Research Assistant
Organizational Context
The Security Council Secretariat Branch, within the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs at UN Headquarters, supports the Security Council's daily operations. This includes managing its programme of work, facilitating meetings, providing procedural advice, and supporting Council missions. The Research Assistant reports to a Senior Political Affairs Officer or Political Affairs Officer.
Job Purpose
The Research Assistant supports the UN Security Council's operations by monitoring its practice and procedure. This involves identifying and evaluating documents, summarizing information, collecting and analyzing data, and preparing background materials for various reports, assessments, and briefs. The role contributes to the effective functioning of the Security Council by ensuring accurate and timely information is available for its decision-making processes and operational activities. The position also involves maintaining databases, preparing reports and presentations, and assisting with the organization of meetings and conferences.
Responsibilities
Key duties include monitoring the Security Council's substantive work, practice, and procedure. The role involves identifying, evaluating, and summarizing documents, collecting and analyzing data, and preparing background materials for reports, assessments, and presidential briefs. Responsibilities also encompass managing and updating files and internal databases, designing and generating reports, statistical tables, and charts. The Research Assistant will draft meeting summaries, coordinate publication processes, and assist in preparing documentation for Security Council conferences and meetings. Maintaining the Security Council website and providing guidance to junior staff are also part of the role.
Work Experience
A minimum of seven years of experience in research support or a related field is required. This requirement is reduced to five years for candidates with a first-level university degree. Experience supporting an intergovernmental body and using document/meeting management databases is desirable.
Skills
Professionalism (research methodologies, data collection/maintenance, analysis), Communication (clear and effective speaking/writing, active listening), Planning & Organizing (goal setting, prioritization, time management, risk assessment).