Are you passionate about advancing evidence-based development strategies and leveraging cutting-edge data analytics to inform global development? The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Development Research and Evaluation Analyst (DREA) to join its Independent Evaluation Office (IEO), based remotely in New York, United States. This full-time, one-year position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to high-impact evaluations that shape development policies and programs worldwide.
About UNDP and the Independent Evaluation Office
UNDP plays a vital role in supporting countries to achieve sustainable development, eradicate poverty, and promote inclusive growth. Its Independent Evaluation Office (IEO) underpins this mission by providing credible, independent, and strategic evaluation evidence to UNDP’s Executive Board and management. The IEO’s work ensures accountability, promotes learning, and fosters continuous improvement across UNDP’s global operations.
The IEO conducts a wide range of evaluations—including country program evaluations, thematic studies, and corporate assessments—that inform policy decisions, improve program design, and enhance development effectiveness. It also champions innovative evaluation methodologies, including the integration of AI and data analytics, to keep pace with evolving development challenges.
The Role: Supporting Evidence-Based Evaluation through Innovation and Data Fluency
The Development Research and Evaluation Analyst will serve as a key technical resource within the IEO’s Country Programme Evaluation section. This role is designed for a researcher with a strong analytical mindset, a passion for data-driven insights, and familiarity with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning.
The primary goal of this position is to strengthen the quality, rigor, and innovation of UNDP evaluations by providing expert analytical support. The DREA will contribute to the design, execution, and reporting of evaluations, ensuring that findings are supported by robust data analysis and innovative methodologies.
Key Responsibilities
- Research and Data Analysis: Conduct high-quality research using both primary and secondary data sources to support evaluation activities. Employ quantitative and qualitative methodologies, integrating AI tools like Python, R, Power BI, and specialized platforms such as AIDA for data analysis.
- Data Management & Visualization: Structure datasets, develop dashboards, and generate visual insights to enhance understanding of evaluation findings. Design and analyze surveys, manage datasets, and create infographics to communicate complex results clearly.
- Evaluation Support: Assist evaluation teams with data collection, analysis, and drafting evidence-based conclusions and recommendations. Prepare technical documents, including terms of reference, outcome papers, and presentation materials.
- Technology Integration: Leverage machine learning, natural language processing, and other AI techniques to support predictive analytics, trend detection, and decision-making processes within evaluations.
- Project Coordination: Manage research timelines, resources, and collaboration tools to ensure efficient evaluation processes. Liaise with internal teams, external consultants, and stakeholders to facilitate smooth evaluation operations.
- Capacity Building & Knowledge Sharing: Mentor junior analysts, contribute to methodological innovations, and promote best practices in evaluation. Support the organization’s participation in UN and professional evaluation networks, sharing knowledge and fostering collaboration.
Candidate Profile
UNDP seeks a dynamic professional with a strong foundation in research, data analytics, and innovative evaluation methodologies. The ideal candidate will have:
- An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Social Sciences, Economics, Public Administration, Political Science, International Relations, or related fields. A bachelor’s degree combined with relevant experience may also be considered.
- A minimum of two years’ experience with a Master’s degree or four years’ experience with a bachelor’s degree, specifically in conducting research, country program evaluations, and applying machine learning and AI in development analytics.
- Proven expertise in qualitative and quantitative research methods, data management, and visualization tools.
- Experience with programming languages such as Python and R, and familiarity with data analysis platforms including PowerQuery, Power BI, and AIDA.
- Knowledge of natural language processing, predictive analytics, and AI applications in development contexts.
- Fluency in English, with proficiency in French and Spanish—a must for engaging with diverse stakeholders and regional contexts.
Why Join UNDP?
This role offers an exceptional chance to shape the future of development evaluation by integrating innovative technologies and data-driven insights. You will work within a dynamic team committed to transparency, learning, and continuous improvement, making a tangible difference in how global development strategies are crafted and implemented.
Application Details
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply before July 9, 2025, via the UNDP careers portal. The position is open to international applicants and is based entirely remotely in New York, providing flexibility for talented professionals worldwide.
UNDP values diversity and inclusion, welcoming applications from candidates of all backgrounds, especially those committed to advancing sustainable development through innovative evaluation practices.
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