The UNDP Research Associate positions for 2026 present an excellent opportunity for professionals and researchers passionate about digital transformation, public policy, and sustainable development. These fully funded roles offer a platform to contribute to high-impact initiatives while gaining global exposure. Based in Pretoria, South Africa, this position plays a crucial role in supporting national and international stakeholders to shape a safe, inclusive, and people-centered digital future.
About the UNDP Research Associate Role
The Research Associate position is part of the Universal DPI Safeguards Initiative—a joint effort between UNDP and United Nations Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies. The initiative works to develop frameworks and guidelines for safe and inclusive digital public infrastructure (DPI). This includes critical components such as Digital Identity, Data Exchange, Digital Payments, and Trusted Digital Channels.
Selected candidates will support the implementation of MyMzansi Digital Transformation Roadmap—a national strategy to modernize South Africa’s public sector. The work involves research, stakeholder engagement, advocacy, and communication to ensure digital transformation upholds human rights and strengthens trust.
Duty Station and Duration
- Location: Pretoria, South Africa
- Contract Duration: 4 months
- Job Schedule: Full-time
- Application Deadline: 21 October 2025
Eligibility Criteria for UNDP Research Associate
To qualify for the UNDP Research Associate position, applicants must meet the following:
- A Master’s degree in Public Policy, International Relations, Communications, Law, Information Systems, Development Studies, or related field.
- A Bachelor’s degree with an additional two years of relevant experience may be considered.
- Minimum of 5–6 years of progressively responsible experience in research, policy analysis, communications, or stakeholder engagement.
- Proven expertise in digital rights, technology policy, governance, or international development.
- Excellent research, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Knowledge of other South African official languages is an asset.
- Ability to work collaboratively across diverse cultures and sectors.
Key Responsibilities
1. Research and Policy Analysis
- Conduct in-depth research on legal, regulatory, and policy frameworks related to DPI and safeguards in South Africa.
- Analyze digital rights issues, ethical AI, privacy, and inclusion challenges in the digital transformation space.
- Develop decision frameworks that guide design choices and identify use cases with strong safeguard considerations.
2. Stakeholder Engagement
- Facilitate engagement between government, civil society, and other stakeholders to ensure inclusive participation.
- Establish a multistakeholder advisory council to brainstorm, ideate, and test safeguard strategies.
- Incorporate perspectives from vulnerable communities and civil society organizations.
3. Advocacy and Communications
- Develop and implement communication strategies to promote safeguard principles in digital transformation.
- Prepare high-quality communication materials: policy briefs, reports, case studies, and advocacy campaigns.
- Support the visibility of DPI use cases in national and international forums.
4. Documentation and Knowledge Sharing
- Document lessons learned, progress, and best practices to inform global frameworks.
- Contribute to a knowledge base on DPI safeguards for future applications.
- Craft narratives that highlight the human impact of safeguarded digital services.
Contract and Compensation
- Grade: NPSA-9
- Vacancy Type: National Personnel Service Agreement
- Compensation: Fully funded (stipend, travel, and related costs covered)
- Duration: 4 months with potential for future collaboration
This opportunity offers a competitive package and full sponsorship, making it accessible to experienced professionals looking to contribute to global digital transformation efforts.
Why This Opportunity Matters
The role of a UNDP Research Associate goes beyond research—it contributes directly to building a trusted and inclusive digital ecosystem. By supporting the MyMzansi roadmap, associates help ensure that technological advancement is matched with accountability, human rights protection, and digital equity.
This is an ideal position for professionals seeking to work at the intersection of technology, policy, and sustainable development—especially those interested in international development careers and global fieldwork experience.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply through the official UNDP careers platform before the 21 October 2025 deadline.
- Vacancy ID: 29556
- Application Method: Online submission through the official portal
- Location: Pretoria, South Africa
- Timeline: 1-week vacancy
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. If you do not receive a response by the end of the vacancy period, it may indicate that your application was not successful.
Equal Opportunity Commitment
UNDP is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability status, or background. Employment decisions are based on merit and suitability for the role.
The organization also upholds strict policies against harassment, discrimination, exploitation, and abuse of authority.
Scam Alert
UNDP does not charge any fees at any stage of its recruitment process. For more information on avoiding recruitment fraud, visit the official UNDP scam alert page.
Related Global Opportunities
- WFP Graduate Fellowship Program 2025 – Fully Funded
- UNESCO Freelance Consultant Roles 2026 – Paid Global Opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is this a paid position?
Yes. The UNDP Research Associate position is fully funded, covering stipends, travel, and relevant costs.
2. Do I need prior international experience?
While prior international experience is an advantage, it is not mandatory. Relevant research or policy experience is key.
3. Is this opportunity open to international applicants?
This is a national personnel service agreement position in South Africa. However, similar roles may be available globally under the same initiative.
4. What is the duration of the contract?
The contract duration is 4 months with the possibility of consideration for future opportunities.
5. Are there fieldwork components?
Yes. This role involves engagement with stakeholders, workshops, and consultations, including on-the-ground activities aligned with the MyMzansi roadmap.
Meta Description
Explore the UNDP Research Associate Positions 2026 in Pretoria, South Africa. A fully funded, high-impact opportunity for experienced professionals in digital transformation, research, and policy.
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