Job description

The research assistant will assist with the implementation of the project portfolio of Professor Dan Banik, whose on-going research focuses on governance, aid, sustainable development, South-South Cooperation and the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs. He currently leads the following projects and initiatives financed by the Research Council of Norway (RCN), the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad) and the University of Oslo:

• CSR in the Sustainable Development Goal Era (China)
• Strengthening Capacity for Democratic and Economic Governance in Malawi
• India’s Footprint in Africa: South-South Cooperation and the Politics of Gifts and Reciprocity (INDAF)
• The Oslo SDG Initiative https://www.sum.uio.no/english/sdg/

The successful candidate will be based at SUM and work closely with Professor Banik. The research assistant is expected to contribute actively in the different stages of the research process and undertake the following broadly formulated tasks:

• Collect published material and create and manage databases
• Assist in financial management and project reporting
• Assist in the day-to-day follow-up of the project network
• Assist in the production of publications (print and online), including academic articles, policy briefs and blogs
• Maintain and update social media accounts and webpages associated with the projects
• Assist in the organization of meetings, seminars and conferences in Norway and abroad
• Assist in production of digital material, including online teaching modules, videos, podcasts, etc.
• Undertake miscellaneous tasks as agreed with the project leader

The above tasks are indicative, and the work description may be adjusted depending on the skills and qualifications of the successful candidate.

Selected candidates may be invited to an interview. We aim at concluding the recruiting process by the end of October 2020.

Start/end date:

This is a full-time, temporary position for a period of six months. The position may be renewed for an additional eighteen (18) months. The starting date is as soon as possible but no later than 1 December 2020.

Qualification requirements

• A Master’s degree in the social sciences.
• Excellent ICT skills (especially Microsoft Word and Excel, and web/social media platforms).
• Good interpersonal and communication skills, with an ability to work independently.
• Excellent command of written and spoken Norwegian and English.
• Work and residence permit in Norway.

Desirable skills for the position include:

• Experience of budget management and research administration
• Experience with audio and video production and editing

Personal skills

We are seeking a person who is flexible, and who enjoys taking on new challenges. As a research assistant, you will be expected to handle a range of different tasks throughout your workday, which must be executed systematically and with attention to quality and detail. The successful candidate must be able to work both independently and as part of a team. Some international travel may be required.

We offer

• Salary scale: NOK 456.400 based on full time position (Job Code 1020 Research Assistant with a Master’s degree).
• Flexible working hours, but with a regular work schedule
• Working space at SUM’s attractive office premises
• Group life insurance and membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund.

The University of Oslo is an equal opportunity employer and values staff diversity.

How to apply

The application must be submitted electronically in JobbNorge.

Applications should be written in English and include:

• Application letter (not more than 3 pages) describing your interest in the field of global development and your specific reasons for applying for this particular position.
• CV listing relevant education including grades, experience, and qualifications.
• An example of written work (such as a Master’s thesis or other publication).
• Names and contact details of at least two referees.

Contact information

Questions regarding the position may be addressed to:

• Professor Dan Banik (dan.banik@sum.uio.no) or
• SUM’s Head of administration Gitte Egenberg (gitte.egenberg@sum.uio.no; tel: 22858987)

Apply for position