United Nations University Hiring Research Associates (Salary: $60,000–$63,304) | Apply by 12 November 2025

The United Nations University Hiring Research Associates position based in New York, USA, with a 6-month renewable contract and an annual salary between $60,000 and $63,304. The role focuses on research in global economic governance and multilateralism, jointly under UNU-CPR and UNU-WIDER. Deadline: 12 November 2025.

Overview

The United Nations University (UNU) is seeking a talented and motivated Research Associate to join its Centre for Policy Research (UNU-CPR) in New York, with collaboration across its World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER) in Helsinki.

This six-month position offers an exciting opportunity to conduct policy-driven research on global governance, economic policy, and international cooperation, contributing to the UNU’s mission of generating actionable insights for a more sustainable and equitable world.

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About the United Nations University

The United Nations University (UNU) serves as the academic arm of the UN, conducting independent research, capacity development, and postgraduate education. For over five decades, UNU has contributed to global solutions in sustainability, human security, and development, with research centers in over 12 countries.

UNU’s institutes include:

• UNU-CPR (Centre for Policy Research) in New York — specializing in strategic UN policy research and innovation.
• UNU-WIDER (World Institute for Development Economics Research) in Helsinki — advancing economic analysis and policy advice for equitable global growth.

Together, these institutes combine research excellence with practical policy engagement.

Position Details for the United Nations University Hiring Research Associates

Job Title: Research Associate
Location: New York, United States (On-site)
Institutes: UNU-CPR & UNU-WIDER
Contract Type: Personnel Service Agreement (PSA)
Duration: 6 months (renewable, up to 6 years maximum)
Salary: USD $60,000 – $63,304 per year
Start Date: Early December 2025
Application Deadline: 12 November 2025 (12:00 PM NY Time)

Key Responsibilities

1. Research and Analysis

• Conduct empirical research and literature reviews on international cooperation, multilateral reforms, and the global financial system.
• Draft policy reports, technical papers, and research briefs with recommendations for policymakers.
• Collaborate with UNU researchers on joint UNU-CPR and UNU-WIDER publications.

2. Coordination and Representation

• Attend UN briefings and global policy events, summarizing key takeaways and policy entry points.
• Engage with UN agencies, Member States, and policy experts on global governance initiatives.
• Support workshops, conferences, and research dissemination events.

3. Strategic Support

• Develop content for policy outreach and digital communications.
• Assist with fundraising proposals, research partnerships, and reporting.
• Contribute to knowledge-sharing within the UNU global research network.

Competencies

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Integrity: Commitment to UN values and ethical conduct.
• Inclusivity: Respect for diversity and cultural sensitivity.
• Analytical Skills: Strong data and policy analysis capabilities.
• Adaptability: Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced, international environment.
• Collaboration: Effective teamwork and stakeholder engagement skills.

Qualifications and Experience

Education:

• Master’s degree in Economics, Public Policy, Political Science, International Affairs, or related social sciences.

Experience:

• Minimum 2 years of professional research or policy experience (economics or global governance focus preferred).
• Proven experience with qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• Demonstrated ability to draft and edit complex policy documents.
• Experience organizing academic or policy events.
• International exposure and willingness to travel.

Languages:

• Excellent oral and written English required.
• Knowledge of another UN language (French, Spanish, or Arabic) is an asset.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary Range: USD $60,000 – $63,304 (annual, net)
• Contract Type: PSA (Personnel Service Agreement)
• Benefits:
  • 30 days annual leave
  • Health insurance scheme
  • International work exposure
• Taxes are the sole responsibility of the PSA holder.

Application Procedure

To Apply:

Applicants must submit the following via the UNU recruitment portal:

1. UNU P11 Form (only the official UNU version is accepted).
2. Motivation statement included within the P11 form.
3. Responses to position-specific questions within the application portal.

Apply via: UNU Careers Portal

Deadline: 12 November 2025, 12:00 PM (New York Time)

Late submissions will not be accepted.

APPLY NOW

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Assessment Process

Qualified candidates will undergo:

• Application review and shortlisting
• Written assessment or research task
• Competency-based interview
• Reference and background checks

Final selection will consider diversity, merit, and alignment with UNU’s mission.

Additional Information

• The position is open to nationals and international applicants.
• Women and candidates from developing countries are strongly encouraged to apply.
• UNU has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation, abuse, and discrimination.
• This is a non-staff position under PSA rules — PSA holders are not considered UN staff members.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the main focus of this position?
The role supports research in global economic governance, international cooperation, and policy innovation across UNU-CPR and UNU-WIDER projects.

2. Is this a full-time position?
Yes. This is a full-time on-site role in New York with possible travel to Helsinki.

3. How long is the contract?
The initial contract is for 6 months, with potential renewal based on performance and funding availability.

4. What type of contract is this?
It is a Personnel Service Agreement (PSA), not a staff appointment. PSA holders are external experts contracted to provide services.

5. Is the position open to non-U.S. citizens?
Yes. The position is open to international applicants, provided they can obtain U.S. work authorization.

6. What is the expected salary?
Between USD $60,000 and $63,304 annually, depending on qualifications and experience.

7. Will UNU cover relocation or visa costs?
Candidates are expected to handle their own relocation and visa arrangements.

8. What skills are most valued?
Strong research, policy writing, data analysis, and familiarity with UN or international governance frameworks.

9. Are remote or hybrid work options available?
This position is primarily on-site in New York, though limited flexibility may be considered.

10. How can I apply?
Submit the UNU P11 Form and required documents via the official UNU Careers Portal before 12 November 2025.

Summary

Final Thoughts

This UNU Research Associate position offers an exceptional opportunity for emerging policy researchers to contribute directly to the UN’s global agenda. Working at the intersection of economics, multilateralism, and sustainable development, the role provides both academic depth and practical policy engagement.

If you are passionate about global governance and eager to support evidence-based policymaking within the UN system, apply before 12 November 2025 to join the United Nations University’s global team of thinkers and changemakers.

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