reporting on departmental data initiatives and progress.
• Creating customized visualization and presentation products for various stakeholders. 1
• Promoting data science solutions through training and development of tools for client offices. 1
• Performing other work-related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a strong foundation in data analysis, statistical methods, and computational techniques. Candidates must demonstrate knowledge of the data analysis life cycle, including data ingestion, wrangling, analysis, and visualization. Familiarity with machine learning algorithms, statistical methods, and data visualization tools is essential. The ideal candidate should possess a commitment to professionalism, teamwork, and technological awareness, demonstrating the ability to work collaboratively and adapt to new technologies. Additionally, candidates should show a strong understanding of gender perspectives and the importance of equal participation in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in data science, computer science, analytics, mathematics, statistics, engineering, information management, or a related discipline. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Candidates with a first-level university degree and no experience may be considered if they have passed the Young Professionals Programme Examination (YPP), United Nations National Competitive Recruitment Examination (NCRE), or the General Service to Professional Examination (G to P).

Experience:
A minimum of two years of work experience in data analytics, data science, business intelligence, or statistical analysis is required. Candidates should have experience in developing machine learning algorithms and using data to support decision-making and strategic planning. Desirable experience includes working with self-service analytics, data visualization dashboard development, and managing data from multiple sources. Experience in delivering technology analytics or data science training to law enforcement officers, particularly in developing countries, is also advantageous. Familiarity with the United Nations system or similar international organizations is preferred.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, and proficiency in French is considered an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is funded from extra budgetary resources, and the initial appointment will be for a period of one year, subject to funding availability. The extension of the appointment will depend on the availability of funds. Staff members are expected to adhere to the authority of the Secretary-General and may be assigned to various functions throughout their careers. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and encourages female candidates to apply. The position is classified as a family duty station in Vienna, which is categorized under the H category.