UNU Careers: Apply Now for a $62K Research Fellowship at UNU

The United Nations University (UNU) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is seeking a dedicated Research Fellow to join its esteemed International Institute for Global Health (UNU-IIGH). This isn’t just another job; it’s a chance to influence policy, drive meaningful change, and contribute to the global mission of health for all. If you’re a seasoned researcher with a passion for advancing gender equality and human rights, this could be the career-defining role you’ve been waiting for.

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Why This Role Is a Game-Changer

In a world increasingly aware of the nuances of gender equality, the role of research in shaping policy is more critical than ever. As a Research Fellow at UNU-IIGH, you’ll be at the forefront of a strategic initiative aimed at improving health systems through human-centered approaches. Over the next five years, the institute plans to leverage its unique position in the Global South to push the boundaries of policy-relevant research, with a particular focus on gender equality and intersectionality. Imagine the impact you could make by helping to shape global health policies that are inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all.

About the United Nations University and UNU-IIGH

For over 40 years, the United Nations University has been a beacon of knowledge, offering impartial research on some of the world’s most pressing issues. With a network of over 400 researchers in 12 countries, UNU’s work spans the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), providing the insights needed to drive positive global change. UNU-IIGH, one of UNU’s 14 research and training institutes, was established in 2005 with a clear mission: to advance evidence-based policy on key issues related to sustainable development and global health.

Located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, UNU-IIGH serves as a critical hub for advancing knowledge and building capacity among UN agencies, programs, and member states. The institute’s strategic location in the Global South enables it to play a pivotal role in influencing health policies that are not only effective but also inclusive of the diverse needs of different populations.

What Makes This Position Unique?

The position of Research Fellow at UNU-IIGH is not just another research role; it’s an opportunity to be a leader in the field of gender equality and intersectionality. As part of the institute’s new strategic plan (2024-2028), you will have the chance to contribute to two main thematic areas: strengthening human-centered health systems and advancing enabling environments for the health workforce. These focus areas are designed to drive systemic change, ensuring that health care systems worldwide are not only effective but also equitable.

Your role will involve leading selected projects within the Gender Equality and Intersectionality work package. This includes generating and disseminating policy-relevant research, managing partnerships with external researchers and partners, and ensuring that projects are delivered on time and within budget. But this role is about more than just managing projects—it’s about driving change. You’ll be responsible for leading critical dialogues, developing capacity-strengthening initiatives, and participating in international research, policy, and outreach events.

The Impact You’ll Make

The work you’ll do as a Research Fellow at UNU-IIGH will have a far-reaching impact. By advancing human-centered approaches within health systems, you’ll contribute to strengthening health care quality across the globe. More importantly, your work will help create environments where health care workers are supported, valued, and empowered. This is not just about improving health care; it’s about transforming systems to be more inclusive and responsive to the needs of all individuals, regardless of gender, race, or socioeconomic status.

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In this role, you’ll also have the opportunity to influence policy at the highest levels. The research and analyses you produce will inform decision-making processes across UN agencies, government bodies, and academic institutions. Your work will help shape policies that are not only evidence-based but also grounded in the realities of those they aim to serve. Imagine the satisfaction of knowing that the work you do today could lead to better health outcomes for millions of people worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

As a Research Fellow, you will:

Lead Selected Projects: Oversee key projects within the Gender Equality and Intersectionality work package, ensuring that they meet quality standards and are delivered on time and within budget.
Technical and Managerial Leadership: Provide both technical and managerial oversight for research and policy engagement activities, ensuring alignment with the institute’s strategic goals.
Build and Manage Partnerships: Develop and maintain relationships with external researchers, academic institutions, and other stakeholders to advance the work package’s objectives.
Capacity Building and Knowledge Translation: Contribute to initiatives that strengthen the capacity of UN agencies, programs, and member states to implement evidence-based policies.
Supervise and Mentor: Oversee the work of postdoctoral fellows, PhD students, junior researchers, and interns, providing guidance and support.
International Engagement: Participate in international research, policy, and outreach events, representing UNU-IIGH on the global stage.
Resource Mobilization: Contribute to the institute’s resource mobilization efforts by securing funding from national and international agencies.

Competencies and Skills Required

This role demands expertise and a deep commitment to the values of the United Nations. To be successful, you’ll need a combination of technical skills, research experience, and interpersonal abilities. Key competencies and skills include:

Inclusion and Integrity: Commitment to creating an environment of dignity and respect for all, acting ethically and demonstrating the highest standards of conduct.
Humility and Humanity: Willingness to learn from others and act according to the purposes of the United Nations—peace, dignity, and equality.
Collaboration and Innovation: Ability to build positive relationships and think creatively to solve complex problems.
Leadership and Accountability: A track record of delivering results with positive impact and holding oneself and others accountable for achieving goals.

Additional qualifications include:

A PhD in public health or a related field.
At least 7 years of progressively senior professional experience, including research management.
A strong track record of academic publications related to gender equality and health.
Experience in international research and policy engagement.
Proven ability in teaching and research supervision.
Excellent communication skills in English; knowledge of another UN language is a plus.
Evidence of successful resource mobilization from national and international funding agencies.

The Rewards of Joining UNU-IIGH

Working at UNU-IIGH offers more than just a competitive salary. As a Research Fellow, you’ll be part of a dynamic team dedicated to making a difference in the world. The institute offers a supportive work environment where innovation is encouraged, and collaboration is key. You’ll have the opportunity to work on projects that have a real impact on global health policies while advancing your professional development.

The successful candidate will be employed under a Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) contract, with an annual salary ranging from $59,151 to $62,024. The position includes benefits such as 30 days of annual leave and a health insurance scheme. While the PSA contract does not confer international civil servant status, it offers the chance to work on some of the most pressing issues of our time, in a setting that values diversity, inclusion, and professional growth.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and join a team that’s making a real difference, we encourage you to apply. The application process is straightforward: simply fill out the UNU P11 Form, provide a motivation statement, and answer a few questions tailored to the position. Remember, the deadline for applications is 25 August 2024, so don’t delay.

To apply, visit the UNU-IIGH website and follow the instructions provided. We look forward to receiving your application!

Conclusion: Why This Role Matters

This is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to be at the forefront of research that can change lives. By joining UNU-IIGH as a Research Fellow, you’ll be contributing to a global mission that goes beyond the typical scope of research. You’ll be helping to build a world where health systems are not only effective but also equitable, where gender equality is not just an ideal but a reality, and where every individual, regardless of their background, has access to the care they need.

This role is ideal for someone passionate about research and committed to making a tangible difference in the world. If that sounds like you, this is the perfect opportunity to take your career to the next level.

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