Head of the PACET Division

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organization within the United Nations System, established to engage in policy-relevant research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination. For over fifty years, UNU has been a source of impartial research on sustainability, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">human security, and economic development, with hundreds of researchers working across 12 countries. The organization aims to address pressing global issues and contribute to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, collaborating closely with other UN entities and leading research institutions worldwide. The UNU Vice-Rectorate in Europe (UNU-VIE), established in 2007 in Bonn, Germany, supports UNU's institutional development and fosters strategic partnerships, particularly with the Global South, while conducting research that reinforces UNU programming and key UN priorities.

Job Overview:
The Head of the PACET Division at UNU-VIE is responsible for managing the division, leading a team focused on improving livelihoods in the Global South through innovative research and strategic responses. The role involves developing a long-term strategy centered on agri-food systems innovation, green innovation, and educational technologies. The Head will also promote academic excellence, enhance the visibility of the division's work, and manage resource mobilization strategies. This position requires conducting frontier research, managing educational initiatives, and representing UNU in international policy processes, ensuring that the division's work aligns with UN priorities and contributes to sustainable development.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage the PACET Division by leading the team, planning work assignments, mentoring personnel, and overseeing day-to-day operations.
• Develop a long-term strategy focusing on agri-food systems innovation, green innovation, and educational technologies.
• Conduct research and disseminate findings to both academic and non-academic audiences.
• Manage resource mobilization strategies, ensuring compliance with governance standards and establishing partnerships with stakeholders.
• Conceptualize and manage e-learning activities and supervise students.
• Engage in international policy processes and represent UNU at conferences and events.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Vice-Rector.

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in environmental sciences, natural sciences, or a relevant field.
• At least five years of experience in environmental sciences or research management, preferably in an international environment.
• Experience in networking with research stakeholders and fundraising.
• Knowledge of administrative and financial management processes.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Experience working in Africa is an asset.
• Desirable skills include strong conceptual abilities, resilience, and excellent interpersonal skills.

Educational Background:
A Ph.D. in environmental sciences, natural sciences, or a related field is required for this position, ensuring that the candidate has the necessary academic foundation to lead research and manage the PACET Division effectively.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant working experience in environmental sciences or research management, with a preference for experience in international and multicultural settings. This experience should include networking with research stakeholders and involvement in fundraising activities.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while fluency in French is desired. Knowledge of an additional UN official working language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate in diverse environments.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time, fixed-term appointment with an initial duration of one year, subject to satisfactory performance. The position offers an attractive, tax-exempt compensation package, including an annual net salary, 30 days of annual leave, dependency benefits, a pension plan, and health insurance. The starting date for the position is set for August 24, 202

• The application deadline is June 20, 2025, with submissions required by 23:59 CET. The United Nations University is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all backgrounds, particularly from women and candidates from developing countries.