National Research Expert

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Position Title: National Research Expert
Location: Yaoundé
Country: Cameroon
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) was established in 1997 with the mission to contribute to global peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, human rights, and development by making the world safer from drugs, crime, corruption, and terrorism. UNODC operates in more than 80 countries worldwide, supported by a network of 115 field offices and liaison offices in New York and Brussels, employing approximately 2,400 personnel globally. The organization works closely with Member States to promote justice and the rule of law, aiming to build resilient societies.

Job Overview:
The National Research Expert will be a key member of the Research and Awareness Unit within UNODC, focusing on a project aimed at addressing trafficking in medical products in Central Africa. This role involves developing, organizing, implementing, and evaluating activities related to this project. The expert will be responsible for conducting research, collecting and analyzing data, and coordinating with various stakeholders, including law enforcement and health authorities. The position requires a proactive approach to enhance the capacity of project stakeholders in data production related to drugs and crime, particularly in the context of medical product trafficking. The expert will also engage in volunteerism activities, promoting the UN Volunteers programme and integrating its mandate into their work.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Research Expert will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Organizing and supporting training activities by coordinating national and regional workshops aimed at enhancing the capacity of stakeholders in data production related to drugs and crime.
• Conducting fact-finding missions and research interviews to gather information on medical product trafficking in Cameroon and neighboring countries.
• Collecting and centralizing data and official documents from various authorities, ensuring they are organized in research databases.
• Participating in needs assessments to evaluate the capacities of national and regional structures involved in combating drugs and crime.
• Establishing and monitoring networks of focal points and coordination committees at the national level to strengthen data production efforts.
• Liaising with key stakeholders, ensuring effective communication and coordination of data collection and sharing efforts.
• Contributing to the drafting of activity reports and ensuring documentation of project progress and results.
• Integrating a gender perspective into all project components and ensuring adherence to the Age, Gender, and Diversity (AGD) principles throughout the assignment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to teamwork and respect for diversity. They should possess excellent organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects efficiently. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential, as well as the ability to adapt to changing environments and work under pressure. A genuine commitment to the principles of voluntary engagement and the UNODC mission is also required.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this position, typically requiring a degree in social sciences, public health, law, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in research methodologies or data analysis would be advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of several years of relevant experience in research, data collection, and analysis, particularly in the fields of drugs, crime, or public health. Experience working with international organizations or in a volunteer capacity would be beneficial, as well as familiarity with the local context in Cameroon and the surrounding region.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is mandatory, as these are the primary languages of communication within the UNODC and the region. Knowledge of additional local languages would be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UN Volunteer assignment based in Yaoundé, Cameroon. The volunteer will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The contract duration is subject to availability of funding and satisfactory performance, with no expectation of renewal. The position includes a monthly living allowance to cover housing and living expenses, as well as life, health, and disability insurance. Additional benefits include a Settling-In-Grant if applicable and a monthly Expertise Differential for national UN Expert Volunteers.