The UNESCO Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report is recruiting Junior and Mid-Level Research Consultants to support its 2026–2027 reporting cycle. These fully remote consultancy roles offer an exceptional opportunity for education researchers, policy analysts, and development professionals to contribute to one of the world’s most influential education reports tracking progress toward SDG 4 (Quality Education).
Multiple positions are available at Level 1 (Junior) and Level 2 (Mid-Level), with contracts ranging from 7 to 11 months.
📅 Application Deadline: 28 February 2026
📍 Duty Station: Remote / Multiple locations
📄 Contract Type: Individual Consultant (Non-Staff)
About the Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report
The Global Education Monitoring Report is an editorially independent, evidence-based annual publication hosted by UNESCO. Established in 2001, it serves as a key accountability and advocacy tool monitoring progress on education targets under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The GEM Report:
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Tracks progress on SDG 4 and education across other SDGs
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Produces global, regional, and thematic reports
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Develops PEER country profiles used by governments, donors, and researchers worldwide
Upcoming editions in the Countdown to 2030 series will focus on:
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2026: Access & Equity
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2027: Learning & Quality
Available Positions (Multiple Vacancies)
1. Junior Research Consultants – Level 1
Ideal for: Early-career researchers with strong analytical and writing skills looking to gain experience in global education policy research.
Key Responsibilities
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Draft PEER country profiles (1,000 words each)
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Conduct literature reviews and case studies
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Support quantitative and qualitative analysis
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Contribute to fact-checking and referencing
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Assist with advocacy and dissemination activities
Contract Duration
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7–11 months
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Fully remote
2. Mid-Level Research Consultants – Level 2
Ideal for: Experienced education or development researchers with a track record in policy analysis and international research projects.
Key Responsibilities
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Draft sections and case studies for global and regional reports
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Lead research inputs across thematic and regional outputs
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Review and revise country profiles drafted by others
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Fact-check full report chapters (global and regional)
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Contribute to internal and external peer-review processes
Contract Duration
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Up to 11 months
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Fully remote
Scope of Work (Indicative – Mid-Level Example)
Over an 11-month contract, consultants may contribute to:
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52 PEER country profiles (drafted, revised, mapped, uploaded)
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Regional and global report sections and case studies
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Gender report or policy paper boxes
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Fact-checking of global and regional report chapters
(This breakdown is provided to support accurate financial proposals.)
Required Qualifications
Education
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Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Education, Economics, Development Studies, or a related field
Experience
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Junior Level: Minimum 2 years of relevant research experience
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Mid-Level: Demonstrated experience in policy-relevant education research
Required Skills & Competencies
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Excellent drafting and editing skills in English
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Strong attention to detail and adherence to style guides
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Ability to work independently under tight deadlines
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Experience conducting qualitative and quantitative research
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Familiarity with international or multicultural work environments
Desirable Assets
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Knowledge of SDG 4 and global education challenges
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Experience with education policy research or publications
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Skills in data/statistical or spreadsheet software
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Proficiency in another UN language (French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian)
Application Requirements (Very Important)
Instead of an employment history form, applicants must upload one single PDF containing:
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Updated CV
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Technical proposal (1–2 pages) outlining approach and methodology
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Financial proposal indicating a monthly fee (USD, GBP, or EUR)
📌 Incomplete applications will not be considered.
📌 Applications must be submitted in English.
📌 By applying, candidates may be included in UNESCO’s consultant roster unless they opt out.
Selection Process
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Online application via the UNESCO careers portal
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Evaluation based on technical quality and value for money
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Possible written tests and/or interviews
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Reference checks for final candidates only
UNESCO maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward harassment and strongly encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, and candidates from under-represented countries.
Apply Now
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👉 Junior Research Consultants (Level 1):
https://careers.unesco.org/job/Multiple-Junior-research-consultants-for-the-Global-Education-Monitoring-Report-%28multiple-positions%29/1349062557/ -
👉 Mid-Level Research Consultants (Level 2):
https://careers.unesco.org/job/Multiple-Mid-level-research-consultants-for-the-Global-Education-Monitoring-Report-%28multiple-positions%29/1348991757/