Apply for Policy Research Fellowship at UN University International Institute for Global Health (UNU-IIGH)

About the United Nations University (UNU)
The United Nations University (UNU) is an international network of scholars engaged in policy-driven research aimed at resolving critical global issues. For over four decades, UNU has been a trusted think tank in areas such as human survival, conflict prevention, sustainable development, and global welfare. Operating with a team of over 400 researchers across 12 countries, UNU’s research spans the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Collaborating with more than 200 institutions globally, UNU plays a pivotal role in driving policy change to address pressing global challenges.
Learn more: unu.edu

About UNU-IIGH
The UNU International Institute for Global Health (UNU-IIGH) is one of 14 research and training institutes within the UNU system. Based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and established in 2005, UNU-IIGH focuses on advancing policy that promotes sustainable development and global health. The institute supports UN agencies, programs, and Member States by providing evidence-based policy recommendations. Through partnerships with academic institutions, policymakers, and civil society, UNU-IIGH acts as a hub for knowledge exchange, promoting critical thinking on global health challenges such as gender inequality, digital health governance, and climate-related health emergencies.

Position Overview: Policy Research Fellows
UNU-IIGH is looking for four dedicated Policy Research Fellows to contribute to the institute’s work in the following research areas:

Global Health Governance
Gendered Health Systems
Digital Health Security and Governance
Climate Emergencies and Just Transitions
Each fellow will contribute to advancing policy on these topics by addressing power and gender inequalities that lead to inequitable health outcomes. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in critical lenses such as power, feminism, intersectionality, and decoloniality. Candidates should also have experience translating academic research into practical policy recommendations and collaborating across disciplines with global actors.

Key Responsibilities
As a Policy Research Fellow, you will:

Conduct policy-relevant research and contribute to the dissemination of research findings.
Provide administrative and managerial support for the implementation of research and policy engagement activities.
Establish and manage partnerships with external researchers, institutions, and stakeholders.
Produce high-quality outputs, ensuring adherence to deadlines and budget constraints.
Engage in capacity-building efforts and knowledge translation activities to influence global health policy.
Contribute to resource mobilization for your assigned work package.
Participate in international conferences, workshops, and policy outreach events.
Mentor and supervise junior researchers, PhD students, and interns.
Assist with other tasks as assigned by the Director or Research Leads.
Required Qualifications

Master’s degree in a relevant field with at least 7 years of professional experience, or a PhD with 5 years of relevant experience.
A proven track record in international research and policy engagement in areas related to your selected work package.
Demonstrated success in securing competitive funding from national and international agencies.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in a diverse, multicultural environment.
Excellent communication skills in English (both written and oral), with experience across multiple formats including academic publications, policy briefs, and program reports. Knowledge of another UN language is a plus.
Evidence of peer-reviewed publications in relevant fields.
Experience in teaching and research supervision is desirable.
Values and Competencies
UNU values inclusion, integrity, humility, and humanity. Fellows are expected to:

Create an environment of respect, inclusion, and dignity for all.
Act ethically and report any breaches of UN standards.
Demonstrate self-awareness and learn from others.
Advance peace, dignity, and equality in global health on a healthy planet.
Key Competencies

Connect and Collaborate: Build positive relationships to advance the work of the UN.
Analyse and Plan: Use data-driven insights to inform decision-making.
Deliver Results with Positive Impact: Take accountability for delivering meaningful results.
Learn and Develop: Pursue ongoing professional development.
Adapt and Innovate: Show flexibility and creativity in addressing global health challenges.
Contract Details

Position Level: P-2 or P-3, depending on qualifications and experience.
Salary Range:
USD 46,472 – 49,041 for P-2 level
USD 59,151 – 62,024 for P-3 level
Benefits: 30 days of annual leave, health insurance coverage.
Contract Type: Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) for an initial duration of 12 months, with a possibility of renewal based on performance and institutional needs. The maximum duration for PSA contracts at UNU is six years.
Work Location: UNU-IIGH, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Start Date: As soon as possible.
How to Apply
To apply, submit the following:

UNU P11 form (no other forms will be accepted).
Motivation statement within the P11 form.
Responses to questions specific to the position.
You may wish to refer to the UN Values and Behaviours Framework for more information. Visit the UNU Careers page to apply. Please note, previous applicants need not reapply.

Link to apply: https://careers.unu.edu/o/research-fellow-psa-p3-p2