AI Research Associate

About UN University (UNU)

The United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organization within the United Nations System. UNU engages in policy-relevant research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination in furtherance of the purposes and principles of the United Nations. The work of UNU contributes to solving pressing global problems that are the concern of the United Nations and its Member States.

For the past five decades, UNU has been a source of impartial research on sustainability, human security, and economic development. With hundreds of researchers working at institutes in 12 countries, UNU's expertise spans the full breadth of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, generating policy-relevant knowledge to effect positive global change. UNU collaborates closely with other UN entities and leading research institutions across the globe. For more information, please visit

About Institute (UNU-CPR)

United Nations University Centre for Policy Research (UNU-CPR) is one of 14 research and training Institutes that comprise the think tanks in the UNU system. UNU-CPR headquarters are in New York and operates a satellite office in Geneva, Switzerland.

UNU-CPR's core mission is to produce policy-focused research and thought leadership on issues of strategic interest and importance to the United Nations and its Member States. The Centre prioritizes urgent policy needs requiring innovative, practical solutions for immediate implementation. The Centre's work also contributes to the long-term resilience of the multilateral system through dialogue, research, strategic convenings, and policy coordination. For more information, please visit

Responsibilities

This position fills a critical role in the UNU-CPR Anticipatory Action and Innovation pillar, which focuses on AI, data and emerging technology governance. Under the supervision of the Head of Pillar, the Research Associate will be responsible for:

1. Research and Writing

• Conduct empirical research on relevant topics, including through literature reviews, expert interviews, qualitative and quantitative analysis, and other sources

• Produce first drafts of high-quality policy reports and publications, identifying the implications for the multilateral system and options for policymakers

• Support the finalization and publication of UNU-CPR's research products

1. Coordination and representation

• Engage with UN offices, agencies, and funds and programmes, member states and experts in relation to digital and emerging technology governance

• Organise workshops and panels showcasing important themes in AI governance, such as robotics, AI and work, and AI and climate

• Participate in training of diplomats, follow and report on technology policy processes, and network with stakeholders of the UN

1. Strategic planning and project development

• Support the development of the Pillar's future direction and funding sources

• Identify key questions in emerging technology governance

• Support the Head of Pillar in the development of fundraising materials, reporting and preparation of meetings

1. Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Key performance indicators

• Timely and high-quality research and writing

• Professional engagement with partners and stakeholders

• Regular and clear updates on research progress

• Demonstrated willingness to learn new skills and research

• Contributes to the reputation of the research pillar and UNU CPR as a key partner for emerging technology research

Competencies

Values:

• Inclusion - take action to create an environment of dignity and respect for all, regardless of age, culture, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, geography, grade, language, nationality, racial identity, religion, sex, sex characteristics, sexual orientation, social origin or any other aspect of identity

• Integrity - act ethically, demonstrating the standards of conduct of the United Nations and taking prompt action in case of witnessing unprofessional or unethical behaviour, or any other breach of UN standards

• Humility - demonstrate self-awareness and willingness to learn from others

• Humanity - act according to the purposes of the United Nations: peace, dignity and equality on a healthy planet

Behaviours:

• Connect and collaborate - build positive relationships with others to advance the work of the United Nations and work coherently as One UN

• Analyse and plan - seek out and use data from a wide range of sources to understand problems, inform decision-making, propose evidence-based solutions and plan action

• Deliver results with positive impact - hold oneself and others accountable for delivering results and making a positive difference to the people and causes that the United Nations serves

• Learn and develop - pursue own learning and development and contribute to the learning and development of others

• Adapt and innovate - demonstrate flexibility, agility and the ability to think and act in novel ways