Research Assistant

Volunteering Communications & PR

Overview

Conduct substantive research and draft reports for NAFS.

You have:

• Conduct in-depth, policy-oriented research on socio-economic and governance issues, with particular focus on conflict-affected settings such as Syria.
• Previous experience in conducting research on Syria or other conflict affected countries is required, including on impact of sanctions is desirable.
• Knowledge of local assessments development is desirable.
• Familiarity with post-conflict governance, institutional development, and relevant frameworks is desirable.
• Proven ability to analyze and synthesize information from diverse sources.
• Previous experience and knowledge of United Nations Rules and Procedures is desirable.

Contract

This is a UNV National Youth contract. This kind of contract is known as National UN Volunteer. It is normally only for nationals. More about UNV National Youth contracts.

As part of its mandate to promote human development and democratic transition in the region, ESCWA has been implementing NAFS since 2012. Since, the NAFS Programme has served as an inclusive platform for technical dialogue between Syrians from all walks of life, regardless of their political affiliation, and is the only such platform to systematically assess the policy needs for a post-conflict Syria, empowering Syrians themselves to make that assessment. It has provided them a safe space where they can engage in discussions on the post-conflict development needs and trajectories of the country, to prevent and overcome a conflict trap, and strengthen the resilience of local structures over the medium and long term.

The Programme produces research and analysis that reflects the views, needs and priorities of Syrians and NAFS endeavours to share and disseminate its work as widely as possible and to convey the voices of its network of Syrians as much as possible. The programme’s outputs are aimed at Syrians both inside Syria and outside Syria, UN agencies working on the Syrian conflict, the political actors as well as the international community planning for the future of the country.

In the current phase, NAFS focuses on addressing the complex realities of post-conflict Syria, emphasizing the importance of participatory governance, economic recovery, and social cohesion. The programme's approach integrates technical expertise with local knowledge, ensuring that policy recommendations are grounded in the lived experiences of Syrians.

The objective of this contract is to conduct substantive research, based on primary and secondary sources, as part of the NAFS work on the different components and pillars and to draft substantive inputs to NAFS reports.

Within the delegated authority and under the supervision of the Programme Manager or his/her designated mandated representative(s), the UNV Research Assistant will:

• Conduct in-depth, policy-oriented research on socio-economic and governance issues, with particular focus on conflict-affected settings such as Syria. • Draft policy briefs, analytical reports, and research summaries to support advocacy, programming, and strategic planning efforts. • Analyze qualitative and quantitative data, using visuals and structured insights to identify key trends, disruptions, and developments—particularly those related to conflict dynamics and sanctions impacts. • Monitor current events, news, reports, and policy developments in Syria and the broader region, producing regular contextual updates. • Follow up on map tracker, local needs assessments, and city profiles, ensuring data is updated and integrated into broader research outputs. • Coordinate with local partners and stakeholders on research design, data collection, and policy engagement activities. • Assist the Programme Manager in preparing advocacy materials, meeting briefs, and other communications linked to ongoing research work. • Support the development of training agendas, expert selection processes, and coordination with trainers and specialists.

Accountability Adaptability and flexibility Planning and organising

research is required. Previous experience in conducting research on Syria or other conflict affected countries is required, including on impact of sanctions is desirable. Knowledge of local assessments development is desirable. Familiarity with post-conflict governance, institutional development, and relevant frameworks is desirable. Proven ability to analyze and synthesize information from diverse sources Previous experience and knowledge of United Nations Rules and Procedures is desirable.

As this is a national UN Volunteer assignment, the UN Volunteer will be responsible for arranging his/her own housing and other living essentials. This position is based in Beirut. National UN Volunteers are part of the malicious insurance plan. National UN Volunteers are expected to be culturally sensitive and adjust to the prevailing culture and traditions.

National UN Youth Volunteers in Lebanon are entitled to:

• Monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) at the amount of USD 1,285.24 • Annual and learning leaves; • Medical and life Insurance • Free access to different learning platforms.

For more information on UN Volunteer benefits, entitlements and support, please visit: https://www.unv.org/volunteer-your-country-conditions-service

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Potential interview questions

Added 1 year ago - Updated 1 year ago - Source: unv.org