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Associate Researcher, Brasilia, BRAZIL

Associate Researcher, International Policy Centre For Inclusive Growth (IPC-IG)
Location: Brasilia, BRAZIL
Application Deadline: 28th November 2013
Type of Contract: SC / SB-4
Languages Required: English and Portuguese
Starting Date: 1st January 2014
Duration of Initial Contract: 12 months with possibility of extension
Background
The International Policy Centre for Inclusive Growth (IPC-IG) is a joint project between the United Nations Development Programme and the Brazilian Government to facilitate SouthSouth Cooperation on key development issues. The Centre carries out applied research and its ultimate goal is to generate knowledge resources to the global development community. The main objectives of the center are to contribute applied research-based policy recommendations for inclusive growth and to facilitate South-South exchange and learning on key development issues. Toward these ends, IPC not only conducts research, but also organizes thematic workshops, policy training seminars, advisory and programme evaluation missions for requesting countries, and hosts resident researchers. The Centre regularly publishes Working Papers, issues of Poverty in Focus, Policy Research Briefs and One Pagers to encourage policy debate and dissemination of knowledge. IPC publications are found at: http://www.ipc-undp.org/pages/newsite/menu/about/pub.jsp?active=0 The main thematic areas of focus for the IPC-IG are: social protection, programme evaluation, cash transfers, social policies and population studies. The Associate Researcher will integrate IPC-IG Research team.
Duties and Responsibilities
Under the overall supervision of the research coordinator of IPC, the candidate is expected to perform the following:
1. Undertake literature surveys, and carry out research, and quantitative and qualitative analysis of selected country programmes and policies;
2. Contribute to IPC publication series, particularly one-pagers and discussion papers;
3. Identify and liaise with key research and policy related partners and institutions;
4. Assist in organizing study tours, workshops and seminars in cooperation with partner institutions;
5. Update staff on current research developments and major conferences and meetings in the field;
6. Assume duties as needed in support of IPC-IG's work i.e. attend meetings, receive and brief officials and visitors to the Centre; and
7. Provide technical supervision to interns under his/her supervision.
Competencies
  • Corporate Demonstrates integrity and fairness, by modeling the UN/UNDP's values and ethical standards;
  • Promotes the vision, mission and strategic goals of IPC; Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability;
  • Functional Excellent analytical and writing skills; Experience in the production of technical and conceptual papers; Good interpersonal skills and ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships;
  • Knowledge of and experience in dealing with Government and nongovernmental institutions;
  • Knowledge Management and Learning Ability to strongly support and build knowledge products;
  • Experience in building client relationships with strong networking and advocacy skills;
  • Seeks and applies knowledge, information and best practices from within and outside of IPC;
  • Judgment/Decision-Making Mature judgment and initiative; and Independent judgment and discretion in advising on handling major policy issues and challenges.
Required Skills and Experiences Essential
  • At least a MA/MSc degree in the field of Economics, International Relations, Development Studies, Social Sciences or a related discipline;
  • Experience in development policy research and work experience with an academic, government, research institution or international organization;
  • Knowledge of development policies and social policies in Brazil and other developing countries;
  • Publications on one or other issue related to the work of the development policies and social policies.
  • Excellent word-processing and spreadsheet skills;
  • Good command of English and Portuguese;
Desirable
  • Experience in social protection or cash transfer programmes evaluation;
  • A good understanding of research design and methods; knowledge of household surveys, data analysis and STATA statistical will be a plus;
  • Knowledge of other UN languages 2
Experience of proof-reading/editing skills
Applicants must send a detailed CV, P11 form*, a cover letter and a recommendation letter to ipc-hr@ipc-undp.org no later than 28 November 2013 quoting in the subject 'Associate Researcher – SP2' Applications posted after deadline will not be accepted. *Personal History Form (P11) is available for download at: http://www.pnud.org.br/arquivos/P11.doc Incomplete applications or applications received after the closing date (28h November 2013) will not be given consideration. Please note that only applicants who are short-listed will be contacted. This is a national Service Contract position within the IPC-IG/UNDP. International candidates will only have their applications considered if proof of permission to work in Brazil is attached to the application. The IPC-IG/UNDP is not in a position to provide advice or assistance on applying for a Brazilian work permit. 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.