SDG Research & Data Fellow
Organizational Context
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) operates in 170 countries, focusing on poverty eradication, inequality reduction, and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In India, UNDP supports national and subnational efforts to integrate SDGs into development planning through its SDG Acceleration and Finance Unit. This unit provides technical assistance to state governments, focusing on strategic planning, data-driven decision-making, and innovative financing. A key priority is the socio-economic advancement of Scheduled Tribes, addressing disparities in essential services and livelihoods.
Job Purpose
The SDG Research & Data Fellow will support UNDP's SDG Acceleration and Finance Unit and state-level teams in India. The role involves conducting research, analyzing data, and producing knowledge products to inform policy and programming for SDG acceleration and tribal development. The Fellow will contribute to policy analysis, development diagnostics, monitoring frameworks, and the documentation of best practices. This position aims to generate insights that advance inclusive and sustainable development, particularly focusing on initiatives related to SDG acceleration, tribal rights, and development financing, ultimately supporting the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.
Responsibilities
Under the supervision of State Coordinators/Project Managers, the UN Volunteer will conduct desk research, including literature reviews and policy scans, to support SDG-related initiatives. Responsibilities include collecting, validating, and analyzing SDG and Tribal Development data, integrating citizen-generated and official statistics to address data gaps and promote reliable development indicators. The Fellow will assist in developing knowledge products and communication materials such as presentations, briefing notes, case studies, and success stories, documenting good practices and lessons learned. Collaboration with UNDP and State teams is essential for documenting emerging insights, innovative practices, and evidence to inform SDG acceleration, tribal development, and policy discussions.
Work Experience
No specific work experience is required for this role. However, candidates should possess a demonstrated interest in the development sector. Excellent oral and written communication skills, strong drafting and reporting abilities, and interpersonal skills are essential. The ability to work inclusively and collaboratively with diverse partners, coupled with self-motivation and the capacity to work under tight deadlines with minimal supervision, is highly valued.
Skills
Key competencies include Accountability, Adaptability and Flexibility, Building Trust, Commitment and Motivation, Commitment to Continuous Learning, Communication, Creativity, Ethics and Values, Integrity, Planning and Organizing, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity, Self-Management, and Working in Teams. Technical skills in Data Science, Information Management, Artificial Intelligence, Knowledge Management, Research, Reporting, Statistics, and Population Science are desirable.