Research Associate (PSA-3)

United Nations University; Bonn; On-site; EUR 60,000 - 86,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

30 days annual leave

Health insurance

Job summary

United Nations University – Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU‑EHS) in Bonn invites applications for a position focused on wellbeing and equity research within the WE division. The role supports development of transformative research frameworks and contributes to funding proposals with colleagues across divisions.

You will advance topics at the interface of policy, science and practice. The successful candidate will pursue a PhD topic in well-being and equity, work toward doctoral

Qualifications

• Familiarity with concepts and frameworks in transformation, well-being and equity.
• Familiarity with related multi-method approaches, with deeper knowledge either on qualitative or quantitative methods.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong communication skills, including academic writing and the ability to present research findings to diverse audiences.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the development of research frameworks supporting WE and UNU-EHS Transformation Department.
• Advance topics including GDP discourse and socio-ecological models for well-being and equity.
• Support theory and policy development, linking to risk, adaptation, and transformation research.
• Design, review and apply qualitative, quantitative, and creative research methods for transformative research.

Skills

Familiarity with transformation/well‑b

Multi-method approaches

Independent working

Academic writing

Education

Master's degree in scientific field

Job description

United Nations University (UNU)

The United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organization within the United Nations System. UNU engages in policy-relevant research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination in furtherance of the purposes and principles of the United Nations. The work of UNU contributes to solving pressing global problems that are the concern of the United Nations and its Member States.

For the past five decades, UNU has been a source of impartial research on sustainability, human security, and economic development. With hundreds of researchers working at institutes in 12 countries, UNU's expertise spans the full breadth of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, generating policy-relevant knowledge to effect positive global change. UNU collaborates closely with other UN entities and leading research institutions across the globe. For more information, please visit http://unu.edu

UNU-EHS is one of 13 research and training Institutes that comprise the think tanks in the UNU system.

UNU-EHS

The United Nations University’s Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) was established in 2003 in Bonn, Germany. The institute conducts research work focusing on advancing human security and well-being by addressing present and future risks arising from environmental hazards and climate change. Its main areas of work are risk & adaptation and transformation. In addition to its research activities, UNU-EHS offers educational opportunities at the master’s level and hosts a number of international PhD projects and capacity-development courses on global issues related to environmental risks and sustainable development. More information about UNU‑EHS can be found here: https://unu.edu/ehs.

Well-being and Equity (WE) Division

“Well-being and Equity (WE)” is a pioneering science-to-policy research area of the United Nations University – Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS). WE aspires towards a holistic assessment of the preconditions for well-being, sustainability and equity, including leveraging on different knowledge systems that go beyond current predominantly monetary assessments. To transform towards a WE society, this emerging initiative intends to bring together a broad range of interdisciplinary scientific expertise and diverse knowledge necessary to understand the interface between well-being, sustainability and equity. The division aims to develop holistic data and policy models to weigh all dimensions of well-being, sustainability and equity for decision makers; leverage change towards a sustainable and equitable society focusing on well-being and to develop a compelling narrative for a holistic framework.

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Responsibilities

Under the authority of the Director of UNU-EHS and the direct supervision of the Academic Officer (Head of FAST), the successful candidate will be entrusted with the following tasks:

• Contribute to the development of research frameworks supporting the strategic approach of WE and UNU-EHS’ Transformation Department;
• Contribute to advancing innovative research topics including, but not limited to GDP discourse, alternative socio-ecological models and approaches for assessing well-being and equity;
• Contribute to theory and policy development, including identifying linkages to risk, adaptation, and transformation research and related frameworks to actively build connections to other divisions within UNU-EHS;
• Support the design, review, and application of qualitative, quantitative, and creative research methodologies for transformative research on well-being and equity.

• Support the establishment and development of the Well-being Alliance for Research, Policy and Practice through the coordination of assigned activities, meetings and events, and by engaging stakeholders and partners to strengthen the division's global network; Assist senior staff in identifying and evaluating funding opportunities from various sources and in compiling and maintaining information on funding trends, donor priorities, and emerging opportunities;
• Contribute to and support the Head of Division and/or PI in the preparation and drafting of project proposals to different donors and partners, liaising with partners and consortium set-up;
• Contribute to the implementation of new projects by performing assigned research and reporting as needed.

• Identify and develop a PhD topic within the field of well-being and equity in consultation with the supervisor;
• Develop the related methodology in consultation with the supervisor;
• Enroll in the doctoral program currently being established by University of Bonn and UNU-EHS;
• Develop and carry out PhD research activities in agreement with the supervisors;
• Participate in doctoral training, coursework, seminars and relevant capacity-building activities as required by the division.

• Identify and screen relevant funding opportunities and call for proposals aligned with the established areas of work;
• Assist in the preparation and drafting of selected sections of project proposals and other funding-related materials;
• Support communication and follow-up with donors and relevant counterparts regarding requirements, processes and application procedures.

• Lead the preparation of scientific publications required for the completion of the PhD and draft or contribute to peer-reviewed journals, scientific reports and other research outputs;
• Support the presentation of project results at scientific and policy-relevant conferences and present own findings in events geared towards young scientists;
• Contribute to knowledge products such as policy briefs, outreach materials, and digital resources.

• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor(s)

Key Performance Indicators

• Timely and high-quality delivery of assigned research activities and respective publications.
• Timely and high-quality achievement of PhD milestones according to the requirements
• Contribute to project, institute and UNU mission
• UNU and WE division are seen as a reliable and trustworthy partner by partners and donors

Competencies

Values:

• Inclusion - Take action to create an environment of dignity and respect for all, regardless of age, culture, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, geography, grade, language, nationality, racial identity, religion, sex, sex characteristics, sexual orientation, social origin or any other aspect of identity;
• Integrity - Act ethically, demonstrating the standards of conduct of the United Nations and taking prompt action in case of witnessing unprofessional or unethical behaviour, or any other breach of UN standards;
• Humility - Demonstrate self-awareness and willingness to learn from others;
• Humanity - Act according to the purposes of the United Nations: peace, dignity and equality on a healthy planet.

Behaviours:

• Connect and Collaborate - Build positive relationships with others to advance the work of the United Nations and work coherently as One UN;
• Analyse and Plan - Seek out and use data from a wide range of sources to understand problems, inform decision-making, propose evidence-based solutions and plan action;
• Deliver Results with Positive Impact - Hold oneself and others accountable for delivering results and making a positive difference to the people and causes that the United Nations serves;
• Learn and Develop - Pursue own learning and development and contribute to the learning and development of others;
• Adapt and Innovate - Demonstrate flexibility, agility and the ability to think and act in novel ways.

1) Education and certification

Master's degree or equivalent in a scientific discipline relevant for the thematic areas of WE that qualifies the candidate for doctoral admission.

2) Required qualifications and experience

• Familiarity with concepts and frameworks in transformation, well-being and equity research;
• Familiarity with related multi-method approaches, with deeper knowledge either on qualitative or quantitative methods;
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams;
• Strong communication skills, including academic writing and the ability to present research findings to diverse audiences.

3) Desired qualifications and experience

• One (1) year of relevant professional or research experience;
• Experience in transdisciplinary and international projects;
• Familiarity with Futures Literacy and creative methodologies such as using art, music or any other form of art for convening and research;
• Ability to generate novel research and think out of the box;
• Familiarity with different forms of knowledge, including but not limited to indigenous knowledge;
• Familiarity with supporting multi-actor networks;
• Familiarity with writing project proposals;
• Team player with strong interpersonal skills, initiative seeker, strong conceptual and drafting ability.

4) Language Requirements:

• Fluency in English is required;
• Good knowledge in any additional language, especially German is an asset;
• Good knowledge of the language spoken in the location of the intended PhD project is an asset.

Remuneration

The successful candidate will be employed under a national PSA contract. UNU offers an attractive compensation package including an annual net salary, commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the candidate. Benefits include 30 days annual leave and a health insurance scheme.

UNU is not liable for any taxes that may be levied on the remuneration you receive under this contract. Payment of any such taxes remains the sole responsibility of PSA holders.

Duration of contract

The duration of the initial contract is 1 year. This is Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) contract with UNU, with the possibility for renewal subject to requirements and satisfactory work performance. The combined duration on a PSA contract with UNU may not exceed six (6) years. The mandatory age of retirement for PSA holders is 65 years.This post is open to applicants from all countries and UNU will aid the successful applicant in securing a work visa for Germany, as necessary. It is, however, a locally recruited post and no relocation allowances apply. The duty station will be Bonn, Germany.

Starting date: As soon as possible

Submissions must be received by 23:59 CET on the deadline; late entries will not be accepted.

Application Deadline: 09 November 2026.

Submissions must be received by 23:59 CET on the deadline; late entries will not be accepted.

Assessment

Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by a competency-based interview, background checks, and references.

Special Notice

PSA holders are neither “staff members” under the Staff Regulations and Rules of the United Nations nor “officials” for the purpose of the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations (1946). They are subject to the Rector's authority and may be assigned to any of the activities or offices of the United Nations University. The Rector reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a level below that advertised. UNU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities to apply and become part of the organisation. Applications from developing countries, and from women are strongly encouraged. Eligible internal applicants are also encouraged to apply. UNU has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNU, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination. If you have supervisory function, you need to have awareness on gender related issues.

Information about UNU rosters

UNU 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 with UNU at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.