United Nations University Research Associate (PSA-3) 2026 in Germany: Research, Well-being and Equity Opportunity with PhD Development

The United Nations University (UNU) is inviting applications for the Research Associate (PSA-3) position at the United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) in Bonn, Germany. This opportunity is open to applicants from all countries and is suitable for qualified candidates interested in well-being, equity, sustainability, public policy, and interdisciplinary research.

The position combines professional research responsibilities with doctoral research development, project proposal writing, stakeholder engagement, and scientific communication. The successful candidate will contribute to the Well-being and Equity (WE) Division, which focuses on developing research and policy approaches that promote human well-being, sustainability, and social equity.

Application deadline: 9 November 2026, at 23:59 CET.

About the United Nations University (UNU)

The United Nations University is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organisation within the United Nations System. It conducts policy-relevant research, supports capacity development, and disseminates knowledge to address pressing global challenges.

Through its international research network, UNU contributes to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and collaborates with other UN entities and leading research institutions to advance sustainable development, human security, and economic progress.

The UNU-EHS institute, established in Bonn in 2003, focuses on advancing human security and well-being by addressing risks associated with environmental hazards and climate change.

About the Research Associate Position

The Research Associate will work within UNU-EHS’s Well-being and Equity Division, supporting research into alternative approaches to measuring societal progress, social equity, sustainability, and transformation.

The position offers an opportunity to contribute to international research while developing an academic profile through doctoral studies in a programme being established by the University of Bonn and UNU-EHS.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be expected to:

• Contribute to research frameworks and theory development concerning well-being, equity, sustainability, and societal transformation.
• Support qualitative, quantitative, and creative research methodologies.
• Assist in identifying funding opportunities and preparing project proposals.
• Coordinate assigned activities, meetings, and events involving research partners and stakeholders.
• Support donor communication and the development of research partnerships.
• Develop a PhD research topic and methodology in consultation with supervisors.
• Participate in doctoral training, coursework, seminars, and relevant capacity-building activities.
• Prepare scientific publications, peer-reviewed journal articles, research reports, and policy briefs.
• Present research findings at scientific and policy-related conferences.
• Contribute to digital resources and outreach materials that communicate research findings to wider audiences.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must hold a master’s degree or equivalent in a scientific discipline relevant to well-being and equity research and must qualify for doctoral admission.

Candidates should also demonstrate:

• Familiarity with transformation, well-being, and equity research concepts.
• Knowledge of multi-method research approaches, with deeper expertise in qualitative or quantitative methods.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong academic writing, research, and communication skills.
• Ability to present research findings to diverse audiences.

Desirable Qualifications

The following would strengthen an application:

• At least one year of relevant professional or research experience.
• Experience working on international or transdisciplinary projects.
• Familiarity with Futures Literacy and creative research methodologies.
• Knowledge of diverse knowledge systems, including indigenous knowledge.
• Experience supporting multi-stakeholder networks.
• Familiarity with research proposal writing.
• Strong interpersonal, conceptual, drafting, and problem-solving skills.

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Language Requirements

Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of an additional language, particularly German, is an advantage. Familiarity with the language spoken in the location of the intended PhD project is also desirable.

Salary, Benefits, and Contract Duration

The successful applicant will receive an annual net salary commensurate with their qualifications and experience.

The advertised benefits include:

• 30 days of annual leave.
• A health insurance scheme.
• Assistance with obtaining a German work visa, where necessary.

The initial contract is for one year, with the possibility of renewal depending on organisational requirements and satisfactory performance. The total duration of employment under a UNU Personnel Service Agreement may not exceed six years.

The position is based on-site in Bonn, Germany. Although applicants from all countries may apply, this is a locally recruited position, and relocation allowances are not provided.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply through the official vacancy page and complete the required application materials.

Applicants must:

1. Complete the UNU P11 Form, using the form specified by UNU.
2. Provide a motivation statement within the P11 Form.
3. Submit a cover letter explaining how their qualifications and experience match the position.
4. Answer the questions specifically designed for the vacancy.
5. Submit the application before the deadline.

The selection process may include an assessment exercise, a competency-based interview, background checks, and reference checks.

Application deadline: 9 November 2026, at 23:59 CET. Late applications will not be accepted.

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Conclusion

The UNU Research Associate position in Germany offers qualified candidates an opportunity to contribute to international research on well-being, equity, sustainability, and societal transformation while developing their academic profile through doctoral research.

Candidates with relevant master’s-level qualifications, strong research and writing skills, and an interest in interdisciplinary policy research are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and prepare their applications carefully.

Applicants should submit all required documents before 9 November 2026 at 23:59 CET and use the official United Nations University recruitment channels to apply.

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