Project Assistant – Social and Human Sciences
JOB DETAIL
OVERVIEW
Parent Sector : Social and Human Sciences Sector (SHS)
Duty Station: New Delhi
Job Family: Social and Human Sciences
Type of contract : Non Staff
Level : Level 3
Duration of contract : 1 year
Recruitment open to : Internal and external candidates
Application Deadline (Midnight Duty Station Time) : 08-04-2025
UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism
OVERVIEW OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE POST
Under the overall authority of the Director of the UNESCO South Asia Regional Office, the functional authority of the Chief of Social and Human Sciences (SHS) Sector, and the direct supervision of the National Programme Officer of the “Empowering Minds: Transforming Lives” project aimed at developing a Global MOOC on the Ethics of AI, the incumbent will provide support in managing the “Empowering Minds: Transforming Lives” project and advancing the Sector’s broader initiatives on AI Ethics, as outlined below:
Project Coordination and Implementation Support:
- Assist the Programme Specialist and the National Project Officer in managing the project timeline, ensuring that curriculum development, content creation, and course delivery align with deadlines.
- Support the meetings of the Project Steering Committee and Advisory Group, including organizing meetings, drafting agendas, and preparing relevant materials.
- Assist in coordinating with subject matter experts, consultants, and production teams to develop course content.
- Assist in coordinating operational activities for the RAM initiatives in India, Bangladesh, and Maldives including supporting logistical arrangements (venue arrangements, invitations, participant lists, etc.) and other support.
- Undertake other tasks as requested by the Director and Chief of SHS Sector, as required
Long Description
Curriculum and Content Development Support:
- Assist in the review and development of the MOOC curriculum, including case studies, practical exercises, and video scripts.
- Support the consolidation and organization of learning resources to ensure alignment with the UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of AI.
Stakeholder Coordination and Engagement Support:
- Help manage communication with UNESCO Headquarters, LG AI Research, and other key partners.
- Facilitate engagement with academic institutions, civil society organizations, and private sector representatives contributing to the MOOC.
- Maintain organized records of project documents, reports, and key stakeholder interactions of UNESCO’s work on AI Ethics including the RAM initiatives in India, Bangladesh, and Maldives.
Long Description
Monitoring, Reporting, and Communication
- Assist in drafting quarterly updates, project reports, and donor submissions, incorporating lessons learned and best practices.
- Contribute to the development of communication materials, including newsletters, reports, and website updates to enhance the project’s visibility.
- Assist with budget tracking and financial monitoring in coordination with the National Programme Officer and the administrative team.
- Contribute to lessons learned documentation for future AI governance initiatives.
COMPETENCIES (Core / Managerial)
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REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education
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Advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) in governance of artificial intelligence, ethical and social implications of artificial intelligence or digital technologies, law and technology, or other related fields.
Skills/Competencies
- Proven organizational and coordination skills, ability to take initiative, establish priorities, monitor work plans, budget, and report on actions and projects.
- Familiarity with project management skills.
- Good interpersonal and communication skills; ability to deal efficiently with partners at different levels.
- Ability to work effectively in a multicultural team environment.
- Capacity to adapt and adjust work schedules and perform diligently under pressure.
- Excellent knowledge management with an understanding of emerging communication and information technologies and their potential uses.
Long Description
Languages
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Excellent knowledge (written and spoken) of English.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
Work Experience
- Minimum 2 years of professional experience in the field of social and human sciences, political science, international relations, and technology policy.
- Experience of working on projects on the ethical, legal, social and governance issues of artificial intelligence and related digital technologies or related areas.
- Experience in UNESCO’s Programmes and/or normative tools in the field of Social and Human Sciences.
- Experience with the United Nations System, multilateral settings/cooperation and development.
Skills/Competencies
- Good knowledge of UNESCO’s work, and familiarity with Social and Human Sciences Sector activities.
BENEFITS AND ENTITLEMENTS
UNESCO’s salaries consist of a basic salary and other benefits which may include if applicable: 30 days annual leave and 15% social security etc. The approximate annual salary range for this post is between INR 1321976/- to INR 1434343/-. For full information on benefits and entitlements, please consult our Guide to Staff Benefits.
SELECTION AND RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. To apply, please visit the UNESCO careers website. No modifications can be made to the application submitted.
The evaluation of candidates is based on the criteria in the vacancy notice, and may include tests and/or assessments, as well as an interview.
UNESCO uses communication technologies such as video or teleconference, e-mail correspondence, etc. for the assessment and evaluation of candidates.
Please note that only selected candidates will be further contacted and candidates in the final selection step will be subject to reference checks based on the information provided.
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UNESCO recalls that paramount consideration in the appointment of staff members shall be the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence and integrity. UNESCO applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment. UNESCO is committed to achieving and sustaining equitable and diverse geographical distribution, as well as gender parity among its staff members in all categories and at all grades. Furthermore, UNESCO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Candidates from non- and under-represented Member States (last update here) are particularly welcome and strongly encouraged to apply. Individuals from minority groups and indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality. Worldwide mobility is required for staff members appointed to international posts.
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