Senior Statistical Assistant (Foresight, Research and Methodology)
Only candidates who are entitled to work in Canada may apply to this position.
ORGANIZATIONAL CONTEXT The UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) is the official source of internationally comparable data in education, science, culture, and communication. The UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) is the official source of internationally comparable data in education, science, culture, and communication, and serves as the custodian agency for SDG 4 on quality education. In this capacity, the UIS coordinates the production, validation, and reporting of data with Member States and partners worldwide, ensuring the global community has the reliable evidence it needs to track progress and shape policy.
The Foresight, Research and Innovation (FRM) Section operates at the most forward-looking edge of this work, leading SDG 4 coordination, anticipating emerging data needs through strategic foresight, and developing new methodologies, including frameworks for learning assessment. This is demanding work—multiple workstreams, complex technical inputs, and a wide network of national and international partners, all in motion at once. As the agenda grows, so does the behind-the-scenes effort that sustains it: maintaining datasets, documenting processes, organizing meetings, and keeping knowledge accessible and consistent.
These demands have outpaced existing capacity.
The Senior Statistical Assistant fills that gap. This is not a peripheral role but core operational infrastructure—safeguarding data integrity, powering effective knowledge management, and keeping the Section's outputs flowing smoothly. By holding this foundation steady, the incumbent frees the Section's analytical and methodological work to advance with rigor and continuity. The Terms of Reference that follow set out exactly what this role delivers.
OVERVIEW OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE POST
This role is the operational backbone of the UIS Foresight, Research and Innovation Section. As its work on SDG4 coordination, foresight, and methodological development grows busier and more complex, the Senior Statistical Assistant keeps the data, documents, and daily processes organized—freeing analysts and managers to focus on the substantive work.
The job centers on three things:
- data and documentation: compiling, cleaning, and version-controlling SDG4 datasets and technical records);
- research and coordination: turning background information into briefing notes and running meetings, agendas, and follow-ups with partners and Member States), and
- programme and admin support: tracking deliverables across workstreams and handling mission, workshop, and procurement logistics.
KEY ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Programme & Workstream Support- Support implementation of the Section's work programme, including SDG 4 coordination, strategic foresight, and methodological development
- Track workplans, timelines, and deliverables across multiple workstreams
- Maintain structured tracking tools (e.g., task lists, document logs, input matrices)
- Support coordination of inputs from internal teams and external partners
- Compile, clean, validate, and update datasets related to SDG 4 indicators and analytical work
- Maintain databases, indicator series, and metadata, ensuring consistency and version control
- Prepare datasets for reporting, analysis, and dissemination
- Document and archive datasets and related materials
- Conduct structured background research supporting foresight exercises, methodological development, and SDG 4 reporting
- Compile and synthesize information into briefing notes, tables, charts, and summaries
- Support preparation of analytical inputs for reports and presentations
- Maintain organized repositories of technical documents, guidance materials, and meeting records
- Ensure version control and accessibility of documents
- Support drafting and formatting of technical notes, guidance documents, and meeting summaries
- Support preparation and organization of technical meetings, workshops, and consultations
- Assist with agenda preparation, compilation of background documents, and follow-up on action points
- Facilitate communication with partners and Member States (logistical and documentation support)
- Provide logistical and administrative support for missions, workshops, and contracts
- Support procurement and coordination processes as required
- Contribute to the smooth day-to-day functioning of the team
EDUCATION
- Completed secondary education, or technical or vocational schooling.
- At least eight (8) years of relevant experience in data processing, database management or programme support, including demonstrated experience supporting projects with several moving parts and organizing meetings and logistics.
- Proficiency with statistical software (for example R or Stata) and advanced spreadsheet functions.
- Experience maintaining databases, datasets and metadata, with strong attention to accuracy and version control.
- Experience using document or knowledge-management systems and documenting processes.
- Strong organizational skills, with the ability to track tasks and manage several workstreams and deadlines at once.
- Clear writing, able to produce technical notes and documentation.
- Excellent knowledge of English (written and spoken).
