Location: New Delhi, IndiaAgency: UNDPBureau: Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific (RBAP)Practice Area: EconomicsContract Type: Fixed Term AppointmentContract Duration: One year, with possibility of extensionApplication Deadline: 31 December 2025Job Identification: 30125Schedule: Full-timeLanguages Required: Fluency in oral and written English Background The Asia-Pacific region is currently off track to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with only one-third of global targets expected to be met by 2030. At the same time, rising human insecurity, economic uncertainty, climate-related risks, and governance challenges are reshaping the development landscape. These dynamics require stronger policy foresight, integrated economic analysis, and systems-level solutions. UNDP, as the UN’s global development network, works in over 170 countries and territories to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, strengthen resilience, and accelerate sustainable development. In India, UNDP has partnered with the Government and people since 1951, supporting national and subnational development priorities across governance, economic transformation, climate resilience, and social inclusion. UNDP India’s Country Programme (2023–2027) is structured around three strategic portfolios: strengthening accountable and evidence-led institutions, expanding inclusive economic opportunities and social protection, and promoting climate-smart and resilient development. Gender equality, social inclusion, South-South cooperation, innovation, and data-driven solutions are embedded across all programme pillars. Within this context, the Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific has established an Economist Network to enhance economic analysis, policy advisory services, and regional collaboration. The Economist position in India plays a critical role in advancing this agenda at national, regional, and global levels. Position Purpose The Economist is based in UNDP’s Country Office in India and works under the direct supervision of the Resident Representative and Deputy Resident Representative, with a dotted reporting line to the RBAP Chief Economist. The incumbent also serves as an active member of the RBAP Economist Network, contributing approximately 20 percent of time to regional and cross-country initiatives. The role integrates economic analysis across UNDP programmes to maximise development impact. The Economist provides strategic foresight, strengthens portfolio design, and connects economic diagnostics to policy implementation and delivery. Working across multidisciplinary teams, the incumbent supports UNDP’s portfolio approach and collaborates closely with colleagues from the Global Policy Network, regional hubs, and development partners. Key Duties and Responsibilities Strategic Economic Analysis and Portfolio DesignThe Economist provides high-quality economic, social, and political analysis to support the design, implementation, and monitoring of UNDP’s country programme and strategic initiatives. This includes contributing to the preparation of the Country Programme Document, advising programme teams on inclusive growth and SDG-aligned portfolios, and applying systems thinking to address complex development challenges. The role leads analytical work such as Development Finance Assessments and supports innovative financing approaches to better align public and private resources with national SDG priorities. Policy Advice and Government EngagementThe position delivers technical expertise and policy advice to national and subnational government counterparts on sustainable and inclusive economic development. This includes supporting development planning, SDG integration, monitoring and reporting, and strengthening data and statistical systems. The Economist facilitates dialogue among government, development partners, civil society, and the private sector, drawing on global best practices and UNDP’s regional and global expertise. Knowledge Products and Research LeadershipThe Economist leads and contributes to the preparation of policy briefs, analytical reports, background notes, and presentations for senior management and policymakers. The role coordinates the development of National and Subnational Human Development Reports, ensuring robust economic analysis, data quality, and policy relevance. The incumbent also supports innovation-driven research and collaborates with UNDP’s Accelerator Labs. Advocacy, Partnerships, and Resource MobilisationIn collaboration with senior management, the Economist supports the development and strengthening of partnerships with UN agencies, international financial institutions, bilateral donors, private sector actors, and civil society organisations. When delegated, the role represents UNDP in national and international forums and contributes to resource mobilisation strategies and the design of large-scale development solutions. Regional and Network ContributionsThe Economist actively contributes to UNDP’s work across the Asia-Pacific region through participation in the RBAP Economist Network. This includes supporting regional knowledge products, peer reviews, thematic research, and Regional Human Development Reports. The incumbent shares country-level experience, contributes to cross-border initiatives, and supports common analytical frameworks across the network. Required Education and Experience EducationAn advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Economics or a related field is required. A Bachelor’s degree combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of a Master’s degree. A PhD in Economics is considered an advantage. Professional ExperienceCandidates must have a minimum of seven years of relevant experience with a Master’s degree, or nine years with a Bachelor’s degree, in economic research, policy analysis, and development implementation support. Extensive experience in policy advisory work, research, advocacy, and preparation of high-quality policy briefs is required. Experience with SDGs, data analysis tools, development finance, and multi-stakeholder engagement is highly desirable. Prior experience in the Asia-Pacific region and with UN or international organisations is an asset. LanguagesFluency in English is required. Knowledge of another UN language is an advantage. Contract and Conditions This is a full-time, fixed-term P4 position with an initial duration of one year, renewable subject to performance and funding availability. The appointment is subject to administrative clearance and approval from the Government of India. A probationary period applies in accordance with UNDP policies. Equal Opportunity and Ethics UNDP is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. All recruitment decisions are based on merit and suitability. UNDP maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward harassment, sexual exploitation, abuse of authority, and discrimination. Background and reference checks are conducted for all selected candidates. Application Process Applications must be submitted online no later than 31 December 2025. UNDP does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. 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