Data and Secondary Research Support for UNEP
Organizational Context
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority, setting the environmental agenda and promoting sustainable development within the UN system. The UNEP India Country Office collaborates with national and local entities, civil society, and other stakeholders to address environmental priorities such as pollution prevention, waste management, and marine litter. Reliable data is crucial for understanding trends, identifying knowledge gaps, and informing UNEP's engagement.
Job Purpose
This role supports the UNEP India Country Office by conducting secondary research and compiling information on marine plastic litter, solid waste management, and plastic waste management. The assignment involves desk-based research, literature review, data compilation, and preparation of research summaries. The volunteer will contribute to understanding environmental challenges and informing UNEP's programme activities by gathering and organizing relevant data. The role focuses on evidence-gathering and data compilation, without requiring independent primary research or policy formulation.
Responsibilities
The Online Volunteer will support desk-based research on marine plastic litter, solid waste management, and plastic waste management. This includes identifying and reviewing relevant reports, datasets, academic literature, and government publications. The volunteer will compile quantitative and qualitative information, collect and organize data on waste generation, collection, processing, recycling, disposal, and marine litter. Data will be organized in structured spreadsheets with documented sources. Responsibilities also include cross-checking data, identifying data gaps, compiling information based on specific research questions, and preparing simple tables, charts, and data summaries. Maintaining an organized bibliography and updating research outputs based on feedback are also key duties.
Work Experience
Prior professional work experience is not required. Relevant university research, dissertations, coursework, internships, volunteer assignments, or academic projects demonstrating research capability are considered. Familiarity with data visualization tools, basic statistical analysis, reference management software, or academic research databases is an asset.
Skills
Strong desk-research and analytical skills are essential. The ability to identify, review, and summarize technical and academic literature is required. Proficiency in working with quantitative and qualitative information, systematic data organization, and accurate source documentation is necessary. Good skills in spreadsheet applications (e.g., Microsoft Excel) and strong written communication and information synthesis skills are needed. A keen interest in environmental issues and the UN's work is important. Academic exposure or demonstrated interest in marine litter, plastic pollution, or waste management is strongly preferred.