The division's research focuses on three main pillars. The first concerns the Agri-food systems innovation which examines how the development and adoption of improved agricultural practices, technologies and ways of organizing within the agri-food sector can enhance productivity, resource efficiency, system resilience, adaptation, market opportunities and environmental sustainability. Within the second working pillar on Green Innovation and Entrepreneurship the division contributes to strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem, linking youth and women with climate finance and supporting them to create innovative solutions to address local challenges through business/start-up development, job creation and leapfrogging green sectors. The third pillar on Educational Technology seeks to empowers and capacitates youth, innovators and entrepreneurs, communities and practitioners by leveraging digital and educational technologies through co-designed practical learning experiences and applied research in training methodologies.
Responsibilities:
Contribute to and conduct research on energy systems, innovations, and policies in agri-food systems innovation, with a focus on energy efficiency, renewable energy technologies, sustainable agricultural practices and compound hazards and risks in advancing energy and food security.
Analyze energy-related transformations within agri-food systems innovation, mainstream cross-sector perspectives into national strategies, and leverage mapping tools to assess opportunities and inform policy makers;
Assist to develop the division’s agri-food systems innovation thematic area framework, positioning renewable energy as an enabler within the framework.
Support to conceptualize and design new research projects, including literature reviews, research hypotheses, project proposals, and methodologies.
Draft and publish scientific papers, book chapters, policy briefs, and other research outputs for academic, policy, and practitioner audiences.
Provide input into global discussions on energy policy in agri-food systems innovation through workshops, conferences, and seminars.
Contribute to develop energy-focused project proposals in response to funding calls, ensuring alignment with UNU-VIE’s strategic objectives.
Assist to coordinate ongoing research projects, ensuring that objectives, timelines, and budgetary requirements are met.
Assist to coordinate and implement research activities, ensuring smooth collaboration amongst team members and external partners.
Track and report progress on project deliverables, ensuring timely preparation of financial and technical reports for donors and stakeholders.
Identify new research opportunities and contribute to the strategic direction of energy research in agri-food systems.
Education:
Master's degree or equivalent in Environmental Sciences, Renewable Energy, Agri-food Systems, Sustainability, or a related field.
Work Experience:
At least one (1) year of progressively responsible work experience in project management and energy research, particularly in the context of agri-food systems innovation, Water Energy and Food Nexus, energy policy, climate risk assessment or sustainable development, preferably in the Global South; More than five (5) years of experience would be an advantage.
Experience assisting in managing research budgets, supporting the development of project proposals and contributing to securing funding.
Experience assisting in supervision and mentoring of students and junior researchers.
Expertise in energy systems, renewable energy solutions, and their application in agri-food systems or in nexus approaches.
Strong research skills including drafting technical reports and policy papers.
Demonstrated ability to support on multiple research projects and meet tight deadlines.
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
Strong organizational skills, detail-oriented and capable to work autonomously in a dynamic environment.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Strong collaborative experience in interdisciplinary research environment.
Demonstrate ability to proactively identify opportunities for fund raising, new projects, and networking.
Languages:
Fluency in English is required.
Knowledge of another UN official working language is an asset.
