Research assistant

Under the supervision of the Pacific Solution Exchange Community Facilitator, the Research Associate will be responsible for providing the Community of Practice with research, documentation and assistance to generate and maintain knowledge products.

Key functions include:

• Providing support to the Community Facilitator in managing the Pacific Solution Exchange mail-group by conducting desk research and follow up to community members to obtain material.
• Drafts material posted on Pacific Solution Exchange community mail-groups and websites under the guidance of the facilitator (e-discussion summaries, updates, newsletters etc.).
• Provides the Pacific Solution Exchange community with operational support by organizing community events and initiatives.
• Contributes to work addressing cutting edge issues of concern to the community, under the guidance of the Community Facilitator.
• Participates in Solution Exchange collective activities and collaborative initiatives.

Minimum qualifications and experience:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, climate science (adaptation), development studies, communications or another specialization relevant to the Pacific Solution Exchange Climate Change and Development community.

Experience: 3 years practical experience as a substantive practitioner in climate change adaptation/ relevant development specialization, or experience in a research or academic capacity. Experience carrying out desk research and experience in using information technology tools for research will be well regarded.

Competencies required:

Corporate Competencies:

• Demonstrates commitment to UN mission, vision and values.
• Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability.

Functional competencies:

• Thorough knowledge of the key concerns and challenges facing development and climate change practitioners in the Pacific
• Highly effective at networking and at facilitating professional collaboration
• Motivated, energetic, thorough and responsive to the needs and interests of peers
• Excellent drafting an analytical skills; able to communicate clearly through email; computer literate and willing to learn new applications.

General terms and conditions of employment:

Various other benefits such as medical, pension and annual and sick leave apply. Contract duration is 1 year initially with the possibility of an extension dependent on performance and availability of funds. Only Fiji nationals will be considered for this position.

Incomplete applications will not be considered and only candidates for whom there is further interest will be contacted. Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit a completed and signed P-11 form when contacted for interviews. Additional information including the Post Profile and Results-Oriented Curriculum vitae format is available from the UNDP website: www.undp.org.fj or the UNDP Office.

UNDP is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.