Research Assistant

About the role

The Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is seeking an entry‑level Research Assistant to support its Public Governance and Institutional Transformation Section. The role involves gathering, organizing, and preliminarily analysing quantitative and qualitative data for projects on public administration, governance, accountability and innovation.

Key responsibilities

• Research, extract, consolidate and organise data from national, regional and international sources using appropriate tools.
• Assist in collecting, reviewing and validating data for accuracy, completeness and consistency.
• Maintain and update databases, background notes, tables and presentation materials.
• Prepare concise briefing documents, country profiles and other project outputs.
• Support the project team by flagging discrepancies and following up on data gaps.

Required profile

• University degree in social sciences, economics, public administration, international relations or a related field.
• Strong analytical, writing and attention‑to‑detail skills.
• Ability to work under supervision and meet tight deadlines.
• Good command of English; knowledge of Arabic is an asset.
• Interest in public governance, institutional reform and regional development.

Required skills

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Experience using research and data‑analysis tools (e.g., statistical software, data‑visualisation applications).
• Effective internet research and information‑management abilities.

What we offer

• Opportunity to work within a United Nations agency on high‑impact governance projects.
• Professional development and exposure to regional policy‑making processes.
• Collaborative, multicultural work environment in Beirut.