National Consultant for Research and Knowledge Management

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established to promote peace and sustainable development through education, sciences, culture, communication, and information. UNESCO was founded in 1945 and has since grown to include 193 member states and 11 associate members, with a mission to foster international collaboration in these fields. The organization operates in numerous countries around the world, focusing on various initiatives that aim to improve educational outcomes, promote cultural heritage, and enhance scientific cooperation. UNESCO's core values include commitment to the organization, integrity, respect for diversity, and professionalism, which guide its operations and interactions with member states and stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The position of National Consultant for Research and Knowledge Management at UNESCO Dhaka Office is designed to provide high-level technical support in the design and implementation of research and knowledge management initiatives. The consultant will focus on Health Promoting Schools (HPS) and Socio-Emotional Well-being (SEW) interventions within the education sector, while also extending support to other sectors such as sciences, culture, communication, and information. The consultant will work under the overall authority of the Head of Office and will be supervised by the Head of Education and the Programme Officer for Education (Health and Well-being). This role is crucial for ensuring that UNESCO's programs in Bangladesh are informed by robust data and evidence, and that knowledge products are effectively maintained and disseminated to stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including supporting the design and implementation of research initiatives such as situation analyses, needs assessments, mapping, action research, and evaluations. They will ensure that these initiatives are aligned with Bangladesh’s national priorities and UNESCO’s mandate. The consultant will also assist in developing program documents like project proposals, work plans, and results frameworks based on data and evidence. Additionally, they will support implementing partners in analyzing quantitative and qualitative data using appropriate tools and methodologies, and conduct field missions to monitor and quality assure research projects as needed. In terms of knowledge management, the consultant will review existing practices at the UNESCO Dhaka Office, identify gaps, and recommend improvements. They will develop knowledge products such as analytical reports, policy briefs, and publications by synthesizing research findings into actionable insights. Furthermore, the consultant will strengthen partnerships with academic institutions, research bodies, and civil society to expand the evidence base for UNESCO’s programs, contribute to resource mobilization by preparing evidence-based project proposals, and coordinate with various ministries and UN agencies to align research outputs with national priorities. Additional programmatic, operational, and administrative responsibilities may also be assigned by the Supervisor and the Head of Office.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Education, Social Sciences, Public Health, Development Studies, or Data Analytics. They should have a minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible work experience in research, evaluation, or knowledge management, preferably with international organizations including UN agencies. Proven experience in designing and conducting research in education, health, and well-being, as well as producing high-quality knowledge products like analytical reports and policy briefs, is essential. Familiarity with programming languages and tools such as R, Python, and Arc GIS is considered an asset, as is experience working with government institutions and coordinating multi-stakeholder research processes.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in fields related to education, social sciences, public health, development studies, data analytics, or other relevant disciplines. This advanced degree is crucial for understanding the complexities of research and knowledge management in the context of UNESCO's mission and the specific needs of the education sector in Bangladesh.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible work experience in research, evaluation, or knowledge management. Candidates should have a strong background in designing and conducting research, particularly in the fields of education, health, and well-being. Experience in producing high-quality knowledge products, such as analytical reports and policy briefs, is also necessary. Additionally, familiarity with programming languages and tools relevant to data analysis and visualization is advantageous, as is experience in working with government institutions and coordinating multi-stakeholder research processes.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English and Bangla is mandatory for this position. Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills in both languages are essential for effectively synthesizing complex data into actionable findings for diverse audiences, including government entities. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages will facilitate collaboration and engagement with various stakeholders in the education sector.

Additional Notes:
This is a national position based in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and females are encouraged to apply. The contract duration is for 3 months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and project needs. The position is full-time, and the salary is negotiable, ranging from BDT 120,000 to 150,000 per month, commensurate with qualifications and experience. The consultant may be required to undertake field missions, and related expenses will be covered by UNESCO in accordance with relevant regulations. Candidates must complete an online application and provide accurate information, as modifications cannot be made after submission. The selection process may include tests and assessments, as well as a competency-based interview.