Senior National Project Officer, Research and Development

Organizational Context

The Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (MGIEP) is a UNESCO category 1 institute dedicated to advancing Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4.7. It focuses on developing and promoting innovative educational approaches for fostering peaceful and sustainable societies. The institute's work involves conceptualizing, designing, and implementing research and capacity-building strategies to enhance member states' policies promoting education for peace, wellbeing, and sustainability.

Job Purpose

Under the guidance of the Director, the Senior National Project Officer will lead the Research and Development Mission. This role involves conceptualizing and implementing interdisciplinary research projects focused on education for peace, wellbeing, and sustainability. The officer will develop research strategies exploring emerging trends in digital pedagogies and Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) competencies in India and globally. Key responsibilities include designing, testing, and implementing digital pedagogies to integrate SEL into education systems across UNESCO Member States. The position also entails fostering collaborative and interdisciplinary research initiatives with relevant UNESCO entities, universities, research institutes, and think tanks, ensuring synergy with the institute's mission. The incumbent will conceive programs, co-design assessments, conduct research, and build capacity for socio-emotional skills through interactive digital pedagogies and evidence-based practices.

Responsibilities

Design and formulate research on the impact of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) competencies on education for peace, wellbeing, and sustainability. Lead the Research and Development Mission to develop national and international funding proposals. Collaborate with UNESCO entities and category 1 institutes on research projects advancing SEL competencies for inclusive and equitable quality education. Lead the design, research, and implementation of science- and evidence-based programs to cultivate competencies for SDG 4.7. Oversee science-based survey initiatives, guide data collection instrument design, and analyze responses to assess program efficacy in India and other member states. Ensure project alignment with government reforms and maintain stakeholder relations. Manage outreach activities, prepare policy briefings, and conduct training workshops. Liaise with other institute missions to plan, implement, monitor, and evaluate projects. Identify opportunities to expand research initiatives on education for peace and sustainable development, particularly in the Global South. Nurture partnerships with member states, educational networks, universities, and research institutes. Contribute to organizational development as a member of the Senior Management Team. Adapt research findings to strengthen the science-policy nexus. Supervise manuscript development for peer review and policy briefs. Prepare reports for the governing board on program performance and impact. Develop strategic research partnerships and organize dialogues to advance research needs in the Global South. Coordinate research inputs across project teams and streamline efforts with UNESCO divisions and field offices.

Work Experience

Minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in research and practice related to education policy, sustainability, and evidence-based pedagogical tool development. Experience in designing and executing research programs, leading multidisciplinary teams, and a strong record of peer-reviewed publications are required. Experience in Social and Emotional Learning and digital pedagogies is essential. Fundraising experience and field research experience with schools and government departments are also necessary.

Skills

Excellent organizational and coordination skills with the ability to prioritize and monitor work plans. Strong communication and representation skills, both oral and written. Advanced analytical and problem-solving abilities with a capacity for innovative approaches. Familiarity with result-based management and excellent IT skills. Ability to capture, develop, share, and utilize information effectively. Commitment to the organization's mandate and vision. Demonstrated research, interpretation, and critical analysis skills. Ability to catalyze new ideas and foster continuous improvement. Capacity to engage diverse partners and build productive relationships.

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