Introduction
For senior academics and research professionals seeking global policy influence, UN system exposure, and long-term research collaboration, this opportunity with the United Nations University represents a unique and prestigious pathway. The United Nations University (UNU), the academic and research arm of the United Nations, is currently building a roster of Adjunct Professors and Adjunct Researchers for 2026 under its specialized institute UNU-FLORES, based in Dresden, Germany.
Unlike conventional academic appointments, this opportunity offers flexible, short-term engagement with one of the world’s most respected UN research institutions—without requiring permanent relocation or full-time employment. Successful candidates join an academic affiliation roster, allowing them to contribute to policy-oriented research, capacity development, and global knowledge production aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This role is particularly relevant now, as governments and international institutions urgently seek integrated solutions to complex environmental challenges involving water, soil, waste, energy, and other geo-resources. UNU-FLORES sits at the center of this agenda through its work on the Resource Nexus, helping bridge research, policy, and implementation—especially in developing and emerging economies.
Written from the perspective of an independent global opportunities curator, this article provides a clear, structured, and value-added overview of the UNU-FLORES Adjunct Professor / Researcher opportunity, including responsibilities, qualifications, collaboration models, application strategy, and frequently asked questions.
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United Nations University Is Recruiting Adjunct Professors & Researchers for 2026: Join a Global UN Research Roster Advancing the Resource Nexus
Background & Job Description
About the United Nations University
The United Nations University is an international community of scholars dedicated to policy-oriented research, postgraduate education, and capacity development in support of the United Nations system. For over four decades, UNU has served as a global think tank addressing issues such as human security, conflict prevention, sustainable development, and social welfare.
UNU operates across more than a dozen countries, with hundreds of researchers contributing to all 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Its work is recognized for academic rigor, policy relevance, and practical impact, supported by collaborations with over 200 UN agencies, universities, and research institutions worldwide.
About UNU-FLORES
The UNU-FLORES (United Nations University Institute for Integrated Management of Material Fluxes and of Resources) focuses on resolving pressing challenges in the sustainable and integrated management of environmental resources.
Based in Dresden, UNU-FLORES advances the Resource Nexus approach, emphasizing the interconnections between:
- Water
- Soil and land
- Waste
- Energy
- Other geo-resources
The institute combines research, postgraduate teaching, advanced training, capacity development, and policy outreach to support UN Member States—particularly in developing and emerging economies.
Purpose of the Adjunct Professor / Researcher Roster
UNU-FLORES is inviting applications to establish a two-year roster of highly qualified academics and experts who can be rapidly mobilized for short-term research, advisory, teaching, and outreach assignments as opportunities arise.
- Candidates holding a Professor title may be appointed as Adjunct Professors
- Candidates without this title may be appointed as Adjunct Researchers
The primary engagement is through an Academic Affiliation Agreement (AAA), which is unpaid but provides formal UN affiliation, access to UNU resources, and opportunities for joint research, publications, and visibility. In addition, selected affiliates may later be contracted under paid consultancy agreements for specific deliverables.
Key Responsibilities
Under the supervision of the Director of UNU-FLORES and in close collaboration with its academic team, selected adjuncts may contribute to the following areas:
- Research & Innovation
- Conducting and supporting interdisciplinary research on the Resource Nexus
- Collaborating with junior and senior researchers on funded projects
- Advancing innovation in integrated environmental resource management
- Publications & Knowledge Production
- Publishing peer-reviewed journal articles, books, and policy briefs
- Contributing to evidence-based policy recommendations
- Supporting dissemination of research findings to global audiences
- Policy Analysis & Capacity Development
- Advising on governance, institutional frameworks, and capacity needs
- Supporting training, postgraduate teaching, and professional development
- Engaging with policy stakeholders at national and international levels
- Institutional Development
- Supporting fundraising and budget-related activities
- Expanding academic and institutional partnerships
- Increasing UNU-FLORES’ global visibility and impact
- Outreach & Academic Engagement
- Participating in lecture series, workshops, and institutional meetings
- Contributing to outreach, advocacy, and impact initiatives
These responsibilities are aligned with UNU-FLORES’ mission to advance integrated solutions across environmental resource systems.
Qualifications
Education & Academic Credentials
To be considered for the roster, candidates must demonstrate:
- A PhD in a field related to:
- Integrated environmental resource management
- Water, energy, soil, waste, or land systems
- Sustainability science, environmental policy, or related disciplines
Professional Experience
Competitive applicants typically possess:
- A minimum of five (5) years of post-PhD research experience
- A strong publication record in areas relevant to integrated resources management
- Experience working in interdisciplinary and international research settings
- Proven ability to contribute independently to high-level academic outputs
Skills & Competencies
Candidates should also demonstrate:
- Proficiency in English (written and spoken); German is an asset
- Strong planning, organizational, and time-management skills
- Ability to work autonomously while collaborating in diverse teams
- Professional integrity, adaptability, and innovation
- Sensitivity and effectiveness in multicultural environments
Why Apply for This UNU Opportunity
Formal UN Affiliation Without Relocation
The Academic Affiliation Agreement offers official linkage to the UN system while allowing professionals to remain based at their home institutions.
Global Research Visibility
Affiliates gain opportunities for joint publications, policy engagement, and international recognition under the UNU banner.
Pathway to Paid Consultancy Work
While the AAA itself is unpaid, affiliates may later receive remunerated consultancy contracts tied to specific deliverables.
Impact on Global Sustainability Policy
Work conducted through UNU-FLORES directly informs UN Member States and contributes to global sustainability solutions.
Elite Academic Network
Affiliates join a network of senior scholars and UN-linked experts working at the forefront of environmental governance.
Contract Modalities & Compensation
Academic Affiliation Agreement (AAA)
- Duration: Up to 12 months, renewable
- Compensation: Unpaid
- Benefits:
- Access to UNU academic resources
- UN system linkage
- Joint research and publication opportunities
Consultant Contract (CTC)
- Duration: Up to 12 months per contract
- Compensation: Paid per deliverable, commensurate with expertise
- Limit: Maximum 24 months within a 36-month period
- Notes:
- No staff benefits (leave, health insurance)
- Taxes are the responsibility of the consultant
Travel & Logistics
If mission travel is required:
- Travel costs are covered by UNU (economy class)
- Daily subsistence allowances follow UN rates
- Consultants must independently complete:
- Medical and security clearance
- Mandatory UN safety training
- Visa requirements
How to Apply
Applications are submitted directly through the UNU system.
Applicants are required to:
- Complete the UNU P11 Form (UNU-specific format)
- Provide a motivation statement within the P11
- Answer role-specific screening questions
No application fee is charged at any stage.
Selection Process
Stage 1: Roster Establishment
Applicants are assessed based on:
- Academic qualifications
- Relevant research and professional experience
- Demonstrated competencies
Successful candidates are placed on the UNU-FLORES Roster for two years.
Stage 2: Contracting
When collaboration opportunities arise, shortlisted roster members are contacted to confirm availability and terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a paid position?
The Academic Affiliation Agreement is unpaid, but paid consultancy contracts may follow.
Do I need to relocate to Germany?
No. Engagements are flexible and often remote, with occasional travel if required.
Can I apply while employed elsewhere?
Yes. This opportunity is designed for academics with existing institutional affiliations.
Is this suitable for early-career researchers?
No. This roster targets senior researchers with post-PhD experience.
Does UNU charge application fees?
No. Any request for payment should be treated as a scam.
Additional Information
- Organization: United Nations University (UNU)
- Institute: UNU-FLORES
- Location: Dresden, Germany (flexible engagement)
- Application Deadline: Open / Rolling
- Commitment: Diversity, inclusion, and zero tolerance for misconduct
Suggested Focus Keywords
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