Senior Researcher (Artificial Intelligence)
Organizational Context
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Job Purpose
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Responsibilities
Within the Centre of Excellence on AI, Peace and Security and under the supervision of the Programme Officer, the Senior Researcher will be responsible for the following duties: Leading research projects and related tasks, including events, as part of the Centre’s work on artificial intelligence; Supporting other workstreams of the programme requiring additional advice, research support and supervision as necessary; Supporting the programme’s senior management in areas related to donor relationships, fundraising, internal and external reporting and quality assurance; Supporting the Head of Programme and Programme Officer in mentoring and coaching more junior colleagues; Assisting in other duties as assigned by the programme’s senior management and the Institute’s other senior managers. These tasks include advising them on developments related to the Senior Researcher’s fields of expertise and assisting other duties as required.
Work Experience
Education Required Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in international affairs, political science, international law; OR Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in a relevant scientific or technical field, with demonstrated track record of work at the intersection of policy and technology. Desirable Doctorate or equivalent qualification in international affairs, political science, international law OR a relevant scientific or technical field. Experience A minimum of 7 years of professional experience at the intersection of technology, policy and security is required. At least 5 years of progressive research and work experience in tech-related public policy settings such as in governments, think-tanks, research institutes or corporate policy environments, or public interest groups on issues closely or directly associated with artificial intelligence is required. A proven track record of producing policy-relevant publications is required (please include a list of publications and writing sample as described in the instructions below). A successful track record in project management is required, including in the following areas: designing project activities; monitoring timelines and milestones; implementing activities within budget and on time; overseeing and guiding research activities of team members; and conducting follow-up on project activities. A proven track record in building relationships with relevant policy partners across civil society, corporate, government and academia is required. Experience working for a UN entity or other international organizations is desirable. Knowledge of gender issues or experience with gender mainstreaming in a field relevant to the position is desirable. Experience in international, multistakeholder settings, including convening stakeholders with differing perspectives to deliberate complex issues, is desirable. A proven track record in resource mobilization and fundraising is desirable. Languages For this consultancy, fluency in English (both written and oral) is required. Knowledge of another UN official language is an advantage.
Skills
The Senior Researcher is required to demonstrate the core values of the United Nations: Professionalism, Integrity and Respect for Diversity. In addition, s/he will demonstrate the following competences: Planning and organizing: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently. 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. Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings. 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. Managing performance: Delegates the appropriate responsibility, accountability and decision-making authority; makes sure that roles, responsibilities and reporting lines are clear to each staff member; accurately judges the amount of time and resources needed to accomplish a task and matches task to skills; monitors progress against milestones and deadlines; regularly discusses performance and provides feedback and coaching to staff; encourages risk-taking and supports creativity and initiative; actively supports the development and career aspirations of staff; appraises performance fairly.