Assistant Director-General for Sciences

Organizational Context

UNESCO is strengthening the coherence and positioning of its scientific mandate in response to evolving global challenges. The Sciences Sector enhances UNESCO's capacity to deliver integrated, policy-relevant, and ethically grounded solutions, advancing innovation and capacity building. It plays a central role in promoting sciences, knowledge, and innovation to build peace and sustainable development, strengthening STI systems globally and fostering international scientific cooperation.

Job Purpose

The Assistant Director-General for Sciences provides intellectual leadership and strategic vision for the Sciences Sector, aligning with UNESCO's Medium-Term Strategy. This role is responsible for the overall implementation of Major Programmes II (Natural Sciences) and III (Social and Human Sciences). The mission is to leverage natural, basic, social, and human sciences as a transformative force for sustainability, human rights, gender equality, peace, and equity. This involves integrating diverse knowledge, technology, ethical reflection, and inclusive dialogue to bridge scientific frontiers with societal relevance, supported by research and evidence-based policy for development.

Responsibilities

Advance UNESCO's initiatives and impact across key science domains, including Social Policies and Inclusion, Ethics, Research and Technology, Ecological and Earth Sciences, and Water Sciences. Strengthen policies and governance related to science, technology, and innovation, enhancing access to scientific advances and knowledge sharing through open science approaches. Empower Member States to manage the ethical, legal, environmental, and societal implications of science and technology, including AI and neuro-technologies. Monitor global scientific trends and their contributions to solving global challenges. Promote knowledge and capacity building in natural, basic, social, and human sciences. Foster international scientific cooperation to address complex social transformations, Earth systems, biodiversity, disaster risk reduction, climate change, and freshwater security. Develop integrated actions with UNESCO's global networks and reinforce links with scientific associations. Promote a human rights-based approach, support youth engagement, and advance intercultural dialogue. Mobilize partnerships and resources, fostering collaboration with diverse stakeholders. Represent UNESCO in high-level forums, strengthening its visibility and thought leadership.

Work Experience

At least fifteen years of progressively responsible professional experience in senior leadership positions related to UNESCO's Sciences Programme, including managing global scientific programmes. Demonstrated capacity for complex negotiations, managing politically sensitive processes, leading diverse teams, and organizational transformation. Substantial experience representing an organization and engaging with high-level officials. Extensive experience in scientific research and cooperation.

Skills

Strong leadership, political acumen, and diplomatic skills. Ability to lead institutional transformation and manage change. Skill in interacting with high-level government officials, private sector leaders, and civil society. Excellent communication and representational abilities. Knowledge of UNESCO's mandate, strategic objectives, and UN system processes.

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