Research Analyst Economics

United Nations Development Programme; Dubai; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

An international development organization in Dubai is seeking a Research Analyst to conduct economic research and data analysis. The role involves leading financial data collection and producing analytical reports, contributing to policy discussions, and overseeing project contributions. Candidates should have a Master's degree in Economics or related fields, with proficiency in data analysis tools and strong analytical skills. The position provides an opportunity to influence knowledge-based development initiatives across Arab States.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Diverse and inclusive workplace

Qualifications

• Advanced university degree in a relevant field is required.
• Minimum of two years of work experience in economic research and data analysis.
• Strong proficiency in data collection and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct quantitative and econometric analyses on economic factors.
• Lead the collection, verification, and analysis of economic data.
• Design and produce analytical reports and policy briefs.

Skills

Economic research

Data analysis

Statistical software proficiency

Policy development

Research skills

Education

Advanced university degree (Master’s) in Economics, Econometrics, Statistics, or related field

Tools

Statistical software

Job description

Description

Background

The project was initiated in 2008 as a collaboration between UNDP’s Regional Bureau for Arab States and the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF). Its goal is to independently analyse and monitor trends and issues affecting knowledge and Arab countries, and beyond. It supports Arab States in developing knowledge‑based societies by producing high‑quality publications such as the Global Knowledge Index (GKI) and Future of Knowledge Foresight Reports, and by facilitating exchanges through regular high‑level forums such as the Knowledge Summit and Knowledge response to evolving needs in increasingly knowledge‑based economies. The project also hosts the FutureSkills4All initiative dedicated to skills development for the digital economy and future labour markets.

Scope of Work

The Research Analyst will work under the guidance of the Project Research and Communications Specialist and will focus on economic research to support the revision of the GKI and contribute to discussions on economic and human capital development. Key responsibilities include:

1. Research and Analysis

• Conduct quantitative and econometric analyses on various economic factors.
• Utilise advanced statistical techniques and models to analyse data, including regression analysis, time series and forecasting.
• Contribute to thinkpieces, policy briefs and empirical research on economic trends and policies.
• Coordinate and prepare ad‑hoc thematic and substantive reports, analysis and briefs as requested.
• Develop strategic analysis using large economic and development datasets.
• Contribute substantively to the knowledge‑product creation process, ensuring data‑driven insights are clearly and compellingly presented.
• Contribute to the development of knowledge and innovation initiatives for different contexts on key emerging policy agendas in collaboration with policy teams at HQ, the Regional Hubs and country offices.

2. Data Collection and Management

• Lead the collection, verification and analysis of economic data.
• Develop robust methodologies for data collection and econometric analysis.
• Ensure data integrity and accuracy for all economic‑related project outputs.

3. Knowledge Product Development

• Design and produce analytical reports, policy briefs and data visualisations that highlight economic trends and insights.
• Collaborate on the production of the GKI and other indices, ensuring they incorporate comprehensive economic analyses.
• Identify and coordinate the work of advisory board members and consultants, including drafting and reviewing terms of reference (ToRs), requests for proposals (RfPs) and work specifications to maintain high standards of project outputs.
• Oversee and ensure the quality of contributions from consultants to align with project standards and objectives.

4. Policy Advice and Project Support

• Provide expert advice on economic policies and strategies.
• Apply integrated multidisciplinary approaches, including coordinating and engaging with advisory board members and consultants to meet knowledge and innovation needs.
• Coordinate advisory board meetings that provide technical expertise in the revision process.
• Analyse data used in the construction of the GKI and other indices as needed, including variables, weights, pillars and sectors and normalization techniques.
• Explore innovative ideas implemented in other composite indices.
• Examine the structure of the GKI, assess effectiveness, explore potential changes and propose enhancements.
• Identify potential advisory board members and assist in commissioning and coordinating their work, where requested, and comment on their draft papers.
• Mobilise consultants to initiate activities, including drafting and reviewing terms of reference (ToRs), requests for proposals (RfPs) and work specifications.
• Develop and use rosters of pre‑qualified consultants, IPs and other service providers to support project outputs and activities.
• Oversee the work of national and international consultants that support project implementation.
• Supervise and manage project personnel and consultants, establishing performance objectives and standards and ensuring timely and appropriate feedback, guidance and support to ensure optimum performance.

5. Event and Workshop Coordination

• Organise and facilitate workshops, seminars and conferences focused on economic themes.
• Develop content and coordinate logistics for these events to ensure productive discussions and outcomes.

The incumbent performs other duties within their functional profile as deemed necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.

Institutional Arrangement

The Research Analyst will report to the Project Research and Communications Specialist and collaborate closely with regional and global teams to ensure alignment and integration of research activities.

Competencies

• Core Achieve Results – Level 2: Set and align challenging achievable objectives for multiple projects with lasting impact.
• Think Innovatively – Level 2: Proactively mitigate potential risks, develop new ideas to solve complex problems.
• Learn Continuously – Level 2: Create and act on opportunities to expand horizons, diversify experiences.
• Adapt with Agility – Level 2: Proactively initiate and champion change, manage multiple competing demands.
• Act with Determination – Level 2: Think beyond immediate task/barriers and take action to achieve greater results.
• Engage and Partner – Level 2: Navigate complex landscapes, champion inter‑agency collaboration.
• Enable Diversity and Inclusion – Level 2: Appreciate the benefits of a diverse workforce and champion inclusivity.
• Thematic Area: Data Analysis, Digital, Business Direction & Strategy, System Thinking, Business Development, Knowledge Generation, Business Management, Communication, Partnership Management and Relationship Management.

Minimum Qualifications of the Successful IPSA

• Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Economics, Econometrics, Statistics, Social Sciences or a related field is required. A Bachelor’s degree with two additional years of qualifying experience will be considered in lieu of a Master’s.
• Minimum of two (for Master’s) or four (for Bachelor’s) years of work experience in economic research, data analysis and policy development in social sciences and economics.
• Strong proficiency in data collection and statistical software, and excellent research, analytical and data‑management skills.
• Desired skills: Proven experience in a similar position within leading local, regional or international organisations; experience working in the Arab States region; background in report development; proficiency in econometric modelling.
• Required languages: Fluency in Arabic and English. Knowledge of French is an asset.

Required Documents

• Personal CV or P11 indicating all past positions held, main functions, durations (month/year), qualifications and contact details (email and telephone number); at least three most recent professional references from previous supervisors, peers also acceptable.
• A cover letter (maximum length: 1 page) indicating why the candidate considers themselves suitable for the position.
• Managers may ask (ad hoc) for additional materials relevant to evaluating the relevance of experience such as reports, presentations, publications, campaigns or other materials.

Annexes to the ToR

Opportunity: As an equal‑opportunity employer, UNDP values diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply for roles in the organization. Employment decisions are based on merit and suitability for the role without discrimination.

UNDP is also committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, are valued, can thrive and benefit from career opportunities that are open to all.

Sexual Harassment, Exploitation and Abuse of Authority: UNDP does not tolerate harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination and abuse of authority. All selected candidates therefore undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the respective standards and principles.

Right to select multiple candidates: UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement. We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.

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Required Experience

IC