Research Assistant

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Research Assistant
Location: Beirut
Country: Lebanon
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) was established in 1973 and is one of the five regional commissions of the United Nations. Its mission is to promote economic and social development in the Arab region through regional cooperation and integration. ESCWA works with member states to support their efforts in achieving sustainable development goals and enhancing the quality of life for their populations. The organization operates in various sectors including gender justice, population, and inclusive development, and has a workforce that includes experts from diverse fields. ESCWA is committed to addressing the challenges faced by the Arab region, particularly in areas such as disability inclusion, and collaborates with national governments and stakeholders to implement effective policies and programs.

Job Overview:
The Research Assistant position is crucial for supporting the Disability Team at ESCWA in its mission to promote disability inclusion across the Arab region. The individual in this role will be responsible for conducting high-quality research and analysis that will inform the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). This includes preparing reports, training materials, and background documents that will aid in mainstreaming disability inclusion into national policies and programs. The Research Assistant will also play a key role in organizing events such as workshops and meetings, ensuring that all activities are well-coordinated and documented. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying data and research gaps, and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders to develop solutions that enhance the participation of persons with disabilities in society.

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

• Providing substantive research support on topics related to disability inclusion, including reviewing existing literature and conducting desk research.
• Supporting the implementation of UNCRPD Articles and assisting in the operational aspects of disability inclusion in Arab countries.
• Preparing and reviewing written outputs such as background papers, technical papers, and sections of reports related to disability inclusion.
• Assisting in the preparation of presentation materials using appropriate technology and software.
• Drafting inputs for presentations and research papers.
• Organizing expert group meetings, conferences, and workshops, including the annual meeting of the Intersectional Group of Experts on Disability (IGED).
• Preparing minutes of meetings and performing a wide range of office support and administrative functions.
• Carrying out other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree in social science, economics, public policy, general law, or a related field. A minimum of four years of relevant experience in economics, public policy, or social science is required. Knowledge of disability inclusion is essential, and experience in the Arab region is highly desirable. Candidates must submit a copy of their educational degree as part of the application process, as incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as social science, economics, public policy, or general law. This foundational education is critical for understanding the complexities of disability inclusion and the socio-economic factors that affect it. Candidates must provide proof of their educational qualifications when applying for the position.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of professional experience in fields related to economics, public policy, or social science. This experience should ideally include work that relates to disability inclusion, demonstrating an understanding of the challenges and barriers faced by persons with disabilities in the Arab region. Relevant experience in the Arab context is considered an asset, as it provides valuable insights into local policies and practices.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Arabic is mandatory for this position, as these are the working languages of ESCWA. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in all four areas of language use: speaking, reading, writing, and understanding. Knowledge of French is considered desirable, as it can enhance communication within the United Nations system, where French is also a working language.

Additional Notes:
This position is recruited on a local basis, meaning that candidates must have the legal right to live and work in Lebanon. The contract duration is expected to be six months, and the position may involve full-time work. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the hiring process is transparent and accessible. Additionally, the organization does not request information regarding applicants’ bank accounts.