UNESCO GEM Report: Apply Now for Mid-Level Research Consultant Roles in Global Education

Are you passionate about education and eager to contribute to shaping global policy? The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is currently inviting applications for Mid-Level Research Consultants to join the team behind the Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report. This prestigious report is a vital tool for tracking progress on education within the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4, which focuses on inclusive and equitable quality education.

This is an exciting opportunity for education professionals, researchers, and policy experts looking to apply their skills in a high-impact, international setting.

About the GEM Report

The GEM Report, established in 2001 as the Education for All Global Monitoring Report (GMR), is an editorially independent, evidence-based annual publication. It monitors progress in global education and evaluates policies supporting lifelong learning for all.

UNESCO publishes the GEM Report to provide governments, multilateral organizations, civil society, and academia with reliable, high-quality data and analysis. Each report comprises:

• Monitoring of international education targets using the latest data from UNESCO’s Institute for Statistics (UIS).
• Thematic analysis and policy recommendations, drawing on global case studies and research evidence to accelerate progress in achieving education goals.

Recent report themes have included technology in education (2023), leadership in education (2024/5), and in the Countdown to 2030 series, upcoming reports for 2026 and 2027 will focus on access and equity and learning quality, respectively. Additionally, the GEM team produces regional reports and PEER country profiles to support local policymaking.

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Role Overview

The Mid-Level Research Consultant will work under the guidance of the Chief Education Policy Officer, contributing to global, regional, and country-level reports. This is a remote role, offering the flexibility to work from your home country while collaborating with an international team.

Contract Details:

• Duration: 7–11 months
• Type: Affiliated personnel
• Duty Station: Multiple / Remote
• Recruitment Open to: External candidates
• Application Deadline: 14 March 2026

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Key Responsibilities

Consultants will play a crucial role in producing high-quality research outputs for the GEM Report, including:

Global Reports

• Draft sections of the global report with accuracy and clarity.
• Conduct thorough research, literature reviews, case studies, and data analysis.
• Collaborate with team members to ensure coherence and alignment with report objectives.
• Participate in fact-checking and referencing to maintain data reliability.

Regional Reports

• Research and draft sections for regional editions.
• Contribute to advocacy and dissemination efforts of regional findings.
• Assist with fact-checking and data validation.

PEER Country Profiles

• Draft, review, and map country profiles based on standardized templates.
• Prepare profiles for upload to the PEER website.
• Support internal and external review processes.

Workload Example (11-month contract):

• Draft 40 PEER country profiles (~1000 words each).
• Revise 25 profiles drafted by others (~3000 words each).
• Draft case studies and sections for gender, global, and regional reports (~2000–3000 words per section).
• Fact-check chapters for global and regional reports (~15,000 words total).

Mandatory Qualifications

UNESCO seeks highly qualified individuals with:

• Education: Master’s degree or equivalent in Education, Economics, or related fields.
• Experience: At least 4 years of work experience in education or policy research.
• Skills & Competencies:
  • Excellent drafting and communication in English.
  • Ability to multitask and work independently under tight deadlines.
  • Strong research and data analysis skills (qualitative and quantitative).
  • Experience in international, multi-cultural environments.

Desirable Skills:

• Knowledge of SDG 4 and related education issues.
• Understanding global education themes such as technology, leadership, and inclusion.
• Familiarity with statistical software and spreadsheet tools.
• Experience publishing research in education or policy studies.
• Fluency in another UN language (French, Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, Russian) is an asset.

UNESCO Core Values

UNESCO emphasizes professional integrity and a commitment to education for all. Applicants are expected to demonstrate:

• Commitment to the Organization
• Integrity
• Respect for Diversity
• Professionalism

The selection process prioritizes candidates offering the best technical value for money while meeting all professional and ethical standards.

How to Apply

UNESCO uses a comprehensive application package rather than a traditional employment history form. Your single PDF submission should include:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV) – Updated, highlighting relevant experience.
2. Technical Proposal (1–2 pages) – Outlining your approach and methodology for the assignment.
3. Financial Proposal – Monthly fee in USD, GBP, or Euros.

All documents must be submitted in English. Only complete applications will be considered.

Important Notes:

• By applying, you consent to being included in UNESCO’s consultant roster for future assignments. Indicate if you do not wish to be included.
• The position is remote, but candidates must meet UNESCO’s standards for technical competence and integrity.
• No fees are required at any stage of the recruitment process.

Benefits of This Role

Working as a Mid-Level Research Consultant with UNESCO offers several key advantages:

1. Global Impact – Contribute to reports that guide international education policy.
2. Professional Growth – Enhance research, policy analysis, and international collaboration skills.
3. Flexible Remote Work – Participate in a global team without relocating.
4. Exposure to Diverse Contexts – Engage with regional and thematic education issues worldwide.
5. Networking Opportunities – Work alongside experts, academics, and policymakers in education.
6. UNESCO Reputation – Boost your profile by contributing to a globally recognized and authoritative report.

Why This Opportunity Matters

Education is a cornerstone of sustainable development. Through the GEM Report, UNESCO provides evidence-based guidance to governments, NGOs, and multilateral agencies. By joining this team, consultants directly influence global policy, monitor progress on SDG 4, and support initiatives that promote equitable access to quality education for millions of learners worldwide.

Your research, analyses, and contributions help ensure that countries can effectively implement education strategies, track inequalities, and design interventions that make a tangible difference in communities around the world.

Diversity and Inclusion

UNESCO is committed to:

• Achieving geographical and gender diversity.
• Supporting applications from under-represented Member States, minority groups, indigenous groups, and persons with disabilities.
• Creating a safe, inclusive, and non-discriminatory work environment.

The organization applies a zero-tolerance policy for harassment and encourages global participation in all stages of its reporting and monitoring work.

Final Thoughts

If you are an education researcher or policy expert seeking a challenging and rewarding opportunity to contribute to global education, the GEM Report consultancy with UNESCO is the ideal platform. Your work will be instrumental in shaping education policy, monitoring progress towards SDGs, and advocating for inclusive, equitable, and quality education worldwide.

Applications are open until 14 March 2026. Don’t miss this chance to join a prestigious international organization and make a meaningful global impact.