The United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organization within the United Nations System. UNU engages in policy-relevant research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination in furtherance of the purposes and principles of the United Nations. The work of UNU contributes to solving pressing global problems that are the concern of the United Nations and its Member States.
For the past five decades, UNU has been a source of impartial research on sustainability, human security, and economic development. With hundreds of researchers working at institutes in 12 countries, UNU's expertise spans the full breadth of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, generating policy-relevant knowledge to effect positive global change. UNU collaborates closely with other UN entities and leading research institutions across the globe. For more information, please visit http://unu.edu
This position, based in New York, reports to two UNU institutes: United Nations University Centre for Policy Research (UNU-CPR) and United Nations University World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER), which are among the 14 research and training Institutes that comprise the think tanks in the UNU system.
United Nations University Centre for Policy Research (UNU-CPR)
UNU-CPR’s core mission is to produce policy-focused research and thought leadership on issues of strategic interest and importance to the United Nations and its Member States. The Centre prioritizes urgent policy needs requiring innovative, practical solutions for immediate implementation. The Centre’s work also contributes to the long-term resilience of the multilateral system through dialogue, research, strategic convenings, and policy coordination. More information about its work is available at: https://unu.edu/cpr
United Nations University World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER)
UNU-WIDER is a leading international development economics think tank. The Institute provides economic analysis and policy advice with the aim of promoting sustainable and equitable development for all. The Institute began operations in 1985 in Helsinki, Finland, as the first research centre of the United Nations University. Today, it is a unique blend of think tank, research institute, and UN agency — providing a range of services from policy advice to governments, as well as freely available original research. More information on UNU-WIDER and its current work programme are available at www.wider.unu.edu
This position will be based in New York and will provide research support for projects in both UNU-WIDER and UNU-CPR, reporting to the Director or their designated representative. Occasional travel to UNU-WIDER in Helsinki may be required.
1. Research and writing
Conduct empirical research through literature reviews, expert interviews, qualitative and quantitative analysis, and other analysis of other sources. Research will focus on multilateralism and new trends in international cooperation, including innovations in global governance; as well as a specific focus on economic governance and the international financial architecture
Produce first drafts of high-quality policy reports, technical notes and publications, identifying the implications for the multilateral system and options for policymakers
Support the finalization and publication of UNU-CPR and UNU-WIDER research products.
2. Coordination and representation
Attend thematic briefings, relevant policy processes and other relevant events online and in person and produce short summaries focusing on meaningful developments, Member State positions, and policy entry points
Engage with UN offices, agencies, and funds and programmes, member states and experts in relation to global governance and economic governance reforms and initiatives
Support the organisation of workshops and other events showcasing important themes in global governance innovation and economic governance.
3. Strategic planning and project development
Assist with developing content for social media posts and dissemination of research
Identify key questions in emerging global governance
Support the development of fundraising materials, reporting and preparation of meetings.
4. Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.
Timely and high-quality research, reporting and writing
Professional engagement with partners and stakeholders
Regular and clear updates on research and activities progress
Values:
Inclusion — take action to create an environment of dignity and respect for all, regardless of age, culture, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, geography, grade, language, nationality, racial identity, religion, sex, sex characteristics, sexual orientation, social origin or any other aspect of identity
Integrity — act ethically, demonstrating the standards of conduct of the United Nations and taking prompt action in case of witnessing unprofessional or unethical behaviour, or any other breach of UN standards
Humility — demonstrate self-awareness and willingness to learn from others
Humanity — act according to the purposes of the United Nations: peace, dignity and equality on a healthy planet
Behaviours:
Connect and collaborate — build positive relationships with others to advance the work of the United Nations and work coherently as One UN
Analyse and plan — seek out and use data from a wide range of sources to understand problems, inform decision-making, propose evidence-based solutions and plan action
Deliver results with positive impact — hold oneself and others accountable for delivering results and making a positive difference to the people and causes that the United Nations serves
Learn and develop — pursue own learning and development and contribute to the learning and development of others
Adapt and innovate — demonstrate flexibility, agility and the ability to think and act in novel ways
1) Education and certification
Master's degree or equivalent in Public Policy, International Affairs, Economics, Political Science or other relevant social sciences
2) Required skills and experience
At least two years of progressively responsible experience in research and writing is required, preferably on relevant matters to this position including economic governance, global governance, and international financial architecture policy development
Knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods
Experience in drafting complex reports and tracking and reporting on intergovernmental or similar processes is required
Experience with stakeholder engagement and event organization is required
Excellent team player with strong interpersonal skills and ability to work independently in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity
International experience and readiness to travel internationally.
3) Language Requirements:
Excellent drafting skills and fluency in both oral and written English
Knowledge of another UN official working language is an asset
The successful candidate will be employed under a PSA contract. UNU offers an attractive compensation package including an annual net salary in the range of USD 60,000 - USD63,304, commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the candidate. Benefits include 30 days annual leave and a health insurance scheme.
UNU is not liable for any taxes that may be levied on the remuneration you receive under this contract. Payment of any such taxes remains the sole responsibility of PSA holders.
The duration of the initial contract is 6 months. This is Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) contract with UNU, with the possibility for renewal subject to requirements and satisfactory work performance. The combined duration on a PSA contract with UNU may not exceed six (6) years. The mandatory age of retirement for PSA holders is 65 years.
Early December 2025
To apply to UNU, you will not need an account. Instead, we ask that you:
Apply via the apply link;
fill out the UNU P11 Form (please avoid using similar forms provided by other United Nations organisations);
provide a motivation statement (in the P11 form); and
answer a few questions that are tailored to the position.
You may wish to refer to the UN Values and Behaviours Framework for more information.
12 November 2025
Submissions must be received by 12pm NY time on the deadline; late entries will not be accepted.
Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by a competency-based interview, background checks, and references.
PSA holders are neither “staff members” under the Staff Regulations and Rules of the United Nations nor “officials” for the purpose of the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations (1946). They are subject to the Rector's authority and may be assigned to any of the activities or offices of the United Nations University. The Rector reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a level below that advertised. UNU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities to apply and become part of the organisation. Applications from developing countries, and from women are strongly encouraged. Eligible internal applicants are also encouraged to apply. UNU has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNU, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination. If you have supervisory function, you need to have awareness on gender related issues.
UNU reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement. We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNU at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.
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