Policy Research Fellow – UNU-IIGH (P-3) – Apply Now!

Policy Research Fellow – UNU-IIGH (P-3) – Apply Now!
Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Contract Type: Personnel Services Agreement (PSA)
Annual Salary: $59,151 – $62,024
Deadline: 18 March 2025 (MYT 11:59 PM)
Apply Now: Policy Research Fellow Application
About the United Nations University (UNU)
The United Nations University (UNU) is a renowned think tank and postgraduate institution within the United Nations system. The university plays a pivotal role in contributing to policy-relevant research, capacity building, and knowledge dissemination, aimed at solving the world’s most pressing global problems. UNU conducts impactful research across multiple domains, such as sustainability, human

security, and economic development, with a dedicated focus on supporting the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
With its headquarters in Tokyo and institutes in 12 countries, UNU’s interdisciplinary research covers a wide range of global issues. For over five decades
, UNU has been central to providing impartial research and policy recommendations that influence decision-making at international levels. The university collaborates closely with UN agencies, governments, and leading research institutions worldwide.
To learn more about UNU, visit www.unu.edu.
About UNU-IIGH
The UNU International Institute for Global Health (UNU-IIGH) is based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and is one of UNU’s 14 research and training institutes. Established in 2005, UNU-IIGH’s mission is to enhance evidence-based policymaking in global health issues by providing research and capacity-building solutions for health systems strengthening.
The institute plays a vital role in bridging gaps between academia, policy-making, and civil society to foster global health improvements. UNU-IIGH focuses on tackling global health challenges, including gender-responsive health systems, digital health governance, and climate justice. By leveraging its position in the Global South, UNU-IIGH creates collaborative partnerships to advance sustainable development solutions and improve health outcomes worldwide.
For more information about UNU-IIGH, visit www.unu.edu/iigh.
The Position: Policy Research Fellow (P-3)
UNU-IIGH is currently recruiting a Policy Research Fellow (P-3) for its various work packages. As a Policy Research Fellow, you will lead and contribute to critical research and policy advocacy activities, as well as manage projects aimed at advancing knowledge in key areas of global health. You will work alongside top-tier international experts to influence policies that impact health systems globally. The successful candidate will also be expected to supervise research associates, PhD students, and junior researchers to further enhance the impact of research.
Key Responsibilities
As a Policy Research Fellow, you will play an instrumental role in advancing UNU-IIGH’s mission by:
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Leading Projects and Research:
You will be responsible for leading and managing projects within one of the work packages related to gender equality, digital health governance, or climate justice. You will provide technical expertise and ensure high-quality research output that is policy-relevant and impactful. -
Research Management:
The Policy Research Fellow will be expected to oversee all aspects of project implementation, from conceptualization to completion. This includes managing project timelines, ensuring adherence to budgets, and maintaining rigorous standards of research. -
Policy Engagement and Capacity Building:
You will contribute to policy dialogues, knowledge translation, and advocacy efforts that influence decision-makers and global health policies. Additionally, you will facilitate capacity-building workshops to support the development of a global health workforce. -
Supervision and Mentorship:
Supervise policy research associates, interns, and junior researchers. Provide mentorship and guidance to strengthen research skills and ensure that research outputs are of the highest standard. -
Partnership Building:
Establish and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including government entities, international organizations, and research institutions, to foster collaboration and expand the impact of your work. -
Resource Mobilization:
Actively contribute to fundraising and resource mobilization efforts to secure support for research projects and initiatives related to the work package. -
International Representation:
Represent UNU-IIGH at international conferences, workshops, and policy forums to share research findings, promote collaborations, and influence global health policies.
Work Packages You Will Be Involved In
The Policy Research Fellow will contribute to one of the following key research areas:
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Gender Equality and Intersectionality:
This work package aims to improve the quality of healthcare through human-centered approaches. It focuses on strengthening health systems and advancing environments that support the health workforce, particularly in the context of gender equality and intersectionality. -
Digital Health Security and Governance:
Addressing the colonial legacies and power asymmetries that impact digital health governance, this work package works to promote diversity in the design and development of health technologies and strengthen health data governance, especially related to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). -
Climate Justice and Determinants of Health:
This work package amplifies research that highlights the inequalities underpinning the health impacts of the climate crisis. It aims to ensure that vulnerable populations have the capacity to mitigate and adapt to climate change, with a focus on health impacts and justice-oriented solutions.
Qualifications & Experience
To be eligible for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
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Education: A Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Public Health, Social Sciences, Development Studies) with a minimum of 7 years of progressively senior experience in managing research, training, and policy programs. Alternatively, a PhD in a relevant field with at least 5 years of professional experience is acceptable.
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Experience: Proven experience in managing development research activities in an international environment. You should have a track record of academic and peer-reviewed publications related to the field, as well as experience in international research and policy engagement.
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Leadership and Supervision: Experience in managing research teams, including supervising policy research associates and junior researchers.
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Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English. A working knowledge of other UN languages is an asset.
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Funding and Resource Mobilization: A strong track record in obtaining funding from national and international agencies to support research and policy initiatives.
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Collaboration: Ability to work in a multicultural and multidisciplinary team, and effectively collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
Remuneration & Benefits
- Annual Net Salary: $59,151 – $62,024, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage as part of the benefits package.
- Annual Leave: 30 days of paid leave annually.
- Contract Duration: One-year initial contract with the possibility of renewal, subject to performance.
Please note that the UNU is not responsible for any taxes that may be levied on the remuneration. Payment of taxes remains the responsibility of the PSA holder.
How to Apply
To apply for the Policy Research Fellow position, please follow these steps:
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Complete the Application:
Submit your application through the UNU Application Portal and ensure your details are accurate and up to date. -
Submit the UNU P11 Form:
Complete the UNU P11 form (please avoid using forms from other UN organizations) and provide a motivation statement as part of your application. In the form, you will be asked to rank the work packages you would like to be considered for. -
Attach Required Documents:
Include your CV, copies of your degrees, and proof of relevant work experience. Make sure your application is complete and accurate before submitting it. -
Submit by 18 March 2025:
The application deadline is 18 March 2025 (MYT 11:59 PM). Late applications will not be considered.
Why Join UNU-IIGH?
As a Policy Research Fellow at UNU-IIGH, you will be working at the intersection of global health, sustainability, and policy influence. You will contribute to shaping the future of health systems and policies in a diverse and dynamic international setting. By joining UNU, you will have the opportunity to collaborate with leading experts in the field, contribute to significant research, and make a meaningful impact on global health and development.
Additionally, you will benefit from an inclusive and respectful work environment that encourages professional growth and offers opportunities for learning and development.
For more job opportunities and updates, visit our internal job portal: NGO Job Spaces.
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UNU’s Commitment to Diversity
UNU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce. Women, persons with disabilities, and candidates from developing countries are encouraged to apply. We also strongly promote a zero-tolerance policy on all forms of harassment and discrimination in the workplace.
Don’t miss this chance to contribute to cutting-edge research at the heart of global health policy. Apply now for the Policy Research Fellow position with UNU-IIGH and join a team that is shaping the future of health systems and policy globally.
Policy Research Fellow – UNU-IIGH (P-3) – Apply Now!/
Policy Research Fellow – UNU-IIGH (P-3) – Apply Now!/
Policy Research Fellow – UNU-IIGH (P-3) – Apply Now!