Assistant Director-General for Sciences (Readvertisement)

Organizational Context

UNESCO's Sciences Sector operates within an evolving global landscape marked by rapid technological change and complex sustainability challenges. The sector aims to strengthen the coherence and positioning of UNESCO's scientific mandate, fostering closer alignment between natural, basic, social, and human sciences. It enhances UNESCO's capacity to deliver integrated, policy-relevant, and ethically grounded solutions, advancing innovation and capacity building while respecting Member States' mandates and intergovernmental programmes.

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 governance, fostering inclusive dialogue across disciplines and knowledge systems. The aim is to strengthen the link between scientific frontiers and 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 emerging technologies like AI. Monitor global scientific trends and their contributions to solving global challenges, operating in a multidisciplinary manner. Promote knowledge and capacity building in natural, basic, social, and human sciences, fostering responsible technological advancements. 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, intercultural dialogue, and intergovernmental cooperation in sports and anti-doping. Strengthen philosophy, humanities, and historical programmes. Mobilize partnerships and extrabudgetary resources, fostering collaboration with diverse stakeholders. Foster innovation and foresight in sciences, representing UNESCO in high-level forums.

Work Experience

At least fifteen years of progressively responsible professional experience in senior leadership positions related to UNESCO's Sciences Programme, including international assignments. Demonstrated experience managing global scientific programmes, conducting complex negotiations, and leading diverse teams. 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. Excellent communication and representational abilities. Strong capacity to interact with high-level government officials, private sector leaders, and civil society. Ability to mobilize resources and build partnerships. Knowledge of UNESCO's mandate and the UN system.

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