SDG Research & Data Fellow
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 supports the government's 'whole-of-government' approach to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a focus on subnational SDG Coordination Centres and Technical Support Units. The SDG Acceleration and Finance Unit provides technical assistance to state governments for SDG achievement, development diagnostics, policy coherence, and innovative financing, with a particular emphasis on the socio-economic advancement of Scheduled Tribes.
Job Purpose
This role supports UNDP's SDG Acceleration and Finance Unit and state-level teams in India by conducting research, data analysis, and contributing to knowledge products. The UNV SDG Research & Data Fellow will assist in policy analysis, development diagnostics, monitoring frameworks, and data visualization, focusing on SDG acceleration, tribal rights, and development financing. The assignment aims to generate insights that inform state-level policies and programmes, ultimately advancing inclusive and sustainable development in line with the 'Leave No One Behind' principle. The Fellow will contribute to evidence generation and documentation of good practices to support these critical development initiatives.
Responsibilities
The UN Volunteer will support SDG-related initiatives through desk research, literature reviews, and policy scans to generate evidence and prepare briefing notes. Key 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 also assist in developing knowledge products and communication materials, such as presentations, 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 prior experience is required for this role. However, a demonstrated interest in the development sector is essential. Strong oral and written communication, drafting, and reporting skills are necessary. The candidate should possess excellent interpersonal skills, be culturally sensitive, and able to work inclusively with diverse partners. Self-motivation and the ability to work independently under tight deadlines are also important.
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.