Join ESCAP as a Research Assistant! Drive Sustainable Development. 2024

Research Assistant!

June 24, 2024

5 minutes read

Join ESCAP as a Research Assistant! Drive Sustainable Development. 2024

Join ESCAP as a Research Assistant: Drive Sustainable Development in Asia-Pacific

The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) is seeking a motivated and dedicated Research Assistant to join the Sustainable Urban Development Section within the Environment and Development Division. This role is based in Bangkok and offers a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable and inclusive development in the Asian and Pacific region.

ESCAP’s mandate is 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 membership with policy-oriented research and analysis, normative support, technical assistance, and capacity building to respond to the development priorities and changing needs of the region. ESCAP’s work encompasses a broad range of areas, including economic development, social development, environmental sustainability, and regional integration.

The Environment and Development Division (EDD) within ESCAP assists developing countries in the region through providing advisory services, organizing capacity-building tools and activities, carrying out research and analysis, and supporting intergovernmental cooperation on environment and development in support of sustainable development. The division’s work is critical in helping member states achieve their sustainable development goals and improve the quality of life for their citizens.

Responsibilities:

As a Research Assistant in the Sustainable Urban Development Section, you will play a crucial role in supporting the division’s work. Your responsibilities will include:

1. Research and Analysis:

Conducting research and analysis on topics related to sustainable urban development, including urban planning, infrastructure development, housing, transportation, and environmental sustainability.
Assisting in the preparation of reports, briefing notes, and other documentation on sustainable urban development issues.
Collecting, analyzing, and presenting statistical data and other information gathered from diverse sources.
Participating in the development of technical papers and publications related to sustainable urban development.

2. Technical Assistance and Advisory Services:

Providing technical assistance to member states on issues related to sustainable urban development.
Assisting in the organization and implementation of technical cooperation projects and activities.
Supporting the preparation of project proposals, work plans, and budgets.
Assisting in the monitoring and evaluation of project implementation and outcomes.

3. Capacity Building:

Organizing and participating in capacity-building activities, including training workshops, seminars, and conferences.
Developing training materials and tools to support capacity-building efforts.
Collaborating with other UN agencies, international organizations, and development partners to enhance capacity-building efforts.

4. Intergovernmental Support:

Providing support to intergovernmental processes and meetings, including the preparation of documentation, reports, and meeting summaries.
Assisting in the organization of intergovernmental meetings, conferences, and other events.
Supporting the facilitation of dialogue and cooperation among member states on sustainable urban development issues.

5. Collaboration and Coordination:

Collaborating with colleagues within the Environment and Development Division and other divisions within ESCAP.
Working closely with external partners, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and academic institutions.
Participating in relevant networks and working groups to share knowledge and best practices on sustainable urban development.

6. Administrative Support:

Providing administrative support to the Sustainable Urban Development Section, including organizing meetings, preparing meeting agendas, and maintaining records.
Assisting in the preparation of financial and administrative reports.
Performing other duties as required.

Competencies:

To be successful in this role, you will need to demonstrate the following competencies:

1. Professionalism:

Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to conduct independent research and analysis on complex issues related to sustainable urban development.
Ability to apply technical knowledge to practical situations and provide sound advice to member states and other stakeholders.
Knowledge of urban planning, infrastructure development, housing, transportation, and environmental sustainability.
Ability to analyze and interpret data, identify trends and issues, and present findings in a clear and concise manner.

2. Communication:

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear and concise reports, briefing notes, and other documentation.
Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds.
Strong presentation skills, with the ability to deliver effective presentations and training sessions.

3. Teamwork:

Ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment, with a strong commitment to teamwork and collaboration.
Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders.
Willingness to share knowledge and information and support the professional development of colleagues.

4. Planning and Organizing:

Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.
Ability to plan and organize work effectively, meet deadlines, and deliver results.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with minimal supervision.

5. Technological Awareness:

Proficiency in relevant computer applications, including word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software.
Knowledge of data analysis and visualization tools and software.
Familiarity with online collaboration tools and platforms.

Education and Experience:

Education:

A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
Additional training or coursework in social affairs, sustainable development, urban planning, or related fields is an advantage.

Experience:

A minimum of seven years of experience in social affairs, sustainable development, urban planning, or related fields is required.
Experience within the United Nations or other international organizations is an advantage.
Experience in conducting research and analysis, preparing reports, and providing technical assistance and advisory services is essential.
Experience in organizing and participating in capacity-building activities, including training workshops, seminars, and conferences, is highly desirable.

Languages:

Required:

Fluency in English is required.

Desirable:

Knowledge of another UN official language is an asset.

Why Join ESCAP?

Working with ESCAP offers a rewarding opportunity to be part of a global effort to foster sustainable development. You will engage with a diverse team of professionals dedicated to making a positive impact on the region’s most pressing issues. This role provides ample room for personal and professional growth, with the chance to influence policy and drive meaningful change.

As a Research Assistant in the Sustainable Urban Development Section, you will have the opportunity to contribute to important initiatives that promote sustainable urban development in the Asian and Pacific region. You will work on projects that address critical issues such as urban planning, infrastructure development, housing, transportation, and environmental sustainability. Your work will help member states develop and implement policies and programs that promote sustainable and inclusive urban development, improve the quality of life for their citizens, and contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

You will also have the opportunity to work with a diverse group of colleagues from different backgrounds and disciplines, as well as with external partners, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and academic institutions. This collaboration will enhance your knowledge and skills, broaden your professional network, and provide you with valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the region.

In addition, working with ESCAP offers a unique opportunity to be part of a global organization that is committed to promoting sustainable development and regional connectivity. You will be part of a team that is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of people in the region, particularly those who are most vulnerable and marginalized. You will have the chance to contribute to important initiatives that promote social, economic, and environmental sustainability, and help create a better future for all.

Apply Now

If you are passionate about sustainable urban development and want to make a difference in the Asian and Pacific region, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. The deadline for applications is July 19, 2024.

Keywords:
ESCAP, United Nations, Research Assistant, Sustainable Development, Asia-Pacific, Policy-Oriented Research, Technical Assistance, Capacity Building, Sustainable Urban Development, Environment and Development, Bangkok, Career Opportunities, Job Opening.