Overview
Economic Affairs Officer responsible for research and analysis on science, technology, and innovation in least developed countries, contributing to policy formulation and technical cooperation activities.
Tasks Summary
- Designs and conducts research and analyses on science, technology and innovation and technological needs in the least developed countries.
- Monitors, assesses and reports on persistent and emerging issues in science, technology and innovation and technology transfer.
- Develops databases and qualitative information relevant for assignments pertaining to science, technology and innovation.
- Interprets, applies and adapts econometric models to determine trends, patterns and relationships.
- Drafts specified inputs for technical papers and analytical studies.
- Keeps abreast of latest trends and developments in the area of assignment.
- Identifies and analyses policy proposals relating to digital transformation, emerging technologies and science, technology and innovation.
- Attends and makes presentations in international, regional, and national meetings.
- Assists in the organization and servicing of expert group meetings, seminars, etc. on science, technology and innovation.
- Prepares speeches and other inputs for presentations by senior staff.
- Prepares inputs for reports to intergovernmental bodies on science, technology and innovation.
- Assists in the organization of panels, round tables etc. on issues pertaining to sustainable technological development.
- Represents the organization at international, regional and national meetings.
- Participates in technical cooperation activities and missions.
- Researches and develops project proposals for technical cooperation programmes.
- Manages the implementation of technical cooperation projects.
- Performs other related duties as required.
- Supports junior staff, reviewing their work and providing feedback.
- Undertakes on-the-job and other training activities.
- Collects and analyzes data to identify trends or patterns and provide insights.
Experience Requirements
- A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, policy formulation, application of economic principles in development programmes, including areas related to science, technology and innovation, is required.
- Experience providing policy analysis or advisory to government counterparts in developing countries, particularly least developed countries, on issues related to science, technology and innovation is required.
- Experience in conducting independent research on science, technology and innovation topics, including assessing the suitability, validity and accuracy of data from multiple sources is desirable.
- Field experience conducting substantive missions or implementing science, technology or innovation programmes in Africa or in least developed countries is desirable.
- Two years or more of experience working in the United Nations Common System or a similar multilateral institution is desirable.
- 2 years or more of experience in data analytics or related area is desirable.
Qualification Requirements
Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics, science, technology and innovation or related field. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
