Research Analyst jobs in Canada

The Knowledge Project is a joint initiative between UNDP's Regional Bureau for Arab States and the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF), established in 2008 to produce high‑quality knowledge products and promote knowledge sharing and dialogue.

In 2021 the project revisited the Global Knowledge Index, revamped the knowledge4all portal and mobile application, produced the third and final edition of the Future of Knowledge Foresight Report series, and organized Knowtalks. In 2023 the team will begin a pilot implementation of the Regional Skills Initiative, which seeks to strengthen the link between skills development and poverty reduction by equipping talents with core employability, soft, digital and technical skills.

The pilot targets approximately 5,500 Arab learners from eight countries over a 16‑month period starting January 2023, conducting workshops to align with employers’ needs and tailor curricula to emerging skill demands.

Under the direct supervision of the Chief Technical Adviser and Project Manager, the Project and Research Analyst will manage and coordinate project activities, provide capacity‑building expertise, and facilitate partnerships with UNDP country offices, the private and public sectors, educational institutions, and entrepreneurs.

• Provide analytical and strategic support to ensure successful implementation of the Skills Initiative.
• Develop innovative approaches to address the skills gap in the Arab States, aligning with project objectives.
• Establish and activate collaboration mechanisms with national and international experts to review and enhance skills strategies.
• Support design, strategy, and proposal development, ensuring documents offer strategic recommendations.
• Represent the initiative at national, regional, and international venues.
• Coordinate with similar UNDP initiatives to foster synergies and knowledge sharing.

• Develop a comprehensive research strategy, defining key areas, methodologies, and timelines.
• Collect and analyze relevant data to map the skills landscape and employment trends.
• Produce analytical and outreach products to identify gaps and opportunities.
• Support mapping activities, including skill gaps, stakeholder and ecosystem assessments.
• Document best practices and lessons from global youth skilling programs.
• Use findings to inform evidence‑based policies and programmes.
• Contribute to a knowledge‑sharing framework for stakeholders.
• Facilitate workshops, seminars, and conferences for knowledge dissemination.
• Enhance partnerships with academic, research, and think‑tank institutions.
• Assist in developing MEAL frameworks and impact assessment tools.
• Maintain a robust knowledge‑management system, ensuring easy access for the team and stakeholders.
• Promote continuous learning and evidence‑based improvement.

• Monitor initiative progress, identifying successes and challenges.
• Support timely reporting and compliance with deadlines.
• Act as focal point with course providers.
• Strengthen relations with partners, stakeholders, and beneficiaries.
• Forge new alliances with public and private sectors.
• Prepare funding proposals and donor briefings to mobilize resources.

• Use varied communication channels to raise awareness.
• Support corporate and advocacy efforts, sharing updates with stakeholders.
• Disseminate project‑related information to maintain transparency.

• Ensure team alignment with initiative goals and collaborative work.
• Foster inclusion and diversity within the team.
• Maintain transparent communication of progress, changes, and decisions.
• Create a supportive work environment that values collaboration.
• Facilitate safe spaces for concern expression and resolution.
• Organize teambuilding activities and workshops.
• Support professional growth through training and access to resources.

The selected Project and Research Analyst will report to the Chief Technical Adviser/Project Manager and supervise the Research and Coordination Associate and Project Assistant.

Core Competencies include Achieve Results, Think Innovatively, Learn Continuously, Adapt with Agility, Act with Determination, Engage and Partner, and Enable Diversity and Inclusion.

Cross‑Functional & Technical competencies cover Digital and Innovation, Business Direction & Strategy, System Thinking, Business Development, Knowledge Generation, Business Management, Communication, Partnership Management, Relationship Management, Prosperity, and Inclusive Growth.

• Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in education, social sciences, economics, business administration, or related field.
• Bachelor’s degree with at least two additional years of qualifying experience may substitute for a Master’s.

• Minimum of two years (Master’s) or four years (Bachelor’s) in policy research and advocacy related to social science skills development, upskilling, reskilling, and employment.

• Excellent computer literacy (MS Office, Windows, Internet).
• Excellent report writing and analytical skills.

• Proven experience in a similar position in UN agencies or international organizations.
• Extensive experience working in the Arab States region.
• Experience in skilling, workforce development, livelihoods or employability programmes and initiatives, technical or higher education, online programmes.
• Technical knowledge of MOOC and online education systems and platforms.
• Experience in building and maintaining partnerships and collaborations.

• Fluency in both oral and written English and Arabic.
• Knowledge of French is a strong asset.

As an equal opportunity employer, UNDP values diversity and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. Employment decisions are based on merit and suitability for the role without discrimination.

UNDP does not tolerate harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination and abuse of authority. Selected candidates undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the respective standards and principles.

UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates. It may also retain applications and consider candidates for other similar positions at the same grade level.

UNDP does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process. For further information please see.