[Jobs] Research Coordinator - UNRISD

[Leora Lawton]

Please circulate widely. Apologies for cross-postings.

The United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD)
is an autonomous research institute within the UN system that
undertakes multidisciplinary research and policy analysis on the
social dimensions of contemporary development issues. Through our
work, we aim to ensure that social equity, inclusion and justice are
central to development thinking, policy and practice.

UNRISD seeks an outstanding researcher in the field of gender and
development to coordinate its programme of work in this area.

UNRISD has long been recognized for its high-quality research on
gender and development. Its research has had significant influence on
academic debates in the field, and is widely used within the UN,
policy making and advocacy communities. Within the context of the
institute’s overall research agenda, which focuses on the social
dimensions of economic and sustainable development, the Gender
Programme addresses the gendered content and impacts of economic and
social policies and processes, the gendered politics of policy making,
including the role of women’s movements and organizations, and gender
and sustainable development.

The Research Coordinator will join a small team committed to producing
high-quality research that contributes to the realization of equity
and social justice. Building on prior and ongoing research, s/he will
lead the development of new research projects, identifying critical
areas of concern for the UN system within the framework of the overall
research strategy of the Institute. (Visit www.unrisd.org for
details.)

The ideal candidate will have proven experience in conceptualizing,
developing and implementing research programmes, with field research
experience in developing countries. S/he will have a record of
high-quality research outputs and experience in communicating research
to diverse audiences, particularly in policy communities. S/he should
be familiar with UNRISD research; some knowledge of the UN system
would be an advantage.

Functions: Under the general supervision of the Director of UNRISD,
the Research Coordinator will be responsible for the following tasks.

Conceptualize, develop and manage the Institute’s research programme
in the area of Gender and Development, ensuring its integration within
the Institute’s overall institutional strategy and research agenda.
Act as the focal point for UNRISD in its engagement with the UN system
on gender-related issues.
Design and manage research programmes, including identification of
research partners, organization of meetings and conferences;
supervision of staff and consultants involved in the projects; and
ensuring the quality of outputs produced.
Produce high-quality publications, including articles in peer-reviewed
journals and edited volumes; policy briefs and other outputs for a
range of audiences
Contribute to fundraising activities for the research programme, and
assist in the fundraising activities of the Institute.
Contribute to Institute-wide flagship publications, research
programmes and special activities.
Build and maintain regular contacts within the United Nations system,
governments, multilateral donors and the international research
community.
Based on UNRISD research, provide policy advice and technical
assistance to United Nations departments and agencies, national and
local policy makers, civil society organizations, academic or other
institutions.
Represent UNRISD in international meetings and academic conferences.
Periodically report on progress to the Director, the UNRISD Board and donors.
Carry out other activities as agreed within the Institute or assigned
by the Director.


Work implies frequent interaction with the following: Counterparts,
senior officers and technical staff in relevant Secretariat units and
in UN funds, programmes and specialized agencies. Representatives and
officials in national governments, other international organizations,
civil society organizations, academic networks and consultants.

Results expected: Develops, implements, monitors and evaluates
assigned research programme/projects. Provides thorough, well-reasoned
written contributions, e.g., background papers, analysis, sections of
reports and studies, inputs to publications, etc. Develops and
maintains effective working relationships with researchers in UNRISD
networks and staff. Contributes to internal discussions and debates on
development issues and UNRISD research strategy. Provides inputs to
enhance communications and outreach.

Competencies:

Professionalism: Demonstrates professional competence as a researcher
in the field of gender and development.
Communication: Excellent oral communication and writing skills.
Ability to communicate effectively with different target audiences
regarding substantive issues.
Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve
organizational and project goals. Builds consensus for project
objectives with colleagues.
Leadership: Takes intellectual leadership in substantive areas of work
and demonstrates good management skills.
Judgement/Decision-Making: Identifies critical issues for research
relevant to the work of the UN; develops appropriate research methods
and analyses data, drawing policy recommendations in accordance with
the norms and objectives of the United Nations.


Qualifications:
Education: A Master’s Degree in social science, with a focus on gender
and development. A PhD is strongly desirable.
Experience:

A minimum of five years of experience in development research at an
academic or research institution. Up to two years research towards a
PhD can be recognized as relevant experience.
A proven publication record in the field of gender and development,
and expertise in at least one of the priority areas of interest to the
Institute.
Research experience in developing countries.
Experience in fundraising for research projects, and in the management
and supervision of projects.


Languages:

Fluent English with proven writing and editing skills; ability to work
in other UN languages highly desirable.


Application process:

Candidates from developing countries are particularly encouraged to apply.
If you are interested in the work elaborated above and fulfil the
required qualifications, please apply online by clicking the button
below.
Please use the “Motivation” section of the online application form for
your cover letter.
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted by end-October.
Due to limited staff resources only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.


Closing date: 13 October 2013 (Midnight, Central European Time)




-- 
Leora Lawton PhD
Executive Director
Berkeley Population Center
350K Barrows Hall
(of) 510-643-1270
(m) 510-928-7572
www.popcenter.berkeley.edu