Research Assistant (Data Analyst)

Contract

This is a Consultancy contract. More about Consultancy contracts.

Result of Service

The incumbent is responsible to deliver the following: - Data schemas, Excel sheet of the collected data; Excel sheet of the collected information pertaining to policies; - Short draft methodological notes, draft parliamentary documents, draft presentation, draft training material, draft briefs and finding reports (5-10 pages each), and notes regarding the implemented data collection, hygiene and preparation techniques; - The completed parts should be edited and saved in MS-Word (*.docx file) or an alternate relevant format. The Individual Contractor shall not publish or announce or reveal the content of the substantive work carried, partly or entirely, on social media or any other public channel, without ESCWA permission.

Work Location

UN-House ESCWA

Expected duration

4 Months

Duties and Responsibilities

Background: The services of the Individual Contractor (IC) are needed to carry out research and analyses, applying up-to-date data analysis techniques, assist ICTS team in the development of technical materials, products and tools using machine learning and artificial intelligence techniques. The IC will work under the supervision of the team lead, and the Cluster Leader (ICTS/RMSDD). Duties and Responsibilities: 1. Methodology Identification and Data Compilation: Demonstrate advanced proficiency in identifying the methodologies behind selected international indices, possessing an in-depth understanding of the underlying indicators and models used for scoring and ranking. Showcase expertise in collecting, organizing, and managing both historical and recent data with precision, utilizing advanced techniques in compiling data in Excel sheets. Additionally, exhibit the ability to develop sophisticated simulators for the selected index. 2. Data Collection, Cleaning, and Analysis: Acquire data from primary and secondary sources with exceptional skill, showcasing mastery in filtering, cleaning, and validating data to ensure impeccable accuracy and consistency. Demonstrate a keen aptitude in swiftly identifying and resolving errors and inconsistencies in data and calculations. Proficiency in performing intricate data cleaning procedures and handling complex datasets is paramount. 3. Database Development and IT Collaboration: Lead the development and implementation of databases and data collection systems, demonstrating expertise in optimizing statistical efficiency and quality to the highest standards. Display the ability to format datasets according to programming requirements with finesse and collaborate seamlessly with IT teams. Additionally, contribute significantly to the development and testing of online platforms and products, including the creation and management of automated data pipelines in a cloud computing environment. 4. Understanding of Economic and Machine Learning Models: Showcase proficiency in comprehending basic economic principles and models, enabling the candidate to analyze the economic implications of data trends and policy recommendations effectively. Additionally, demonstrate a foundational understanding of machine learning models, allowing for the integration of data-driven insights into decision-making processes. Ability to interpret data within an economic context and leverage machine learning techniques to derive actionable insights for policy development and decision-making. 5. Substantive Work and Reporting: Exhibit exceptional skills in interpreting data and conducting advanced statistical analyses, providing comprehensive reports with meticulous monitoring and refinement. Showcase the capability to draft concise yet insightful reports covering key findings and policy recommendations for selected Arab countries. Additionally, demonstrate proficiency in preparing methodological notes, parliamentary documents, training materials, and other required documents to the highest standards. 6. Policy Research and Library Development: Demonstrate advanced knowledge and expertise in collecting information on policies and best practices for individual indicators and benchmarks for Arab countries. Prepare a comprehensive library of policies based on rigorous desk reviews for the ISPAR platform, showcasing advanced research and analytical skills in identifying and synthesizing relevant information effectively. 7. Training and Capacity Building: Exhibit exemplary skills in designing material and delivering training sessions tailored precisely to the diverse needs of member states. Demonstrate outstanding communication and presentation abilities, preparing training materials that effectively convey complex information in accessible formats and utilizing cutting-edge technological tools. Showcase adaptability and cultural sensitivity in engaging with representatives from diverse backgrounds, facilitating impactful knowledge exchange sessions. 8. Carry on ad hoc assignments as requested by the supervisor(s).

Qualifications/special skills

A Bachelor’s degree in International Economics, Finance, Statistics or related area is required. All candidates must submit a copy of the required educational degree. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. A minimum of 3 years of professional work experience in mini-projects in technology related areas is required. Experience in the development of online platform and tools for policy making is required. Knowledge in international indices development is desirable.

Languages

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat; and Arabic is a working language of ESCWA. For this position, fluency in English is required and knowledge of French is desirable. Note: “Fluency” equals a rating of ‘fluent’ in all four areas (speak, read, write, and understand) and “Knowledge of” equals a rating of ‘confident’ in two of the four areas.

Additional Information

Recruitment for this position is on a local basis. The incumbent is required to have the legal right to live and work in the specified working location.

No Fee

THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.