Project Appointment in Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, was established in 1945 with the mission to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. With a workforce of over 2,000 employees, UNESCO operates in more than 190 countries, focusing on building peace in the minds of men and women. The organization emphasizes the importance of education, science, culture, and communication in fostering sustainable development and global cooperation.

Job Overview:
The position is situated within the Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy (STIP) Section of UNESCO's Natural Sciences Sector, which aims to enhance governance in science, technology, and innovation worldwide. The incumbent will lead the development of a new Thematic Portal on STI Policies for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA), which is part of UNESCO's contribution to the 2025 G20 South African Presidency. This role involves managing the design and implementation of the portal, ensuring it provides policymakers with the necessary tools to foster inclusive STI ecosystems. The incumbent will also support the STIP Section's strategic objectives, monitor global STI policy trends, and engage with various stakeholders to promote effective STI governance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for several key duties, including managing the design and implementation of the Thematic Portal on STI Policies for DEIA, defining its technical architecture and data models. They will contribute to global STI policy monitoring tools and methodologies, oversee the monitoring and evaluation of the portal's impact, and identify strategic partnerships and funding opportunities. Additionally, the incumbent will manage partnerships with Member States and other stakeholders, represent UNESCO in relevant forums, integrate AI tools into STIP activities, and design capacity-building programs for policymakers on STI governance. They will also provide technical expertise on various STI policy-related topics, including science diplomacy and the governance of emerging technologies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's or equivalent) in fields such as Basic Sciences, Natural Sciences, Science, Technology and Innovation, or science policy. They should have a minimum of four years of progressively responsible experience in STI policy, with at least two years at the international level. Proven experience in managing complex international projects related to STI policy, capacity-building programs, and partnership building with donors and organizations is essential. Strong analytical, drafting, and interpersonal skills are also required, along with the ability to work autonomously and in multicultural environments.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Science and Technology Policy, Innovation Management, or similar disciplines. A primary university degree in natural sciences or engineering is considered a significant asset, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of four years of relevant professional experience, with a focus on science, technology, and innovation policy. This experience should include at least two years at the international level, demonstrating a strong background in the design, management, and implementation of international projects related to STI policy and governance. Experience in capacity-building for government officials and working within high-level intergovernmental processes is also crucial.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English (both written and spoken) is mandatory, along with a working knowledge of French. Knowledge of another official UNESCO language, such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered desirable and can enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The position is a project appointment with a duration of one year, subject to extension based on funding availability and satisfactory performance. The role is open to both internal and external candidates. The approximate annual starting salary for this position is 110,583 USD, and benefits may include 30 days of annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, and a pension plan. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages applications from candidates of various backgrounds, including those from under-represented Member States, minority groups, indigenous groups, and persons with disabilities. The organization maintains a zero-tolerance policy against harassment and is committed to achieving gender parity and equitable geographical distribution among its staff.