UNDP Islamic Finance Research Fellowship: An Exciting Opportunity for Aspiring Professionals (monthly stipend available)
Application Deadline : 16-Dec-24 (Midnight New York, USA)
Location : Istanbul, TURKEY
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) offers a unique opportunity for aspiring professionals to engage in impactful research and development through the Islamic Finance Research Fellowship at the Istanbul International Center for Private Sector in Development (ICPSD). With a global mandate to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), UNDP is focused on leveraging the private sector’s role in fostering inclusive growth and sustainable development.
About the Fellowship
The ICPSD was established to advocate for the private sector’s contribution to human development, particularly through Islamic finance and impact investing. The center is responsible for promoting market-based solutions to address sustainable development challenges, focusing on aligning Islamic finance and impact investing with the SDGs. This fellowship, therefore, offers participants the opportunity to support the development and implementation of innovative financing mechanisms aimed at promoting sustainability on a global scale.
As a Research Fellow, the selected candidate will contribute to the ongoing work in Islamic finance and impact investing. They will assist in researching the political, social, and economic trends surrounding these fields, while also participating in the management of knowledge-sharing activities.
Key Responsibilities
The Research Fellow will support a variety of research and administrative tasks, including:
- Research and Knowledge Generation (60% of the time): Conduct qualitative and quantitative background analysis for projects related to the role of Islamic financial institutions in impact investing. Assist in the development of knowledge management activities for impact investing.
- Event Organization and Administrative Support (30% of the time): Provide logistical support for organizing workshops, conferences, and other events. This includes securing venues, managing invitations, organizing registration, and ensuring the smooth execution of each event.
- Support for Management Coordination (10% of the time): Assist senior management in preparing notes, summaries, and presentations for advisory activities. Participate in meetings, and support the development of key reports, briefs, and methodologies.
Desired Skills and Qualifications
The fellowship is open to individuals who meet the following criteria:
- Education: A Bachelor’s degree in economics, business administration, Islamic finance, international development, political science, or a related field. A Master’s degree is a plus.
- Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools and web-based management systems is essential. The ability to communicate fluently in English is required, and knowledge of Arabic, French, or Persian/Dari will be an advantage.
- Personal Traits: The ideal candidate will have strong analytical and organizational skills, a proactive and goal-oriented mindset, and the ability to communicate effectively in both team settings and independently. Cultural sensitivity and an openness to feedback are also important qualities.
Why Apply?
This is a valuable opportunity for individuals looking to gain hands-on experience in the field of Islamic finance and impact investing. The fellowship offers an excellent platform for contributing to global development goals while gaining insights into how the private sector can drive sustainable change.
Additionally, the UNDP Fellowship provides a monthly stipend to support the fellows throughout the duration of their work, making it an accessible and rewarding experience for those passionate about making a difference.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their application, which should include:
- A brief cover letter outlining interest in and qualifications for the position.
- A current CV in English.
- All documents should be grouped into a single PDF file as the application system allows for only one document upload.
Selected candidates will also need to submit official documentation confirming they meet the educational requirements before the interview.
For more information and to apply, visit the UNDP Careers page or reach out to [email protected] for further inquiries.
In Conclusion
The Islamic Finance Research Fellowship at UNDP’s ICPSD presents an exciting chance for recent graduates or young professionals with an interest in international development, Islamic finance, and sustainable development. By participating in this program, fellows will not only contribute to important global initiatives but will also develop the skills and experience necessary to advance in the fields of impact investing and private sector development.
This fellowship is a fantastic stepping stone for anyone looking to build a career in development, Islamic finance, or sustainable impact investing, while supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
