The Research Specialist position plays a vital role in planning and monitoring the current and future Core Research Programmes and in developing a strong policy-relevant research culture at UNU-EGOV. The selected candidate will contribute to the growth of the network of stakeholders and partnerships for the development of the UNU-EGOV project portfolio. The UNU-EGOV has been strengthening its connections with the Global South, namely with the African countries, and aims to extend collaborations to other countries in the region.
Responsibilities:
Under the overall guidance and supervision of the Director of UNU-EGOV, the Research Specialist ensures the execution of the following attributions:
Overseeing policy-relevant research in the field of Electronic Governance (EGOV):
Lead the development, monitoring, and assessment of the UNU-EGOV Core Research Programme;
Conduct high-quality research that serves as an example of academic excellence;
Publish key publication research results in leading peer-reviewed journals and conferences;
Coordinate the work of research personnel;
Strive for policy impact of UNU-EGOV research in the UN system, at international, regional, and national levels;
Ensure the highest level of integrity and ethics in the EGOV research.
Reviewing and ensuring high-quality policy instruments:
Monitor the implementation of the research projects to identify relevant policies and policy-oriented recommendations;
Coordinate the translation of research findings into policies;
Provide guidance on the establishment of a strategy to increase the dissemination/visibility and adoption of the policy instruments by key stakeholders to ensure their maximum impact at UN, regional and national levels.
Developing research and capacity-building projects:
Foster research and capacity-building project proposals and build project consortia;
Provide critical reviews of research proposals and grant applications;
Seek to secure research funds and lead the research teams to conduct the respective research, consulting and training projects;
Represent UNU-EGOV in R&D consortia and networks.
Coordinating and taking high-level responsibilities in the organization of UNU-EGOV conferences, workshops, capacity-building programmes, and other relevant events:
Coordinate the scientific activities and planning of events, giving the team responsibilities, and monitoring their completion;
Assist in the communication plan and dissemination activities related to the events;
Carry out teaching, training, and supervision within the capacity-building programs;
Representing UNU-EGOV in relevant research and policy events and networks:
Communicate research and project accomplishments at scientific meetings and international fora, and through publications;
Engage academic and professional networks to raise the visibility of the UNU-EGOV.
Supporting the Director of UNU-EGOV in institutional development activities:
Assist the Director with its visions and research directions in the next years and with the organizational change process;
Produce research and management reports as relevant;
Help in the fundraising efforts of UNU-EGOV;
Assist in developing the project portfolio of UNU-EGOV;
Help to improve the organization and internal structure within EGOV;
Help in creating a network of contacts from different fields that will strengthen the research work in EGOV.
Perform other duties assigned by the Director.
Qualifications:
Education and certification:
Completed doctoral degree (Phd) in Informatics, Information Systems, Public Administration, Public Policy, Development Management, Economics, Communication Sciences, Sociology, Law or a related discipline.
Experience Required:
At least 10 years (after Phd) progressively responsible experience in conducting research, teaching, consulting and programme development in academic, think-tank or international organizations, in areas related to EGOV’s areas of work such as digital transformation, modernization and innovation of governments and public institutions.
Internationally recognized academic record in some of the research domains core to UNU-EGOV.
Evidence of project/programme development and management.
Knowledge of, and familiarity with, funding sources and proven ability to raise external funds.
Desirable:
Experience in academic and/or professional supervision.
Experience in drafting and presenting complex reports, communications, and presentations;
A proven ability to work flexibly on a range of assignments, adjust to changes in schedule and priorities, and juggle concurrent tasks effectively and efficiently.
Excellent team player with strong interpersonal skills and ability to work harmoniously in multi-cultural and multi-ethnic environment.
Other desirable skills: Initiative, strong conceptual abilities, sound judgment, resilience, teamwork and coordination, excellent oral and written communication skills.
Language Requirements:
Fluency in English is required.
Fluency in Arabic, French, Portuguese, or Spanish is an advantage.
