Research and Policy Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNESCO, which stands for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Established in 1945, UNESCO aims to promote peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. The organization has a mission to build peace in the minds of men and women, and it operates in over 190 countries with a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. UNESCO is dedicated to fostering global collaboration in various fields, including education, science, culture, and communication, to ensure sustainable development and the protection of cultural heritage.

Job Overview:
The Research and Policy Consultant position is situated within the Research, Governance and Diplomacy (RGD) Section of UNESCO's Sciences Sector. This role is crucial for supporting global initiatives aimed at enhancing science, technology, and innovation (STI) systems. The consultant will play a significant role in the preparation of the 8th edition of the UNESCO Science Report, which serves as a comprehensive global assessment of trends in STI. The consultant will also contribute to initiatives focused on scientific literacy and science popularization, which are essential for improving public understanding of science and fostering evidence-informed decision-making. The consultant will be expected to engage in various tasks, including research coordination, analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">technical analysis, editorial processes, stakeholder engagement, policy development, and program implementation related to the UNESCO Science Report and associated initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: contributing to the technical, analytical, and editorial development of the UNESCO Science Report by reviewing draft chapters and supporting materials; conducting research and policy analysis on STI issues; coordinating with Editorial Board members, authors, and partner institutions; providing quality assurance inputs to enhance the report's coherence and relevance; supporting the development and implementation of initiatives on scientific literacy and science popularization; engaging in consultations with experts and stakeholders; preparing policy briefs and consultation reports; and submitting progress reports that detail the technical and editorial support provided throughout the consultancy.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as natural sciences, engineering, data science, or science and technology policy. A PhD degree is desirable. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in research, policy analysis, or program coordination. Experience in supporting research publications and coordinating with international experts is essential. Strong analytical, research, and drafting skills are required, along with excellent organizational and communication abilities.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as natural sciences, engineering, data science, or science and technology policy. A PhD degree is considered an asset, particularly in quantitatively oriented fields or social sciences such as economics.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant professional experience, which includes research, policy analysis, program coordination, and editorial coordination. Experience in science policy, scientific literacy, and international development is highly desirable. Familiarity with coordinating efforts among international experts and institutions is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other official UNESCO languages, such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered a desirable qualification.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time consultancy position based in Paris, with a contract duration of 8 months. The consultant will work on-site at UNESCO's premises. The application process requires candidates to submit a letter of interest, a CV, and a brief technical and financial proposal. The selection process may include interviews and assessments, and all candidates will be informed of the outcome of their application. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages applications from individuals from minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities. The organization maintains a zero-tolerance policy against harassment and ensures confidentiality in the hiring process.