Research Associate - Community of Practice
Organizational Context
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific: Subregional Office for South and South-West Asia (ESCAP-SSWA) promotes regional cooperation for inclusive and sustainable economic and social development. The Asian and Pacific Centre for Transfer of Technology (APCTT), a regional institution of UNESCAP, fosters sustainable development through technology transfer and innovation. APCTT is focusing on Artificial Intelligence and remote sensing to address climate change impacts in the Asia-Pacific region, supporting member states in enhancing climate resilience and environmental monitoring.
Job Purpose
This role supports the management and knowledge activities of the Community of Practice (CoP) on Climate, focusing on research, knowledge generation, documentation, and analytical support. The incumbent will contribute to identifying and analyzing emerging technologies, policies, and best practices related to climate change in the Asia-Pacific region. Key contributions include preparing research briefs, knowledge products, and case studies to facilitate knowledge exchange and informed dialogue within the CoP. The position aims to bridge technology gaps and promote innovative solutions for the region's environmental challenges, aligning with APCTT's mission to foster sustainable development through cutting-edge technologies.
Responsibilities
Under the direct supervision of the Programme Management Officer, the UN Associate Volunteer will support the Climate Community of Practice (CoP) through research, knowledge generation, documentation, and analytical tasks. Key responsibilities include conducting desk research and literature reviews, identifying and analyzing emerging technologies, innovations, policies, and institutional approaches. The role involves mapping relevant stakeholders, experts, and initiatives across the Asia-Pacific region. Additionally, the volunteer will contribute to preparing research briefs, knowledge products, case studies, presentations, and background papers to support knowledge exchange. The position also entails supporting the identification, organization, and dissemination of relevant knowledge and resources, as well as facilitating the documentation of discussions and lessons learned within the CoP.
Work Experience
Requires 1 month of relevant experience. Demonstrated interest in science, technology, innovation, renewable energy, climate change, AI, or remote sensing is essential. Experience in research, literature reviews, data gathering, analysis, and report preparation is required. Familiarity with emerging technologies and innovation ecosystems is beneficial. Strong writing, editing, synthesizing, and presentation skills are necessary. Proficiency in online research tools, Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, AI tools, and knowledge management platforms is expected.
Skills
Adaptability, Flexibility, Commitment, Motivation, Commitment to Continuous Learning, Teamwork. Expertise in Climate Change, Environment, Energy, Information Technology, and Telecommunications. Strong analytical, research, writing, and communication skills are essential. Proficiency with relevant software and online research tools is required.