Associate (Research)

Organizational Context

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN's lead agency for international development, working in 170 countries to eradicate poverty and reduce inequality. In India, UNDP has been active since 1951, supporting national development priorities and accelerating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Country Programme (2023-2027) focuses on accountable institutions, enhanced economic opportunities, and climate-smart solutions. The Action for Climate and Environment (ACE) Unit specifically addresses climate change, natural resource management, and biodiversity conservation.

Job Purpose

The Associate (Research) will support the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC) National Project Management Unit in implementing the GEF-7 project focused on sustainable management and restoration of degraded landscapes for Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) in India. This role involves contributing to achieving LDN through ecosystem-based approaches, creating carbon sinks, and enabling institutional frameworks for sustainable land management. The position will support project activities, research, data analysis, reporting, and coordination with various stakeholders to ensure the project's successful implementation and achievement of its outcomes, including enhanced enabling frameworks, integrated landscape design, and improved LDN monitoring and reporting.

Responsibilities

The Associate (Research) will assist with technical tasks including data collection, analysis, and reporting to ensure smooth project management. Responsibilities include conducting research and preparing technical documents, reports, presentations, and publications. The role involves supporting the implementation and tracking of project activities, and ensuring regular communication and coordination with the National Project Management Unit, State Project Steering Committee, UNDP, and MoEFCC. The Associate will prepare Annual Work Plans, coordinate project meetings, and follow up on activities with technical agencies and organizations. Logistical support for workshops and timely preparation of progress reports, donor reports, and financial reports are also key duties. Additionally, the role supports the development of communication strategies, provides technical input, handles routine correspondence, and offers administrative and operational support. The Associate will analyze project implementation, identify problems, develop solutions, and stay updated on relevant research developments.

Work Experience

A minimum of three years of experience in research, documentation, or related areas is required. Experience in climate change adaptation/mitigation, natural resource management, biodiversity conservation, or ecosystem/land restoration is advantageous. Strong analytical and writing skills, excellent coordination and networking abilities, and proficiency in Microsoft Office applications are essential. Experience working effectively in a multicultural team and adapting to challenging environments is also important.

Skills

Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, flexibility, building trust, commitment, motivation, continuous learning, communication, creativity, ethics, integrity, planning, organization, professionalism, respect for diversity, self-management, and teamwork. Specific skills include expertise in development programmes, energy, and environment, with strong analytical, writing, and coordination abilities.

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