National Project Officer (Research and Development) Job at UNESCO– New Delhi | Salary: INR 4,926,329 per year | Apply Before 3 May 2026

If you are passionate about research, education innovation, and shaping the future of learning, this opportunity could be exactly what you’ve been looking for. UNESCO is currently hiring a National Project Officer (Research and Development) based in New Delhi, India, offering a unique chance to contribute to global education transformation through evidence-based research and digital innovation.

This role sits within the Education Sector (ED) and is linked to the prestigious Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (MGIEP)—a leading institute focused on advancing Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4.7 (SDG 4.7).

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About the Role

The National Project Officer (Research and Development) position is a project-based appointment for one year, with the possibility of extension depending on performance and funding availability. It is open to both internal and external candidates; however, only Indian nationals are eligible to apply.

You will work under the supervision of senior leadership at MGIEP and play a central role in driving research on social emotional learning competencies, translating findings into practical educational tools, and supporting innovative digital pedagogy initiatives.

Organizational Context

MGIEP is a pioneer in combining science, research, and technology to improve education systems globally. The institute focuses on developing SEL frameworks that promote peace, empathy, and sustainability among learners.

As part of this forward-thinking team, you will contribute to designing scalable, research-backed solutions that influence education policy and classroom practices worldwide.

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Key Responsibilities

Research and Development

In this role, you will:

• Apply quantitative and qualitative research methods to strengthen the Cognitive Academic Social Emotional framework.
• Design and implement evidence-based SEL programs using immersive digital tools.
• Develop innovative approaches to assess how teaching exposure (“dosage”) impacts SEL competency development.
• Translate research findings into peer-reviewed publications and policy-relevant outputs.
• Align research initiatives with UNESCO’s strategic goals and annual work plans.

Coordination and Monitoring

You will also:

• Coordinate with internal teams to ensure effective implementation of SEL pilot programs.
• Showcase research outcomes to education ministries, UNESCO offices, and global stakeholders.
• Monitor international conferences and identify opportunities to present MGIEP’s work.
• Track research progress to ensure alignment with timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
• Manage collaborations with external vendors and consultants for assessment design and program delivery.

Communication and Collaboration

• Work closely with communication teams to create engaging materials that present research insights.
• Support other departments with research design and publication efforts.
• Strengthen collaboration across multidisciplinary teams to enhance overall program impact.

Core Competencies

To succeed in this role, you should demonstrate:

• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• High levels of accountability and professionalism
• Ability to innovate and think strategically
• Expertise in planning, organizing, and delivering results
• Capacity to build partnerships and manage change effectively

Required Qualifications

Education

• Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in:
  • Psychology
  • Cognitive Science
  • Neuroscience
  • Science of Learning or related fields

Experience

• At least 4 years of relevant experience in research program design and development.

Skills

• Excellent research design and analytical skills
• Strong knowledge of social emotional learning frameworks
• Proven track record in academic or policy publications
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to translate complex research into practical insights

Languages

• Fluency in English (written and spoken)
• Good knowledge of Hindi

Desirable Qualifications

• A PhD in a relevant field (psychology, neuroscience, etc.)
• Experience managing large-scale research programs
• Knowledge of additional UNESCO languages such as French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian, or regional Indian languages

Salary and Benefits

This role offers a competitive annual starting salary of approximately INR 4,926,329, subject to standard deductions such as pension and insurance.

Additional benefits may include:

• 30 days annual leave
• Medical insurance
• Family allowance (if applicable)
• Pension plan

These benefits make the position not only professionally rewarding but also financially stable.

Application Process

To apply:

• Submit an online application via the official careers platform before 3 May 2026 (midnight Paris time).
• Ensure all information is complete and accurate—no edits can be made after submission.

The recruitment process may include:

• Pre-recorded video interviews
• Written assessments
• Panel interviews
• Reference checks

Shortlisted candidates may also be added to a talent pool for future opportunities.

Important Notes

• UNESCO follows a zero-tolerance policy against harassment.
• The organization strongly promotes diversity, inclusion, and gender equality.
• Candidates from underrepresented groups and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
• No fees are charged at any stage of the recruitment process.

Why This Job Matters

This is more than just a research role—it’s an opportunity to:

• Shape the future of education systems globally
• Contribute to peacebuilding and sustainable development
• Work at the intersection of science, technology, and education
• Influence policy and real-world classroom practices

If you’re driven by impact and innovation, this role provides a platform to make meaningful contributions on a global scale.

Final Thoughts

The National Project Officer (Research and Development) role at UNESCO is ideal for professionals who are deeply invested in research-driven education reform. With its focus on social emotional learning and digital innovation, this position offers a rare chance to work on transformative projects that extend far beyond the classroom.

If you meet the qualifications and are ready to take your career to the next level, don’t miss this opportunity. Submit your application before the deadline and become part of a mission that is shaping a more peaceful and sustainable world through education.