Consultant for UNESCO Social and Human Sciences
Organizational Context
The UNESCO Regional Office in Bangkok, within the Sciences Sector (SCS), promotes scientific knowledge for sustainable development, ethics in science and technology, and social inclusion across Asia and the Pacific. In response to rapid modernization, digital transformation, and increasing social inequalities, UNESCO leverages scientific interdisciplinarity to support evidence-based policy formulation and advance rights and ethics in science and technology.
Job Purpose
This consultancy aims to advance UNESCO's mandate in promoting scientific knowledge and ethical practices in science and technology within the Asia-Pacific region. The role involves advising national institutions in Lao PDR, Thailand, and Vietnam on AI ethics and strategy, and co-leading digital transformation initiatives. Additionally, the consultant will facilitate the development of an interdisciplinary program focused on the science-society interface for climate adaptation, integrating various UNESCO scientific programs. The position also contributes to UNESCO's regional framework on sustainable and cultural tourism, emphasizing youth intercultural dialogue and the promotion of cultural heritage for peace and regional integration in the context of digital transformation.
Responsibilities
The consultant will advise and collaborate with national institutions in Lao PDR, Thailand, and Vietnam on implementing AI ethics recommendations, supporting the development of national AI strategies, and co-leading digital transformation task forces. This includes developing joint programs on the future of skills and providing technical support for AI ethics and environmental assessment initiatives, applying a gender-transformative approach. Furthermore, the consultant will facilitate the development of a scientific interdisciplinary program on the Science-Society Interface for Climate Adaptation in Asia-Pacific, leveraging UNESCO's MOST, MAB, and UGG programs. This involves supervising research on climate adaptation and sustainable tourism, leading stakeholder consultations, coordinating with field offices, and organizing a regional conference. The role also includes contributing technical expertise to intersectoral program design related to sustainable and cultural tourism, youth intercultural dialogue, and the promotion of cultural heritage for peace and regional integration.
Work Experience
A minimum of 10 years of progressive professional experience in international cooperation, policy advice, and development program design and coordination is necessary. This includes extensive experience working with national and international development actors in the Asia-Pacific region, with a strong understanding of its socioeconomic, technological, and cultural contexts. Proven experience in partnership building and supporting multistakeholder dialogues for UN program design, fundraising, and implementation is essential.
Skills
Key skills include excellent analytical abilities, proficiency with digital tools including AI, and strong organizational and project design capabilities. Excellent oral and written communication skills are essential for drafting clear and concise materials. The ability to work effectively in a multicultural team environment is crucial. Familiarity with UNESCO's work and mandate, particularly in social and human sciences, and knowledge of the Asia-Pacific or ASEAN region's geopolitical context are highly desirable.