UN Careers
Exciting Opportunity: Research Assistant Vacancy Available at United Nations (UN) for November 2024

Exciting Opportunity: Research Assistant Vacancy Available at United Nations (UN) for November 2024
- Job Opening ID: 244798
- Job Network : Economic, Social and Development
- Job Family : Social Affairs
- Category and Level : General Service and Related Categories, G-6
- Duty Station : NEW YORK
- Department/Office : Department of Economic and Social Affairs
- Date Posted : Oct 14, 2024
- Deadline : Nov 12, 2024
Organizational Setting and Reporting
This UN position is located in the Digital Government Branch (DGB) of the Division for Public Institutions and Digital Government (DPIDG), Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA). The Research Assistant will report to the Senior Governance and Public Administration Officer of DGB. DPIDG focuses on supporting countries in improving effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels for internationally agreed development goals, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Responsibilities
Within delegated authority, the research assistant will be responsible for the following duties:
- Assists in identifying and monitoring substantive aspects of the work of the unit in various regions/countries. Selects and evaluates a variety of documents, summarizes pertinent material, collects and analyses data, and prepares background materials for assessment papers, studies, briefs, and reports.
- Develops and maintains reference/resource information related to the United Nations EGovernment Survey, the implementation of the World Summit on the Information Society, and other digital/internet governance-related publications and projects administered by the branch.
- Collects, analyses, summarizes, and presents information/data, such as the status of coordination, to track responses/contributions and compliances from countries, UN agencies, regional commissions, etc. for reference and information for the chief and officers of the branch.
- Systematically tracks GA agenda items, resolutions, and other legislative decisions that affect program content and changes enacted by legislation (especially from the 2nd Committees and other intergovernmental bodies) relevant to the Branch; participates in meetings and seminars when necessary to follow discussions; monitors follow-up activities and outcomes, summarizing noteworthy issues.
- Participates in the substantive and policy discussions of the unit.
- Maintains and expands contacts with other departments in the Secretariat, as well as the UN agencies and programs and other organizations relevant to the region, and coordinates the input of other departments in the collection of data for assignments received.
- Prepares, maintains, and updates files (electronic and paper) and internal databases; designs and generates a variety of periodic and ad hoc reports, statistical tables, charts, graphs, and other background materials/notes to facilitate inspection and other reviews.
- Drafts program/project summaries, coordinates review and clearance processes, and coordinates with editors, translation services, etc., on finalization and publication of reports in multiple languages.
- Identifies the organizational requirements for conferences and meetings and assists in the preparation of documentation and reports for these meetings.
- Attends a variety of meetings to follow discussions, takes notes and prepares summary reports, notes for the file, correspondence, etc.
- Provides guidance and training to new/junior staff.
- Performs other related work as required.
Competencies
- PROFESSIONALISM: Knowledge of research methodologies, data collection, and maintenance. Ability to identify, extract, analyze, and format data from a wide variety of standard and non-standard sources. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines, and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.
- Communication: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others, and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style, and format to match the audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.
- PLANNING & ORGANIZING: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates an appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.
Education
- A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
Work Experience
- A minimum of seven (7) years of experience in collecting and researching data across various areas of social and economic development or related areas is required.
- The minimum years of relevant experience are reduced to five (5) years for candidates who possess a first-level university degree or higher.
- Experience in digital government and related areas is desirable. Experience in data visualization is desirable.