The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has opened a new opportunity for a Project Assistant in the Social and Human Sciences Sector (SHS) at its New Delhi office. This role, which is available to both internal and external candidates, offers an exciting chance to contribute to UNESCO’s global initiatives, particularly in the field of AI Ethics.
Key Responsibilities
The selected candidate will work under the overall authority of the Director of the UNESCO South Asia Regional Office and report directly to the National Programme Officer of the “Empowering Minds: Transforming Lives” project. This initiative focuses on developing a Global MOOC on the Ethics of AI and other key activities within the SHS sector.
Project Coordination and Implementation Support
- Assist in managing project timelines, ensuring that curriculum development and course delivery align with set deadlines.
- Support meetings of the Project Steering Committee and Advisory Group, including organizing logistics and preparing materials.
- Coordinate with experts, consultants, and production teams to facilitate course content development.
- Assist in operational activities for RAM initiatives in India, Bangladesh, and Maldives, including logistical arrangements.
- Undertake additional tasks as assigned by the Director and the Chief of SHS Sector.
Curriculum and Content Development Support
- Review and contribute to the development of MOOC curricula, including case studies and video scripts.
- Organize and consolidate learning resources to align with UNESCO’s Recommendation on the Ethics of AI.
Stakeholder Coordination and Engagement Support
- Manage communication with UNESCO Headquarters, LG AI Research, and other key stakeholders.
- Facilitate collaborations with academic institutions, civil society organizations, and private sector partners.
- Maintain organized records of project documentation and UNESCO’s AI Ethics initiatives in India, Bangladesh, and Maldives.
Monitoring, Reporting, and Communication
- Assist in drafting quarterly updates, project reports, and donor submissions.
- Contribute to the development of communication materials, including newsletters and website updates.
- Support budget tracking and financial monitoring.
- Document lessons learned for future AI governance initiatives.
Competencies and Qualifications
Core Competencies
- Accountability
- Communication
- Innovation
- Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement
- Planning and organizing
- Results focus
- Teamwork
Required Qualifications
- Education: Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in AI governance, digital ethics, law and technology, political science, or a related field.
- Skills:
- Strong organizational and coordination abilities.
- Familiarity with project management principles.
- Good interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a multicultural team.
- Adaptability and ability to perform under pressure.
- Knowledge of emerging communication and information technologies.
- Languages: Excellent command of English (written and spoken).
Desirable Qualifications
- Work Experience: At least two years of professional experience in social and human sciences, international relations, or technology policy.
- Experience working on AI ethics, digital technology governance, or related projects.
- Familiarity with UNESCO’s programmes and normative frameworks in Social and Human Sciences.
- Experience within the United Nations System or in multilateral cooperation settings.
- Understanding of UNESCO’s work in the Social and Human Sciences Sector.
Benefits and Entitlements
This position offers an annual salary between INR 1,321,976 and INR 1,434,343, along with 30 days of annual leave and a 15% social security contribution. Additional benefits may apply, subject to UNESCO policies.
Application Process
Interested candidates must complete an online application via the UNESCO careers website before midnight on April 8, 2025 (duty station time). No modifications can be made after submission.
The selection process includes assessments and interviews, potentially conducted via video conferencing. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps.
For detailed information, visit the UNESCO Competency Framework and the Guide to Staff Benefits.
This opportunity provides a platform to engage with global AI ethics initiatives and contribute meaningfully to UNESCO’s mission in social and human sciences. Apply today to be part of this transformative journey.