Overview
Reopened: Postdoctoral Fellow – Agent-Based Modeling & Reinforcement Learning (PSA Contract - BASED IN MACAU)
Join to apply for this role at United Nations University Institute in Macau.
About UNU Macau
UNU Institute in Macau (UNU Macau) is dedicated to research, training, and education on digital technologies for sustainable development. It promotes evidence-based actions and policies to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Responsibilities
* Research
* Contribute to defining computational architectures to simulate and contextualize human behavior, using agent-based modeling (ABM) and reinforcement learning (RL) techniques, based on conceptual frameworks in social psychology, social science and the inputs of local communities.
* Develop and adapt reinforcement learning algorithms for high-dimensional, partially observable multi-agent environments. Apply deep learning techniques, including convolutional neural networks (CNNs).
* Build (code) a novel interactive agent-based model platform (or customize an existing one) to better support the simulation of social / environmental policy making.
* Deliver and present high-impact papers in top-tier AI conferences and workshops, building bridges with, from and for the Global South.
* Implement use cases that inform policy making for social / environmental challenges in contextualized scenarios.
* Evaluate regional and global LLMs to interact with agents (citizens) in the simulation. Integrate an interface between the agent-based model and existing mainstream and regional LLMs.
* Adhere to best practices in software engineering, including thorough documentation, unit testing, code reviews, and coding standards to ensure re-usability and maintainability.
* Capacity building: develop and deliver capacity-building workshops, courses, and lectures, and curricula within the researcher’s area of expertise to diverse audiences (academia, non-profits, government officials, industry).
* Facilitate workshops and seminars with learners from diverse backgrounds; mentor research interns when applicable.
* Define and implement research projects in collaboration with external partners; deliver expected outputs on time and ensure ERB (Ethical Review Board) requirements are met before data collection.
* Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor and Institute management.
Key Performance Indicators
* Develop and implement an ABM technical platform that supports social policy-making simulations.
* Publish high-quality research in top-tier conferences or journals.
* Contribute to design, submission and implementation of research projects and securing research funds.
* Contribute to capacity-building activities and organize research events with the Global South.
* Represent UNU Macau in public research events and outreach activities.
Competencies
* Values: Inclusion, Integrity, Humility, Humanity
* Behaviours: Connect and collaborate; Analyse and plan; Deliver results with positive impact; Learn and develop; Adapt and innovate
Qualifications
Education and certifications: PhD completed or submitted for examination in computer science, artificial intelligence, software or development engineering, or a relevant field.
Experience and other requirements:
* Strong programming skills (Python and/or Julia) for leading ABM platform development; evidence via open-source contributions (e.g., GitHub).
* Excellent academic publications in ABM and AI addressing human and environmental development challenges.
* Team player with strong interpersonal skills; ability to work with diverse stakeholders in a respectful manner.
* Passion for the UN mission and SDGs; proactive and self-driven with willingness to learn.
* Selected candidate must reside full-time in Macau. This is not a remote position.
Desirable:
* Experience with diverse stakeholders (public, private, non-profit, intergovernmental); multi-disciplinary teams.
* Experience in the United Nations system is an asset.
Language: Strong English communication, presentation, and writing skills; knowledge of another UN official language is an asset.
Remuneration and Duration
The successful candidate will be employed under PSA contract with UNU Macau. Net salary: USD 36,000–39,500 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Benefits include 30 days annual leave and health insurance. Travel costs for international appointee to Macau at initial appointment and upon return after service period are covered if the role requires physical duty in Macau. Tax-exempted housing subsidy up to MOP 10,000 may be available for relocation; taxes are the responsibility of the PSA holder. Duration: 1-year initial contract with possible renewal; total PSA duration may not exceed 6 years. Starting date: as soon as possible.
How To Apply
To apply, you do not need an account. Please:
* Apply via the apply link
* Fill out the UNU P11 Form
* Provide a motivation statement in the P11 form
* Answer questions tailored to the position
Application deadline: Extended until September 14, 2025, by 11:59pm Macau time. Note: application page may close after the deadline.
Assessment and notices
Evaluation may include an assessment exercise, followed by a competency-based interview, background checks, and references. UNU reserves the right to select one or more candidates and to consider applications for other similar positions. Scam warnings and UN values and behaviours apply.
This description contains standard UNU notices on rosters, scams, and staff conduct.
#J-18808-Ljbffr