UNU-WIDER Opportunities

Organisational Unit : UNU-World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER) based in Helsinki, Finland

Reference Number  : 2008/UNU/RTC/WIDER/DIR/25

Address applications to:
UNU-WIDER Directorship Search Committee, C/O Office of the Rector, United Nations University, Headquarters, 53-70, Jingumae 5-chome, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-8925, Japan. 
(Fax: +81 3 3499 2828).  Nominations or letters of application, including full curriculum vitae (with publications list) and names and addresses and fax numbers of three referees should clearly indicate the above reference number.  A covering letter setting out how your qualifications and experience match the requirements of the position must also accompany the nomination/application. Email applications/nominations may be sent to: D-WIDER(at)hq.unu.edu. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

UNU Mission:
The UNU is an international community of scholars, engaged in research, postgraduate training and dissemination of knowledge in furthering the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations.  The mission of the UNU is to contribute, through research and capacity building, to efforts to resolve the pressing global problems that are the concern of the United Nations and its Member States.  Key goals are to serve as an international community of scholars; a bridge between the United Nations and the international academic community; and as a think-tank for the United Nations system;  to contribute to capacity building, particularly in developing countries; and to serve as a platform for new and creative ideas.

UNU-WIDER has an established track record of academic excellence and policy-oriented research on problems affecting the global economy and their consequences for specific country situations and at the international level. It undertakes applied research and policy analysis on structural changes affecting the developing and transitional economies, particularly as these changes affect the living conditions of the world's poorest people.  The Institute provides a forum for high-quality professional interaction and for the advocacy of policies leading to robust, equitable and environmentally sustainable growth.  It also promotes, on a selective basis, capacity strengthening and training in the field of economic and social policy making.

The Position:
The Director is the chief academic and administrative officer of the Institute and directs, organises, and administers the programmes of the Institute in accordance with the policies established by the advisory board and the UNU Council.

Required qualifications:
The successful candidate will have a Ph.D., preferably in economics or a related discipline, a strong background of research and publications on policy-related developmental issues and a proven record of leadership and management experience at a senior level in academic or other research institutions.  Candidates should have the ability to work with colleagues of diverse national and cultural backgrounds and a deep commitment to issues of human development and welfare.  Professional experience at a senior level in an international organization and familiarity with the UN system will be of value.  Fluency in English is essential and a working knowledge of other UN official languages is desirable.

Remuneration:
Approximate net salary: US$155,000 p.a. (single status) - $170,000 p.a. (with dependants) including post adjustment.  Post adjustment subject to change.

It is expected that the appointee will take up the position by April 2009.  Appointments are normally for a four-year term, with the possibility of renewal.  Applications from suitably qualified women candidates are particularly encouraged.

UNU-WIDER Vacancy announcement for Director L-7.pdf (19.36 kilobytes)

Also online at: United Nations University - Employment with UNU.