Apply now for the Research Assistant at the United Nations — a home-based, entry-level position with the United Nations Environment Programme. Duration: 6 months. Open to candidates with a degree in Economics, Environment, or related fields. Deadline: 9 November 2025.
Overview
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is recruiting a Research Assistant Consultant to support its Economics of Nature (TEN) Unit within the Ecosystems Division.
This home-based consultancy is a unique opportunity for aspiring researchers and environmental economists to contribute to ecosystem valuation and climate resilience projects across four cities in Lao PDR.
The position welcomes applications from early-career professionals and researchers, making it one of the most accessible entry points into the UN system for individuals with academic or limited professional experience.
- Position: Research Assistant Consultant
- Organization: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
- Job Network: Environment (ENV)
- Category and Level: Consultant (CON)
- Duty Station: Home-based
- Duration: 6 months
- Department: UNEP Ecosystems Division – Economics of Nature (TEN) Unit
- Application Deadline: 9 November 2025
- Date Posted: 29 October 2025
About UNEP
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global authority on environmental issues. It works with governments, civil society, and the private sector to promote sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience.
UNEP’s Ecosystems Division leads international efforts to conserve and restore ecosystems while promoting policies that balance development and environmental protection.
The Economics of Nature (TEN) Unit provides technical and analytical expertise in ecosystem valuation, environmental economics, and nature-based solutions (NBS).
About the Project
The Research Assistant will support the Green Climate Fund (GCF) project:
“Building Resilience of Urban Populations in Lao PDR.”
This project helps cities in Kaisorn, Paksan, Pakse, and Vientiane adopt ecosystem-based adaptation (EBA) strategies to enhance urban resilience against climate change — particularly flooding.
Through research and data collection, UNEP aims to quantify the economic benefits of adopting nature-based solutions (e.g., wetland conservation, forest restoration) compared to “do-nothing” development scenarios.
Your work will directly support policymakers in Lao PDR to integrate ecosystem valuation into urban planning and climate adaptation strategies.
Key Responsibilities for Research Assistant at the United Nations
Under the supervision of the TEEB Coordinator and Head of the Economics of Nature Unit, the Research Assistant will:
1. Research and Data Collection
- Identify and document ecosystem services provided by EBA scenarios in four Lao cities.
- Gather spatial and non-spatial data from reports, hydrological studies, GIS layers, and government databases.
- Translate relevant data and documentation into English.
2. Data Organization and Analysis
- Develop a comprehensive database for economic valuation of ecosystem services.
- Compare data across EBA and non-EBA scenarios (“do-nothing” option).
- Prepare datasets that quantify provisioning, regulating, and cultural ecosystem services.
3. Collaboration and Coordination
- Work closely with the Lead Valuation Consultant and UNEP-TEN staff to:
- Identify priority ecosystem services for valuation.
- Select appropriate economic valuation methods (e.g., market pricing, avoided damage cost, stated preference).
- Support the design of primary and secondary data collection methods, including surveys and field assessments.
4. Reporting and Technical Support
- Contribute to the co-development of ecosystem-based adaptation scenarios.
- Assist in preparing technical summaries, data reports, and economic assessments.
- Support coordination with national stakeholders and UNEP project teams.
Expected Deliverables
- Identification of key ecosystem services for EBA scenarios in four cities.
- Comprehensive spatial database for ecosystem valuation.
- Data and analytical summaries to support UNEP policy recommendations.
Qualifications and Requirements
Education
- Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Economics, Environmental Economics, Environmental Policy, or a related field.
- A Bachelor’s degree with at least two years of relevant academic or professional experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.
Experience
- At least two years of experience in economic assessment, ecosystem valuation, or ecosystem-based adaptation.
- Understanding of environmental and development planning in Lao PDR or the Southeast Asian region is required.
- Prior work with UN agencies, government institutions, or research projects is an asset.
Languages
- Fluency in English and Lao is required.
- Working knowledge of French is desirable.
Core Competencies
- Research and analytical skills
- Attention to detail and data accuracy
- Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
- Effective communication and teamwork
- Commitment to UNEP values of integrity, respect, and accountability
About Ecosystem Valuation
Ecosystem services are the benefits humans receive from nature — such as clean air, flood protection, food, and recreation.
By placing an economic value on these services, policymakers can make informed decisions about urban planning and climate adaptation.
This position will support the use of economic valuation models (e.g., market price, avoided damage cost, contingent valuation) to quantify the financial and social benefits of nature-based solutions.
Why You Should Apply
- Entry-level access to the United Nations system (no prior UN experience required).
- Work on real-world projects with direct policy impact.
- Gain experience in environmental economics and GIS data.
- Collaborate with international experts and UN professionals.
- Flexible, home-based work arrangement.
- Contribute to climate resilience and sustainable development in Asia.
Application Process
To apply for the Research Assistant Consultant (UNEP) position:
- Visit the official UN Careers Portal.
- Search for Job Opening ID: 266589 (Research Assistant Consultant – UNEP).
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload the following documents:
- Updated CV (with education and experience).
- Motivation letter explaining your interest in ecosystem valuation and UNEP’s work.
- Academic certificates (degree or transcripts).
- Submit your application before the deadline: 9 November 2025.
Note: The UN does not charge any application or processing fees.
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Important Information
- Work Location: Home-based (remote).
- Contract Duration: 6 months (with possible extension).
- Start Date: As soon as possible after selection.
- Remuneration: Based on UN consultant rates and experience.
- No fee: The United Nations does not charge fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need prior UN experience to apply?
No. This position is open to individuals without prior UN experience. Strong academic and analytical skills are sufficient.
2. What does “home-based” mean?
You can work remotely from your home country, maintaining communication with UNEP teams via online platforms.
3. Is this a paid position?
Yes. This is a consultant role and offers compensation based on UN consultancy standards.
4. What is the main goal of the project?
To assess and quantify the economic value of nature-based solutions (NBS) and ecosystem-based adaptation (EBA) measures in Lao PDR’s urban areas.
5. Can I apply as a recent graduate?
Yes. Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree and strong research background may qualify, even with limited experience.
6. Is knowledge of Lao language mandatory?
Yes. Since the project focuses on Lao PDR, fluency in English and Lao is required for effective data translation and stakeholder engagement.
7. What type of work will I be doing daily?
You’ll focus on data analysis, report preparation, literature reviews, and coordination with UNEP experts and local partners.
8. What happens after I apply?
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview or written assessment. Final selections will be made by UNEP’s Ecosystems Division.
9. Are there any fees or hidden costs?
No. UNEP does not charge application or processing fees.
10. What skills will I gain from this role?
You will develop advanced skills in ecosystem valuation, environmental policy analysis, data management, and international research collaboration.
Conclusion
This UNEP Research Assistant Consultant 2025 position is an exceptional opportunity for emerging professionals to contribute to climate resilience, nature-based solutions, and sustainable development within a UN framework — all while working remotely.
If you are passionate about environmental economics, sustainability, and global development, apply by 9 November 2025 and start your journey with the United Nations Environment Programme.
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