Research Jobs at the United Nations University UNU
Research Jobs at the United Nations University UNU
The United Nations (UN) offers some of the most prestigious research-related job opportunities in the world. Whether you are an experienced researcher, a fresh graduate, or a policy analyst, the UN provides numerous openings in research roles that focus on global development, economic policies, climate change, human rights, and public health.
This guide explores everything you need to know about research jobs at the UN, from available positions and benefits to application tips and career growth. If you’re looking for the latest UN research jobs, visit Research Jobs Hub for timely updates.
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Featured Job: UNU-IIGH Research Consultancy (Remote, Malaysia)
About the United Nations University – International Institute for Global Health (UNU-IIGH)
The United Nations University International Institute for Global Health (UNU-IIGH) is one of 14 research and training institutes within the UN system. Established in 2005, UNU-IIGH focuses on evidence-based policy to address key global health and sustainable development challenges. The institute collaborates with academic institutions, policymakers, and civil society organizations to build knowledge and capacity in support of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
For more information, visit UNU-IIGH.
Open UNU Job: Research Consultant – Climate Justice and Health
Location: Remote (Based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
Organization: UNU-IIGH
Duration: 4 months
Deadline to Apply: 2 April 2025
The UNU-IIGH is seeking a Research Consultant to support its Climate Justice and Health work package. This role involves conducting research, literature reviews, and stakeholder mapping to contribute to the WHO project on Operationalizing Epistemic Justice in Climate and Health Research in Southeast Asia.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct a scoping literature review on climate justice and health equity to explore different contextualized perspectives and equity-oriented policy pathways.
- Perform a stakeholder and research landscape mapping review on epistemic justice in climate and health research, particularly in Southeast Asia.
- Contribute to UNU-IIGH’s ongoing research initiatives in climate and health policy.
- Collaborate with global research institutions and UN agencies.
Required Qualifications
- PhD in a relevant field (e.g., Public Health, Social Sciences, Climate Studies, Global Health Policy).
- At least 3 years of progressive research experience in climate and health-related fields.
- Strong understanding of ethical and epistemic justice issues in global health research.
- Demonstrated ability to translate complex research into policy recommendations.
- Excellent writing and analytical skills.
- Fluency in English is required.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working with civil society organizations (CSOs) and academic institutions.
- Background in decolonial, feminist, or gender and health research.
- Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
Expected Deliverables
- 01 May 2025: Study and methodological outline for the two research reviews.
- 01 July 2025: Draft article on climate justice and health equity perspectives.
- 01 August 2025: Draft article on stakeholder and research landscape for epistemic justice in climate and health (SEA region).
Compensation and Conditions
- Remuneration will be commensurate with experience and paid based on a daily rate.
- No entitlement to UN staff benefits (annual leave, sick leave, etc.).
- The consultant will not hold international civil service status.
- Work is fully remote, but collaboration with teams in Malaysia and other UN partners is required.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following:
- Completed UNU P11 Form (available on UNU websites).
- Motivation statement explaining suitability for the role.
- Responses to tailored application questions.
For full details and to apply, visit UNU Careers before the 2 April 2025 deadline.
Other Research Jobs Available at the UN
Research-related jobs at the UN vary widely across its agencies. Here are some of the most common categories:
1. Economic and Development Research
- Conducting research on global economic trends, poverty alleviation, and policy development.
- Organizations hiring: UNU-WIDER, UNDP, UNECA, UNCTAD
2. Environmental and Climate Research
- Researching sustainability, climate change, and conservation policies.
- Organizations hiring: UNEP, UNFCCC, FAO, UNDP
3. Human Rights and Social Policy Research
- Investigating issues such as gender equality, labor rights, and social justice.
- Organizations hiring: OHCHR, UN Women, UNICEF, UNHCR
4. Public Health and Epidemiology Research
- Studying global health trends, disease outbreaks, and healthcare access.
- Organizations hiring: WHO, UNAIDS, UNFPA
5. Data Science and Policy Research
- Collecting and analyzing data for evidence-based decision-making.
- Organizations hiring: UN Global Pulse, UNESCO, WFP
6. Peace and Security Research
- Analyzing conflict prevention, peacekeeping strategies, and security policies.
- Organizations hiring: UNODA, UNDP, DPO
How to Stay Updated on UN Research Jobs
1. Find the Right Opportunities
- Regularly check UN job portals such as:
- Visit Research Jobs Hub for hand-picked research job listings.
2. Get Instant Updates
Join our WhatsApp Group to receive real-time job alerts and research opportunities.
Conclusion
A research job at the UN can be a fulfilling and impactful career path. With a range of opportunities in economics, social policy, public health, and climate research, the UN offers positions that contribute to global development.
Stay ahead by frequently checking Research Jobs Hub for the latest UN research job postings and join our WhatsApp Group for real-time updates.
