Adjunct Professor/ Researchers

Adjunct Professor/ Researchers

United Nations University (UNU)

May 14, 2025June 28, 2025DresdenGermany
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations University (UNU) is an international community of scholars dedicated to policy-oriented research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination to further the principles of the United Nations Charter. Established over four decades ago, UNU has become a leading think tank for impartial research on critical global issues such as human survival, conflict prevention, sustainable development, and welfare. With a workforce of more than 400 researchers across 12 countries, UNU's initiatives encompass the full spectrum of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, generating policy-relevant knowledge aimed at fostering positive global change. The organization maintains over 200 collaborations with UN agencies, universities, and research institutions worldwide, reflecting its commitment to addressing pressing global challenges. For more information, please visit http://unu.edu. UNU-FLORES, a branch of UNU, focuses on developing strategies for the sustainable use and integrated management of environmental resources, including water, soil, waste, and energy, particularly in developing and emerging economies. Based in Dresden, Germany, UNU-FLORES engages in research, capacity development, postgraduate education, advanced training, and knowledge dissemination to promote the Resource Nexus, which is crucial for sustainable development. More details can be found at https://flores.unu.edu/.

Job Overview:
UNU-FLORES is seeking applications from motivated and committed local and international academics and experts with relevant experience in integrated management of environmental resources for short-term assignments/projects related to the Resource Nexus. Candidates will be considered for the UNU-FLORES roster, allowing for rapid availability and an expedited contractual process. Those selected as Professors will hold the title of Adjunct Professor, while others will be designated as Adjunct Researchers. This position is based on an unpaid Academic Affiliation Agreement (AAA), which provides access to UNU resources, connections to the UN system, and opportunities for joint research projects, publications, and outreach activities. Successful candidates may also have the chance to complete specific deliverables that are compensated separately from the AAA. The collaboration terms will be shared once candidates are selected from the roster for suitable opportunities in the future.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The successful candidate will work under the authority and supervision of the Director of UNU-FLORES and collaborate closely with the academic team at the Institute. Responsibilities include: conducting research activities and fostering innovation in the Resource Nexus field; engaging in budget funding and fundraising activities; publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals, books, and policy briefs; providing policy analysis and advice on capacity development and governance issues related to integrated resource management; participating in UNU-FLORES events such as lecture series and institutional meetings; enhancing UNU-FLORES' research capabilities, expanding partnerships, and increasing visibility and impact; and contributing to other activities aligned with UNU-FLORES' mission to advance the Resource Nexus for environmental resources of concern to the UN and its Member States, particularly in developing and emerging economies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD related to the integrated management of environmental resources and have a minimum of five years of post-PhD research experience. A proven track record of research publications in areas related to integrated resources management is essential. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in English, both oral and written, with knowledge of German being highly beneficial. The ideal candidate will be highly self-motivated, innovative, organized, and detail-oriented, with a professional attitude and the ability to prioritize independently. Strong planning, organization, and time management skills are required, along with the ability to communicate clearly and efficiently. Flexibility and the ability to establish priorities within prescribed timeframes are crucial, as is being an excellent team player with strong interpersonal skills, capable of working in a multicultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.

Educational Background:
A PhD in a relevant field related to the integrated management of environmental resources is required for this position. This advanced degree should provide a solid foundation in the principles and practices of environmental resource management, equipping candidates with the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to contribute effectively to UNU-FLORES' mission.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of post-PhD research experience. This experience should ideally be in areas directly related to integrated resource management, demonstrating a strong understanding of the complexities and challenges associated with sustainable environmental practices. A history of successful research projects, publications, and collaborations in relevant fields will be highly regarded.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNU. Knowledge of German is considered highly beneficial and may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with local stakeholders and resources effectively. Familiarity with other languages relevant to the UNU's work may also be advantageous.

Additional Notes:
The successful candidate will be engaged under an Academic Affiliation Agreement (AAA) or Consultant Contract (CTC). The AAA is initially for a period of up to 12 months, with the possibility of extension. The CTC may also be for an initial period of up to 12 months. It is important to note that consultants engaged by UNU may not provide services for longer than twenty-four (24) months within a thirty-six (36) month period. For AAA, no compensation is provided for activities under the agreement, while consultancy contracts will offer payment based on the completion of specified deliverables, with remuneration commensurate with the candidate's qualifications and experience. Employment on a CTC contract for former UNU staff members receiving a pension from the United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund is subject to restrictions. UNU is not liable for any taxes levied on remuneration received under this contract, and payment of such taxes is the contractor's responsibility. Additionally, UNU-FLORES does not cover health insurance arrangements, and these contracts do not entitle candidates to annual or sick leave. If mission travel is required, UNU will cover applicable travel costs, subject to prerequisites such as medical and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security-clearance" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security clearance, completion of the BSAFE online course, travel visa, and liability waiver, all at the consultant's expense. Travel costs will be calculated based on economy class travel, and accommodation, meals, and incidentals must adhere to applicable daily subsistence allowance rates as promulgated by the International Civil Service Commission.
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