Research Assistant
Organizational Context
The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), a regional commission of the United Nations, contributes to the economic and social development of the region. The Agricultural Development Unit (ADU) within ECLAC focuses on areas like food systems and productive development. This Research Assistant role supports the ADU's mission by contributing to policy design, monitoring, and advisory services.
Job Purpose
The Research Assistant in the Agricultural Development Unit (ADU) plays a crucial role in supporting the unit's work on food systems, digitalization, bioeconomy, and productive development. This position involves monitoring processes, researching and compiling information, generating reports, and maintaining databases. The role contributes to the design, monitoring, and evaluation of public policies by providing essential data and analytical support. By assisting with data collection, analysis, presentation, and website maintenance, the Research Assistant facilitates information sharing, knowledge management, planning, and decision-making within the unit, ultimately supporting ECLAC's broader mission of regional economic and social development.
Responsibilities
The Research Assistant is responsible for monitoring unit processes and schedules. Key duties include researching, compiling, and organizing information and reference materials for reports, studies, and meetings, with a focus on food systems, digitalization, bioeconomy, and productive development. The role involves generating statistical and other reports using databases, and proofreading/editing documents for accuracy and adherence to standards. Additionally, the Research Assistant will assist in website maintenance by posting documents, prepare presentation materials, perform data entry and extraction, and maintain files and databases. The position also supports data collection and analysis, preparation of data presentations, and updating information materials like web pages or brochures.
Work Experience
A minimum of three years of experience in data collection and research within social and economic development or a related field is required. This requirement is reduced to one year for candidates holding a university degree. Experience in food systems, digitalization, bioeconomy, and productive development is desirable, as is one year of experience in data analytics.
Skills
Professionalism (research methodologies, data collection/maintenance, data analysis), Teamwork (collaboration, valuing input, shared responsibility), Planning and Organizing (goal setting, prioritization, time management, risk assessment).