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Research Associate (2 Positions), Helsinki, Finland

POSITION: Personal Service Agreement
REFERENCE NO.: 2014/UNU/WIDER/PSA/RA/35
LOCATION: Helsinki, Finland
CLOSING DATE: 2014-07-31
Organizational Unit: UNU World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER)
United Nations University objectives
The United Nations University (UNU) is an international community of scholars, engaged in research, postgraduate teaching and capacity development, and dissemination of knowledge in furthering the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. The mission of UNU is to contribute, through research and capacity building, to efforts to resolve the pressing global problems that are the concern of the United Nations and its Member States.
United Nations University World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER)
UNU-WIDER is a leading international development economics research and training centre. The Institute uses approaches and methodologies from economics and other sciences to conduct research oriented to key development issues and policy challenges affecting the developing world. UNU-WIDER aims to stimulate international policy research, provide an effective global research network, and deliver impact, quality and opportunities. UNU-WIDER's audiences include national and international policymakers, bilateral and multilateral development organizations; and development researchers, especially in the developing world. UNU-WIDER strives for excellence in all activities, and the Institute was ranked 7thinternational development think tank in the 2013 Global Go-To Think Tanks Report.
UNU-WIDER is looking for two (2) outstanding individuals with strong commitment and potential to support the research and training programme of the Institute. For more information on UNU-WIDER and its work programme, please visit www.wider.unu.edu.
Responsibilities
Under the authority and overall supervision of the Director of the Institute, the Research Associate will:
  • Contribute effectively to the implementation of the UNU-WIDER research programme;
  • Carry out teaching, training and supervision within the capacity building programme of the Institute, including guidance of junior researchers and PhD students;
  • Perform any other tasks as assigned by the Director.
Required qualifications and experience
  • PhD degree or equivalent in Economics, Development Economics or a related discipline;
  • At least three (3) years of progressively responsible relevant postgraduate work experience;
  • Excellent drafting skills and fluency in both oral and written English. Knowledge of other official UN languages would be an asset;
  • Excellent team player with strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a multicultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.
Remuneration
Monthly remuneration of EUR 5,500 subject to submission of reports to the Director on the tasks accomplished at the end of each quarter during the contract period, on 15 December, 15 March, 15 June and 15 September. It is inclusive of a housing subsidy of EUR 700 payable to applicants not residing in Finland/citizens of Finland.
Duration of contract
This is a full-time employment on a one (1) year Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) contract with UNU-WIDER, with the possibility for renewal subject to requirements and satisfactory work performance. The combined duration of appointments shall not exceed six (6) years.
The successful candidate will be employed under a local contract and will not hold international civil servant status nor be a 'staff member' as defined in the United Nations Staff Rules and Regulations. No relocation allowance applies.
Applications from suitably qualified women candidates and those from developing countries are particularly encouraged.
Interested applicants should submit their applications online (athttp://www1.wider.unu.edu/crm/Research-Associate-PSA) and must upload the following:
  • A cover letter setting out how the qualifications and experience match the requirements of the position; and
  • A completed and signed UNU Personal History (P.11) form. Please avoid using similar forms provided by other United Nations organizations.