Have you ever thought about taking a break from work to focus on a research or study project and hone your expertise in your field? If so, you may want to consider applying for the 2016 sabbatical leave programme.
The provisions governing the programme are set out in the newly issued Administrative Instruction (ST/AI/2015/5). Staff wishing to participate in the programme are encouraged to consult the AI. Detailed application procedures will be specified in an Information Circular (IC) that will be issued and posted here and on iSeek shortly.
What is the sabbatical leave programme?
The sabbatical leave programme is an opportunity to carry out an independent research or study project for up to four months, subject to the release of the staff member by the head of department or office, on special leave with full pay. It is one of the talent management tools that our Organization provides to staff to allow them to grow and maximize their potential to meet current and future professional challenges, while bringing added value to the Organization and enhancing the dialogue between the UN and the academic community.
Who is eligible to apply for the programme?
The programme is open to staff who have at least five years of service with the Secretariat under a fixed term, continuing or permanent contract.
When will the programme open for applications?
Staff have the chance to apply for the programme every year. For 2016, the application period will be from January to the end of March 2016.
What do I need to do to prepare my application?
While awaiting the Information Circular, you may already start preparing your application by:
- Identifying the institution in which you plan to pursue your research or study project, and securing your acceptance there; and
- Preparing your proposal for the research or study project that you intend to undertake.
An application template will be available in the upcoming Information Circular and include the following:
- A proposal outline and description;
- An endorsement form to be completed by the head of department/office/mission or Director/Chief of Mission Support;
- Written correspondence between the staff and the proposed sabbatical institution confirming acceptance.
How are participants selected?
Applications will be evaluated by a selection committee who will make recommendations to the Assistant Secretary-General of the Office for Human Resources Management (OHRM). Selection criteria include:
- Relevance of the project of study or research to the Organization and to the current functions or potential career path of the staff member;
- The potential benefit and impact to the Organization’s work;
- Feasibility of the project of study or research including whether it can be completed within the proposed period;
- Appropriateness of the planned methodology;
- Quality of the proposal including demonstrated awareness of the latest developments in the area of the project of study or research; and
- Suitability of the staff member and the proposed institution to carry out the project of study or research.
Where can I find more information?
Further updates will be posted on iSeek and the sabbatical leave programme page of the HR Portal where you can also read past reports from former participants.
You can contact us at sabbatical@un.org should you have any questions.
