The United Nations (UN) has announced 13 open Research Assistant jobs across various departments, including the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA). These 6-month consultant roles offer remote work options and focus on political affairs, legal research, and policy analysis.
About the Opportunity
The United Nations (UN) is currently hiring Research Assistants under multiple departments and offices, including the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA). These positions are part of the UN’s global recruitment effort to strengthen its research, analysis, and policy development capacities.
With 13 open Research Assistant positions available, successful applicants will have the chance to contribute to high-impact research in areas such as law, governance, political affairs, post-conflict recovery, and sustainable development. Many of these positions include remote or hybrid work options, making them accessible to qualified professionals around the world.
Key Highlights
| Position Title | Research Assistant (Consultant) |
|---|---|
| Job Opening ID | 266446 |
| Category/Level | Consultant (CON) |
| Department/Office | Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) |
| Duty Station | Beirut (with potential for remote work) |
| Duration | 6 Months (extendable) |
| Application Deadline | Open |
| Date Posted | October 29, 2025 |
| Languages Required | English and Arabic (Fluency required) |
| Educational Requirement | Bachelor’s or Master’s in Law, International Affairs, or related fields |
| Experience Required | Minimum 7 years in legal or policy research |
| Compensation | Competitive UN consultant rate (varies by location) |
About the ESCWA Research Assistant Role
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) plays a key role in advancing peace, sustainable development, and governance in the Arab region. The Research Assistant position specifically supports ESCWA’s Syria Program (NAFS), which promotes dialogue and reform during the country’s transition phase.
Objective of the Role
The Research Assistant will conduct legal and policy research to support ESCWA’s initiatives related to governance, reconstruction, and institutional reform in Syria. This includes producing policy briefs, analytical summaries, and reports that inform UN strategies in post-conflict contexts.
Duties and Responsibilities
Under the supervision of the Syria Portfolio Coordinator / NAFS Programme Manager, the Research Assistant will:
- Conduct primary and secondary research on assigned topics.
- Carry out legal research and review laws, regulations, and frameworks relevant to Syria’s post-conflict governance.
- Draft policy briefs, analytical reports, and comparative studies on reform-related issues.
- Prepare written reviews and summaries of Arabic and English literature on assigned themes.
- Produce detailed sectoral reports on legislative and institutional frameworks.
- Take comprehensive notes during consultations, focus groups, and technical meetings.
- Assist in the drafting, editing, and finalization of written outputs for publication.
- Support the Syria NAFS Programme with other research and administrative tasks as assigned.
Qualifications and Skills Required
Education
- A Bachelor’s degree in Law, International Affairs, Political Science, or a related discipline is required.
- A Master’s degree in these fields is desirable.
Note: Applicants must upload copies of their degrees. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Experience
- At least 7 years of professional experience in legal studies, research, or public policy.
- Demonstrated experience in research on conflict-affected countries, preferably Syria or similar contexts.
- Proven knowledge of legislative and regulatory frameworks.
- Experience with UN systems, policies, or procedures is desirable.
Skills
- Excellent research and analytical skills.
- Strong written and oral communication in English and Arabic.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
- Capacity to collaborate effectively in multicultural teams.
- Familiarity with Microsoft Office, data management, and policy analysis tools.
Languages Required
- English: Fluency required (read, write, speak, understand).
- Arabic: Fluency required (read, write, speak, understand).
- French: Advantageous but not mandatory.
Work Location and Duration
- Location: UN-House ESCWA, Beirut, Lebanon (remote flexibility available).
- Duration: 6 months (with the possibility of extension up to 9 months based on project needs).
- Expected Start Date: Upon selection and onboarding.
About the ESCWA NAFS Programme
The National Agenda for the Future of Syria (NAFS) is an initiative launched by ESCWA in 2012 to facilitate technical dialogue among Syrians and support inclusive policy reform. It focuses on:
- Assessing institutional needs post-conflict,
- Supporting governance and policy reform,
- Promoting social and economic recovery.
As Syria enters a critical transition period, this position plays a direct role in rebuilding governance structures, enhancing legal frameworks, and promoting reconciliation and reform.
Benefits and Compensation
- Competitive consultancy pay scale (based on UN standards and experience).
- Access to UN resources and mentorship.
- Opportunities for networking with international development professionals.
- Exposure to policy research in post-conflict reconstruction and governance.
- Potential for remote or hybrid work arrangements depending on project requirements.
How to Apply
Applications for the UN Research Assistant Jobs 2025 must be submitted through the United Nations Careers Portal.
Application Steps:
- Visit the official UN Careers Portal: https://careers.un.org
- Search for Job Opening ID 266446 or filter by ESCWA / Research Assistant.
- Review the full vacancy announcement.
- Click “Apply Now” and complete the online application form.
- Upload all required documents:
- Educational certificates
- Updated CV
- Cover letter highlighting relevant experience
- Work samples (if requested)
Deadline to Apply: November 4, 2025 (Midnight New York Time)
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted directly for interviews by the ESCWA recruitment team.
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Important Notice
The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview, processing, or training). Applicants should disregard any solicitations requesting money or banking information.
Why Apply
- Opportunity to work with one of the most respected international organizations.
- Gain first-hand experience in policy research, conflict analysis, and governance reform.
- Contribute to meaningful projects shaping the future of post-conflict Syria.
- Access to remote work flexibility and collaborative multicultural teams.
- Build professional credibility through a United Nations consultancy role.
Conclusion
The UN Research Assistant Jobs 2025 represent a rare chance to contribute to high-impact work that supports peacebuilding and governance reform in the Arab region. With 13 positions open, including roles that allow remote collaboration, this program is ideal for professionals in legal, political, or international studies who aspire to make a global difference.
Submit your application before November 4, 2025, and be part of the United Nations’ mission to promote justice, development, and stability worldwide.
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