Senior Statistical Assistant (Foresight, Research and Methodology)

Organizational Context

The UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) is the primary global source for comparable statistics on education, science, culture, and communication. It serves as the custodian agency for SDG 4, focusing on quality education. The UIS collaborates with Member States and partners worldwide to produce, validate, and report data, providing essential evidence for policy-making and progress tracking.

Job Purpose

The Senior Statistical Assistant provides essential operational support to the UIS Foresight, Research and Innovation (FRM) Section. This role is crucial for maintaining the integrity of data, managing knowledge effectively, and ensuring the smooth flow of the Section's outputs. By managing datasets, documentation, and daily processes, the incumbent enables analysts and managers to concentrate on substantive analytical and methodological work, thereby supporting the Section's advancement in areas like SDG 4 coordination, strategic foresight, and the development of new methodologies.

Responsibilities

Support the implementation of the Section's work programme, including SDG 4 coordination, strategic foresight, and methodological development. Track workplans, timelines, and deliverables across multiple workstreams, maintaining structured tracking tools. Compile, clean, validate, and update datasets related to SDG 4 indicators and analytical work, ensuring consistency and version control. Prepare datasets for reporting, analysis, and dissemination, and document/archive all related materials. Conduct background research for foresight exercises and SDG 4 reporting, synthesizing information into briefing notes and summaries. Support the preparation of analytical inputs for reports and presentations. Maintain organized repositories of technical documents and meeting records, ensuring version control and accessibility. Assist in the preparation and organization of technical meetings and workshops, including agenda preparation and follow-up on action points. Provide administrative and logistical support for missions, workshops, and procurement processes, contributing to the team's daily functioning.

Work Experience

A minimum of eight years of relevant experience in data processing, database management, or programme support. Demonstrated experience supporting complex projects with multiple workstreams and organizing meetings and logistics is required. Experience within an international organization or on multi-country projects, and exposure to education data or SDG-related work, are desirable.

Skills

Proficiency in statistical software (e.g., R, Stata) and advanced spreadsheet functions. Experience in database and dataset management with a focus on accuracy and version control. Familiarity with document or knowledge-management systems. Strong organizational skills for task tracking and managing multiple deadlines. Clear writing ability for technical notes and documentation.

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