RESEARCH ASSISTANT

Org. Setting and Reporting
The Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) forms part of the United Nations Secretariat and, like the other regional commissions, operates under the supervision of the United Nations Economic and Social Council. ESCWA comprises 21 Arab countries in Western Asia and North Africa. ESCWA provides a framework for the formulation and harmonization of sectoral policies for member countries, a platform for congress and coordination, a home for expertise and knowledge, and an information observatory. ESCWA activities are coordinated with the divisions and main offices of the Headquarters of the United Nations, specialized agencies, and international and regional organizations, including the League of Arab States and its subsidiary bodies, and the Gulf Cooperation Council. This position is located in Cluster 2 on Gender Justice, Population, and Inclusive Development in the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA - unescwa.org). The Research Assistant will report to the Cluster Leader and to the Lead of the Urban Development portfolio.
Responsibilities
Within delegated authority, the Research Assistant will be responsible for the following duties: 1. Researches, extracts and compiles information and technical data on specific programmes/projects related to urban development. 2. Sorts, consolidates, extracts and processes data and enter into relevant database. 3. Assists in the implementation of the Arab Mayors Academy. 4. Assists in the development of Voluntary Local Reviews pertaining to following up and reviewing the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals at the local level. 5. Assists in monitoring developments/issues on urban development areas by collecting, selecting, analysing and compiling materials from multiple sources, e.g., relevant databases, the library and the Internet. 6. Assembles original statistical material; adjusts reported data from different sources and load data into computerized database system. 7. Assists in the evaluation and examination of data sets for accuracy, clarity and validity. 8. Assists in the maintenance of relevant computerized databases. 9. Prepares a variety of reports, presentations, tables, lists, graphs, charts and/or diagrams for information and review by senior officers. 10. Prepares abstracts/bibliographic descriptions for inclusion in documents, articles, books and publications. 11. Reviews, stores, classifies, and maintains relevant computerized databases. 12. Takes notes and drafts executive summaries of meetings. 13. Co-ordinates and sets up press briefings, press statements, pamphlets or other public awareness campaigns to educate public on issues related to urban development. 14. Provides guidance/training to new/junior staff. 15. Assists with the collection and analysis of data as well as preparation of surveys, online questionnaires, data presentations and reports for information sharing, responding to queries, knowledge management, planning and decision making. 16. Assists with visualizations and updating information material such as web pages or brochures. 17. Performs other related work as required.
Competencies
PROFESSIONALISM: Ability to research, interpret and analyse a wide variety of data. Knowledge of the functions and organization of the work unit, and of the organizational structure and respective roles of related units. Knowledge of internal policies, processes and procedures. Demonstrates use of initiative and ability to make appropriate linkages in work requirements. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. COMMUNICATION: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed. TEAMWORK: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
Education
High school diploma or equivalent is required.
Job - Specific Qualification
Not available.
Work Experience
Five (5) years of experience in collecting and researching data across various areas of social and economic development or related area is required. One (1) year of experience in conducting impact assessments or evaluations related to development projects and in sustainable and resilient urban practices is desirable. One (1) year of technical experience in developing interactive dashboards on sustainable development key trends in the Arab region and in leveraging digital technologies for urban development is desirable. One (1) year of experience in gender equality is desirable. Three (3) years of experience in urban development research and analysis is desirable. One (1) year of experience in working with international organizations, NGOs, or governmental agencies on urban development projects is desirable.
Languages
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat; and Arabic is a working language of ESCWA. For this position, fluency in English is required; and fluency in Arabic is required. Note:

Desired Candidate Profile

Education:
Bachelor of Science(Computers)
Gender:
nm
Nationality:
Any Nationality