Responsibilities
Within delegated authority, the Research Assistant will be responsible for the following duties:
Assists in identifying and monitoring substantive aspects of the work of the LT in the countries under the purview of the DPPA Eastern Africa and Indian Ocean Team (EAIOT). Prepares background materials for assessment papers, studies, briefs and reports.
Systematically follows through and retrieves, highlights and compiles information from a wide variety of information sources; prepare inputs for the LT and co-operates with research institutes and organizations in the collection of data.
Designs, prepares and maintains a country profile for each country under the purview of the LT, as well as contact lists of main stakeholders.
Prepares a variety of reports for information in order to facilitate the in-depth analysis of the retrieved information by the Team Leader and other users.
Participates in the substantive and policy discussions of the LT.
Prepares, maintains and updates files (electronic and paper) and internal databases; designs and generates a variety of periodic and ad hoc reports, statistical tables, charts, graphs, and other background materials/notes to facilitate inspection and other reviews.
Attends a variety of meetings to follow discussions, takes notes and prepares summary report, notes for the file, correspondence, etc.
Assists with the collection and analysis of data as well as preparation of data presentations and reports for information sharing, responding to queries, knowledge management, planning and decision making.
Performs office support and administrative functions related to the work of the team, including preparing and/or processing requests in Umoja (e.g. travel requests, expense claims and payment) and Inspira.
Performs other related work as required. Work implies frequent interaction with the following: Staff within the LT and across the Organization. Officers and delegations of entities represented at UNON. Counterparts in other UN agencies. Non-governmental organizations and universities.
Results Expected: Provides reliable research and specialized support services. Well organized, accurate reports, records and/or data accomplished with only general guidance from higher level staff. Uses initiative in the identification and resolution of issues/problems. Consistently applies appropriate policies, guidelines and procedures. Effectively and in a timely manner liaises and interacts with colleagues and concerned parties internally and externally.
Education
High school diploma or equivalent is required.
Work Experience
Experience in advanced computer operations and telecommunications and in accessing information through Internet-based technologies is required.
Experience in the United Nations Common System or international organizations similar to UN Common System is desirable.
Experience in inter-governmental processes, research methodologies, data collection and maintenance is desirable 1 year or more of experience in data analytics or related area is desirable.
Seven years of experience in collecting and researching data across various areas of social and economic development or related area is required.
The minimum years of relevant experience is reduced to 5 for candidates who possess a first-level university degree or higher.