Science-Policy Visiting Fellow - Data Governance CSTD

Job Description

Science‑Policy Visiting Fellow – "Data Governance for Development:
From Asymmetry to Equitable Stewardship" under the Science‑Policy Interface (GSPI) and UNU‑CPR.

– Only candidates from the Global South may apply. Female candidates strongly encouraged.

Full‑time position based in Geneva requiring a minimum number of days in the office and availability for in‑person meetings. Remote work not accepted. Visa application and travel costs supported.

Duration: 6 months, non‑renewable. Consultant Contract (CTC). No entitlement to paid annual leave or sick leave.

Remuneration: CHF 5,500 per month plus a lump sum of CHF 3,000 for health insurance and other expenses. Initial travel to Geneva and return home covered. Fellows responsible for personal health insurance.

Expected start date: as soon as possible, but no later than mid‑July 2026.

• Research and Analysis: develop an analytical, policy‑relevant report on equitable and interoperable data governance frameworks addressing structural asymmetries for LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS. Formulate concrete policy recommendations to promote inclusive digital cooperation and shared prosperity.
• Science‑Policy Engagement: engage with STI and development actors (CSTD, UNODET, UNCTAD) and provide targeted briefings. Organize 1–2 workshops with scientific experts, diplomats, and civil‑society actors.
• Knowledge Development: produce a relevant academic article, contribute to internal knowledge sharing, and support evolution of the Fellowship programme.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

• Timely delivery of analytical report supporting CSTD Issues Note.
• Quality, relevance, uptake of policy recommendations in CSTD discussions and GDC implementation.
• Effectiveness of stakeholder engagement, including workshops and interactions.
• Strength of collaboration with UN entities, experts, and policy stakeholders.
• Contribution to science‑policy dialogue and knowledge outputs (academic publication and internal sharing).

• Values
  • Inclusion: create an environment of dignity and respect for all.
  • Integrity: act ethically, conform to UN standards.
  • Humility: demonstrate self‑awareness and willingness to learn.
  • Humanity: act in line with UN purposes of peace, dignity, equality.
• Behaviours
  • Connect and collaborate.
  • Analyse and plan.
  • Deliver results with positive impact.
  • Learn and develop.
  • Adapt and innovate.

Education and certification:

• PhD preferred; master’s degree plus professional experience acceptable.

Relevant Fields May Include:

• Economics, business, public policy, regulatory affairs, political economy, data science, artificial intelligence, quantitative modelling.

Requirements

• At least three (3) years of policy‑relevant research experience.
• Experience engaging with science and technology policy processes, preferably international or multilateral.
• Ability to produce analytical reports for non‑technical audiences.
• Independent work capacity and stakeholder collaboration.
• Experience in interdisciplinary environments.

Desirable skills and experience:

• Familiarity with data governance frameworks, digital development policy, or internet governance processes.
• Communicating complex technical concepts to policy audiences.
• Organizing multi‑stakeholder workshops.
• Knowledge of development challenges for LDCs, LLDCs, or SIDS.
• Professional level fluency in English; knowledge of another UN official language an asset.
• Only applicants holding citizenship from a Global South country are eligible.

Apply through the provided link. Attach a current CV (max two pages) and a cover letter (max one page) in English. Answers to a few position‑tailored questions are required.

Final date to receive applications:
Wednesday, 17 June 2026, 6 pm Geneva time. Applications reviewed on a rolling basis.

UNU is committed to diversity and inclusion. All candidates from the Global South, irrespective of gender, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities are encouraged to apply. UNU has a zero‑tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with UN objectives, including sexual exploitation, harassment, abuse, and discrimination.

UNU does not charge any application or recruitment fees. Disregard any solicitation for payment, and apply carefully with personal information on the web.