UNESCO Programme Specialist (Sciences)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) 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. UNESCO operates in over 190 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. The organization focuses on building peace in the minds of men and women, fostering sustainable development through education, and promoting freedom of expression and access to information.

Job Overview:
The UNESCO Programme Specialist (Sciences) position is pivotal in implementing international and regional agendas related to various scientific disciplines. The incumbent will focus on key areas such as Ethics Research and Technology, Social Policies and Inclusion, anti-doping in sports, Water Sciences, Ecological and Earth Sciences, Local and Indigenous Knowledge Systems, Climate Action, and Disaster Risk Reduction and Preparedness. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including National Commissions and Member States, to promote Science for Sustainable Development, particularly in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the Pacific region. The incumbent will also be responsible for developing and implementing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education initiatives and capacity-building activities in the Basic and Engineering Sciences. This position is integral to advancing UNESCO's Medium-Term Strategy and the global 2030 agenda for sustainable development, ensuring that the organization's priorities are effectively integrated into regional frameworks and initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will have a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Strengthening collaborative relationships with National Commissions and Member States to promote Science for Sustainable Development.
• Conceptualizing, designing, planning, developing, coordinating, implementing, and monitoring work plans for major areas of the Sciences Sector Strategies.
• Developing and implementing programme activities that promote research and assist Pacific Member States in identifying their needs.
• Providing expert assistance and technical support to Pacific Member States in the implementation of UNESCO’s Sciences and Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) initiatives.
• Ensuring that UNESCO’s programmes are adequately represented in the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for Pacific SIDS.
• Mobilizing and coordinating national, regional, and international partners to support Member States in the region.
• Establishing and enhancing strategic working relationships with national/local authorities, cultural institutions, and relevant organizations.
• Building partnerships with UN Agencies, development partners, and the private sector to design and implement Sciences programmes and projects, including in emergency response and preparedness.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in a scientific discipline relevant to the position. Additionally, a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible professional experience in scientific, science policy, or science programme-related activities is required. This experience should include at least three years at the international level, demonstrating a proven ability to plan, develop, implement, manage, coordinate, and evaluate science programmes. Candidates should also have experience in resource mobilization and partnership development, as well as in leading and managing teams in a multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in a scientific discipline relevant to the position. A Ph.D. in a related field is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's application.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible professional experience in scientific, science policy, or science programme-related activities. Candidates should have at least three years of experience at the international level, showcasing their ability to manage and coordinate science programmes effectively.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other UNESCO official languages such as Arabic, French, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this position is fixed-term for a duration of two years, with the possibility of renewal. The position is open to both internal and external candidates. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages applications from individuals from under-represented Member States, minority groups, indigenous groups, and persons with disabilities. The organization adheres to a zero-tolerance policy against harassment and is committed to achieving gender parity and equitable geographical distribution among its staff. The approximate annual starting salary for this post is 118,115 USD, and benefits may include 30 days of annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, and a pension plan. Candidates must complete an online application by the specified deadline, and the selection process may include interviews and reference checks.