Consultant: Researcher, Multilateralism and Global Governance

About UN University (UNU) 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 more information, visit United Nations University Centre for Policy Research (UNU-CPR) UNU-CPR is one of 13 research and training institutes that comprise the think tanks in the UNU system. UNU-CPR headquarters are in New York with an office in Geneva, Switzerland. The core mission is to produce policy-focused research and thought leadership on issues of strategic importance to the United Nations and its Member States. Project: Global Governance Innovation Platform (GGI) Project Description: The GGI platform is a multi‑year initiative created to help UN Member States design new multilateral mechanisms that can help address pressing global challenges—from chronic underdevelopment to new planetary risks. It documents and shares practical examples of institutional innovation in global governance, drawing on 80 years of multilateral cooperation to surface models relevant to the design of new global institutions. The centerpiece is a dynamic digital platform featuring data visualizations, case studies, and historical analysis designed to help Member States and stakeholders navigate the complex task of institution‑building. Responsibilities 1. Research and Data Gathering Develop and propose research topics of relevance to the GGI project and its stakeholders. Identify priority policy processes and intergovernmental negotiations, as well as institutions, and Member States that will benefit from the GGI research. Contribute new case studies to the GGI project. Validate case study data with GGI partners. Develop media assessments by carrying out interviews relevant to GGI research. Support implementation of the project in line with donor priorities. 2. Publications and other outputs Author long‑form thematic research reports, policy briefs, and short‑form media outputs on select GGI themes. Commission expert policy briefs on priority GGI topics in line with donor priorities. Develop training materials related to GGI for use in online courses. 3. Public engagement and partnerships Develop a clear engagement strategy, prioritising Member State engagement on GGI research themes. Serve as an expert contributor on high‑level panels, expert roundtables, and in the media. Identify experts and regional partners that help advance GGI’s reach and expand project beneficiaries. 4. Team Engagement: Oversight of fellows, consultants, and interns Support the recruitment and supervision of experts, fellows, consultants, and interns as appropriate. Liaise with UNU‑CPR Communications and technical teams to ensure the regular development of GGI media and outreach materials and incremental development of the GGI platform. 5. Management Support: Administrative and corporate duties Support the UNU‑CPR Director and administrative/management personnel as required to ensure sound and effective management and administration of the project. 6. Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor. Key Performance Indicators Timely and quality implementation of the GGI project. Quality and level of engagement with partners and policy stakeholders within and outside the UN System. Quality and extent of research output. Regular and clear updates on research and activities progress. Competencies 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. Education and Certification A PhD in a relevant academic discipline is strongly preferred but may be substituted by an advanced degree and a strong publication record and professional experience in a relevant field, including but not limited to economics, law, political science, international relations, international development, or public policy. Required Skills and Experience Extensive knowledge of the United Nations, its principal agencies and bodies as well as programmes and operations in your area of thematic expertise, ideally covering one or more of the following themes: international cooperation and development, economics, human rights, international public policy and management, global governance. Familiarity with and, ideally, experience of UN‑Member State dynamics and inter‑governmental processes. A minimum of 5 years of relevant policy research experience, or a combination of professional and research experience. Exceptional drafting ability and experience drafting/editing academic reports and shorter communications, including experience translating research for policy communities. Excellent analytical and presentation skills. Experience in convening and hosting high‑level events. Data visualization experience would be an advantage. Self‑direction and the ability to establish priorities, multitask and report work activities to management in a timely and proactive manner, and work within tight timelines. Solid interpersonal and problem‑solving skills demonstrated by the ability to work in a multicultural environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity and gender parity. Comfort with a range of research methodologies and data analysis methods. Language Requirements Professional level Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of another UN official working language is an asset. Duration The successful candidate will be retained under a Consultant Contract (CTC) for sixteen (16) months. Remuneration USD 110,004 per year, paid monthly at the rate of USD9,167. Additionally, a lump sum of USD12,000 to contribute to health insurance costs over the 16‑month duration of the contract, paid in intervals. Travel Considerations Should “mission travel” be required, UNU will pay for travel. However, this will be subject to the following prerequisites: Medical Clearance, Security Clearance through the Travel Request Information Process (TRIP) system, completion of the BSAFE online course, travel Visa, and liability waiver. Travel cost will be calculated based on economy class travel, regardless of the length of travel. Costs for accommodation, meals and incidentals must not exceed applicable daily subsistence allowance (DSA) rates, as promulgated by the International Civil Service Commission (ICSC). Expected Start Date By 1 September 2026, with an August start possible. Special Notice UNU can sponsor a G-4 visa for this position. Consultants do not hold international civil servant status, nor are they considered a “staff member” as defined in the United Nations Staff Rules and Regulations. 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. Applications from developing countries, and from women are strongly encouraged. 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr UNU