Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organization that operates within the United Nations System. Established to engage in policy-relevant research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination, UNU aims to further the purposes and principles of the United Nations. Over the past fifty years, UNU has been a vital source of impartial research focused on sustainability, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">human security, and economic development. With hundreds of researchers working across 12 countries, UNU's expertise encompasses the full spectrum of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, generating knowledge that is relevant to policy-making and aimed at fostering positive global change. The organization collaborates closely with other UN entities and leading research institutions worldwide, reinforcing its commitment to addressing pressing global challenges.

Job Overview:
The Consultant position at UNU-IAS involves supporting the coordination of the Higher Education Sustainability Initiative (HESI) in collaboration with UNDESA and other key partners. The role requires the consultant to assist in the development of annual work plans, draft concept notes, and maintain communication with HESI partners while participating in regular meetings. The consultant will also facilitate knowledge sharing between HESI and other UNU-IAS networks, contribute to the 'Climate Change Education for All' project, and provide technical assistance in enhancing training modules. The position demands a proactive approach to research and evaluation, with a focus on developing educational resources and tools that promote climate literacy among educators. The consultant will work under the supervision of the Director of UNU IAS and the Head of Research, ensuring timely and quality delivery of activities and reports.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the coordination of the Higher Education Sustainability Initiative (HESI) with UNDESA and other key partners, including creating annual work plans, drafting concept notes, and participating in meetings.
• Facilitate inter-network taskforce and knowledge sharing between HESI and other UNU-IAS networks, ensuring synergy and visibility of initiatives.
• Support the 'Climate Change Education for All' project by designing and implementing pilot teacher training modules and developing evaluation methodologies.
• Provide technical assistance in enhancing and translating pilot training into diploma modules, reviewing content and materials, and coordinating with stakeholders.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors, ensuring timely and quality development of activities and collaborative initiatives, and maintaining good communication with relevant parties.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Master’s degree in social science, education, international studies, sustainability, or related fields. Candidates must have at least 5 years of relevant research experience in education, education for sustainable development (ESD), climate change education, or a related field, preferably in an international context. Knowledge of research and evaluation methods, including qualitative and quantitative data analysis tools, is essential. Experience in developing research products such as peer-reviewed articles, policy briefs, and evaluation reports is required, along with proficiency in drafting complex reports and organizing webinars and podcasts.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as social science, education, international studies, or sustainability. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of the role and contributing effectively to the initiatives led by UNU-IAS.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of relevant research experience is required, particularly in areas related to education, climate change education, and sustainable development. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in international settings and familiarity with research methodologies and evaluation techniques. Experience in developing educational resources and conducting training programs is highly desirable.

Languages:
Excellent writing and communication skills in English are mandatory for this position. Proficiency in Japanese is preferred, and knowledge of another UN official working language would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration is from 15 October 2026 to 31 March 2027 (tentative), with a daily fee of JPY 27,000, totaling a maximum of JPY 2,997,00

• The consultant is expected to work approximately 20 days per month, with payments made monthly upon submission of a timesheet and activity report. The successful candidate will work under a Consultant Contract (CTC) for a maximum of 111 days during the contract period. It is important to note that UNU does not sponsor a working visa for this position, and consultants do not hold international civil servant status. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all backgrounds.