Post : Junior research consultants for the Global Education Monitoring Report (multiple positions)
UNESCO’s Education Sector (ED) has opened an international call for individual consultants to support the renowned Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report, one of the world’s most authoritative and evidence-based publications tracking progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education). This remote consultancy offers education and research professionals the opportunity to contribute to global and regional education analysis shaping policy, advocacy, and development worldwide.
The contract duration ranges from 7 to 11 months, and applications are open to external candidates worldwide. The deadline to apply is 28 February 2026.
About the GEM Report
Established in 2001 and renewed under the 2015 Incheon Declaration, the GEM Report monitors global progress toward education targets within the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. It provides independent, data-driven analysis used by governments, international organizations, and development partners to strengthen inclusive and equitable quality education.
Each edition combines:
- Global monitoring of education progress
- Thematic research and policy analysis
Recent themes have included inclusion, migration, technology, and leadership. The upcoming editions (2026–2027) will focus on access and equity and learning and quality. In addition to the global report, the GEM team produces regional editions and research tools such as PEER country profiles, inequality databases, and policy resources.
Role Overview
Under the supervision of the Chief of Education Policy, consultants will contribute research, analysis, and writing for global and regional reports as well as PEER country profiles. The role involves collaboration with research, communication, and regional teams to ensure accurate, timely, and high-quality outputs.
The consultancy is fully remote, and all application materials must be submitted in English.
Key Responsibilities
Global Report
- Conduct literature reviews and provide research inputs
- Draft sections, case studies, and analytical content
- Support advocacy and dissemination efforts
- Contribute to fact-checking and referencing
Regional Reports
- Provide research and analytical inputs
- Draft sections and case studies
- Support dissemination and verification processes
PEER Country Profiles
- Draft, review, and map country profiles
- Support website publication and updates
- Participate in internal and external review processes
Indicative outputs during the contract include:
- Drafting and revising dozens of country profiles
- Writing report sections, case studies, and policy content
- Fact-checking global and regional report chapters
Required Qualifications
Education
- Master’s degree in Education, Economics, or a related field
Experience
- At least 2 years of research experience in education, economics, or related areas
Core Skills
- Excellent academic and policy writing in English
- Strong research and analytical skills (qualitative and quantitative)
- Attention to detail and ability to meet tight deadlines
- Ability to work independently in an international environment
- Strong communication, teamwork, and organizational skills
Languages
- Fluency in English required
- Knowledge of another UN language is an advantage
Application Process
Applicants must submit a single PDF file including:
- Updated CV
- Technical proposal (approach and methodology, 1–2 pages)
- Financial proposal (monthly fee in USD, EUR, or GBP)
Only complete applications will be considered. Selected candidates may undergo assessments, interviews, and reference checks. By applying, candidates agree to be included in UNESCO’s consultant roster unless they indicate otherwise.
Why This Opportunity Matters
This consultancy offers researchers and education professionals the chance to contribute directly to one of the most influential global education reports, shaping policies and strategies that promote inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all. Working remotely with UNESCO, consultants will support evidence-based decision-making and global advocacy at a critical stage in the countdown to 2030.
Interested candidates should apply through the UNESCO Careers website before 28 February 2026.
