UNESCO is Hiring a National Project Officer (Research and Development) – Apply By 3 May 2026
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is offering an opportunity for a National Project Officer (Research and Development) based in New Delhi. This position is situated within the Education Sector and focuses on programme coordination and research innovation.
The role is offered as a project-based appointment for one year, with the possibility of extension subject to performance and funding availability. The position is open to both internal and external candidates; however, only Indian nationals are eligible to apply. The application deadline is May 3, 2026.
Institutional Context
The role is hosted at the Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (MGIEP), UNESCO’s first Category 1 education institute in the Asia-Pacific region. MGIEP plays a leading role in advancing education aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 4.7, focusing on peace, sustainability, and global citizenship.
The institute is recognised for its work in social emotional learning (SEL), combining scientific research with innovative digital pedagogies to transform education systems and promote a more peaceful and sustainable world.
Key Responsibilities
The National Project Officer will serve as a central resource for research and programme development in social emotional learning. The role combines research, coordination, and communication responsibilities.
Research and Development
- Apply quantitative and qualitative research methods to strengthen evidence for the Cognitive Academic Social Emotional (CASE) framework
- Design and evaluate SEL programmes using immersive digital tools
- Develop evidence-based models to assess the impact of SEL training on educators
- Produce policy-relevant, peer-reviewed research publications
- Align research initiatives with UNESCO’s strategic education objectives
Coordination and Monitoring
- Support implementation and visibility of MGIEP’s SEL programmes across global and national platforms
- Coordinate with UNESCO offices, education ministries, and institutional partners
- Monitor research progress to ensure alignment with timelines, budgets, and quality standards
- Manage external vendors and consultants involved in research and assessment design
- Identify and engage with international conferences for showcasing research outcomes
Communication and Collaboration
- Develop communication materials in collaboration with internal teams to disseminate research findings
- Support cross-functional teams in strengthening research design and outputs
- Contribute to knowledge-sharing initiatives across the institute
Required Qualifications
Candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:
Education
- Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in:
- Psychology
- Cognitive Science
- Neuroscience
- Science of Learning or related fields
Work Experience
- At least four years of progressive experience in research programme design and development
Skills and Competencies
- Strong expertise in research design and methodology
- In-depth knowledge of social emotional learning frameworks and assessments
- Proven track record of academic publications
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to translate complex research into policy and practice
Language Requirements
- Excellent proficiency in English
- Good working knowledge of Hindi
Desirable Qualifications
Additional qualifications that strengthen an application include:
- PhD in a relevant field such as psychology, neuroscience, or cognitive science
- Experience in advanced research programme development
- Knowledge of additional UNESCO official languages (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) or regional Indian languages
Compensation and Benefits
UNESCO offers a competitive compensation package, including:
- Annual starting salary of approximately INR 4,926,329
- 30 days of annual leave
- Medical insurance and pension plan
- Additional allowances where applicable
These benefits are aligned with UNESCO’s global standards for staff welfare and professional support.
Selection Process
Applicants must complete an online application via the UNESCO careers portal before the deadline. The recruitment process may include:
- Written assessments
- Pre-recorded video interviews
- Panel interviews
- Reference checks
Shortlisted candidates may also be considered for inclusion in talent pools for future opportunities.
Organizational Values and Commitment
UNESCO emphasises the following core values:
- Commitment to the organisation
- Integrity and professionalism
- Respect for diversity
- Accountability and innovation
The organisation maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward harassment and is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion across its workforce. Applications from underrepresented groups, including individuals with disabilities and those from minority or indigenous communities, are strongly encouraged.
Additional Information
- UNESCO does not charge any application fees
- All applications are treated with strict confidentiality
- Candidates must provide verified academic credentials if shortlisted
- The retirement age for UNESCO staff is 65 years
Conclusion
This role offers a unique opportunity for qualified professionals to contribute to global education transformation through research and innovation in social emotional learning. Working within UNESCO and MGIEP provides exposure to international collaboration, policy influence, and cutting-edge educational research.
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
