Research Assistant

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Research Assistant
Location: Bangkok
Country: Thailand
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) was established to promote sustainable and inclusive development and regional connectivity in the Asian and Pacific region. As a regional development arm of the United Nations Secretariat, ESCAP supports its member states through policy-oriented research, analysis, normative support, technical assistance, and capacity building. The organization aims to respond to the development priorities and changing needs of the region, and it operates in multiple countries across Asia and the Pacific, engaging with various stakeholders to foster collaboration and development.

Job Overview:
The Research Assistant position is situated within the Transport Research and Policy Section of the Transport Division at ESCAP. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the Chief of the Transport Research and Policy Section and will be responsible for conducting research and compiling data related to electric mobility and just transition in Thailand. This role involves monitoring developments in the field, analyzing data from various sources, and preparing reports and presentations for senior officers. The Research Assistant will also assist in office management and provide administrative support, ensuring that the project and section's objectives are met efficiently. The position requires a proactive approach to data collection and analysis, as well as effective communication skills to disseminate information to various stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Research Assistant include: researching and compiling technical data related to electric mobility; monitoring developments in the field; assembling statistical material and adjusting data from various sources; evaluating data sets for accuracy; preparing reports, presentations, and visual materials; drafting executive summaries of meetings; organizing and disseminating relevant information; coordinating press briefings and public awareness campaigns; providing administrative support and guidance to junior staff; assisting with data analysis and presentations; and performing other related tasks as required to support the project and section's work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. A first-level university degree may be accepted in lieu of two years of required experience. The position requires a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in data collection and research in social and economic development or a related area. Experience in data analytics and administrative support for project implementation is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and effective communication skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively in a diverse environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a high school diploma or equivalent. A first-level university degree may substitute for two years of required experience, indicating that candidates with higher education may be considered favorably. The emphasis is on relevant experience in data research and analysis, particularly in social and economic contexts.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in collecting and researching data across various areas of social and economic development. If the candidate holds a first-level university degree, a minimum of three years of experience is acceptable. Additionally, at least one year of experience in data analytics or a related area is desirable, along with experience in providing administrative and logistic support for project implementation.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of Thai is desirable, and proficiency in another UN official language is considered an advantage. This linguistic requirement emphasizes the need for effective communication within the diverse environment of the United Nations.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that applicants must be authorized to work in Thailand. The role is temporary, funded from extra budgetary resources, and will initially be available for 4.5 months. If selected, internal candidates will be on temporary assignment, while external candidates will receive a temporary appointment. Extensions of the appointment are contingent upon satisfactory performance and the continued availability of the position. The United Nations is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, or background. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request.