Research Assistant

Systematically follows through and retrieves, highlights and compiles information from a wide variety of information sources; prepares input for the electronic database and the internet and co-operate with research institutes and organizations in the collection of data.
Assembles and examines original statistical material to ensure accuracy, clarity and validity; makes appropriate adjustments.
Prepares a variety of reports, presentations, tables, lists, charts, data sets, and/or diagrams for information in order to facilitate the in-depth analysis of the retrieved information by the supervisor and other users, including supports in preparation and finalization of publications.
Participates in the substantive and policy discussions of the Section/Division.
Maintains and expands contacts with other departments in the Secretariat, as well as the UN agencies and programmes and other organizations relevant to the region, and co-ordinate the input of other departments in the collection of data for assignments received.
Prepares, maintains and updates files (electronic and paper) and internal databases; designs and generates a variety of periodic and ad hoc reports, statistical tables, charts, graphs, and other background materials/notes to facilitate inspection and other reviews.
Drafts programme/project summaries, co-ordinates review and clearance process and co-ordinates with editor, translation services, etc., on finalization and publication of reports in multiple languages.
Identifies the organizational requirements for conferences and meetings and assists in the preparation of documentation and reports for these meetings.
Provides support in planning and organizing intergovernmental meetings such as the Committee on Transport and Ministerial Conference on Transport and other related meetings/conferences of the Section/Division.
Attends a variety of meetings to follow discussions, takes notes and prepares summary report, notes for the file, correspondence, etc.
Provides assistance, as required, in the coordination of service-wide activities (meetings, training, etc.), special projects and events.
Provides assistance in office management and administrative support functions, guidance and training to new/junior staff.
Performs other related work as required, including a variety of administrative tasks necessary for the final delivery of the work of the Section/Division.
• Communication
• :
Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.
• Accountability
Takes ownership of all responsibilities and honours commitments; delivers outputs for which one has responsibility within prescribed time, cost and quality standards; operates in compliance with organizational regulations and rules; supports subordinates, provides oversight and takes responsibility for delegated assignments; takes personal responsibility for his/her own shortcomings and those of the work unit, where applicable.
EducationHigh school diploma or equivalent is required.
A first-level university degree may be accepted in lieu of two years of required experience.
Job - Specific QualificationA recognized first-level university degree in economics, statistics, business administration, or related area is desirable.
Work ExperienceA minimum of seven years (or five years if graduated with a bachelor's degree) of progressively responsible experience supporting research-related work, including collecting, analyzing, synthesizing, and presenting data across various areas of social and economic development, or related area, is required
Experience in drafting and supporting implementation of research programmes/projects is desirable.
Experience working with Enterprise Resource Planning system is desirable.
Experience in the United Nations Common System or international organizations is desirable.
LanguagesEnglish and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat.
For the post advertised, fluency in English is required.
Knowledge of another UN official language is an advantage.
AssessmentQualified applicants may be evaluated through a competency-based interview and/or other assessment methods.
Must have passed the United Nations Global General Service Test (GGST) at Headquarters or an equivalent locally-administered test at Offices Away from Headquarters.
Due regard will be paid to the importance of recruiting the staff on as wide a geographical basis as possible.
The United Nations places no restrictions on the eligibility of men and women to participate in any capacity and under conditions of equality in its principal and subsidiary organs.
The United Nations Secretariat is a non-smoking environment.
Reasonable accommodation may be provided