About this role
OVERVIEW Position Number : 1ITSC PA129TP Grade : P-2 Parent Sector : Sciences Sector (SCS) Duty Station : Trieste Job Family : Natural Sciences Contract Type : Project Appointment Duration of contract : 1 year Recruitment open to : Internal and external candidates Application deadline (Midnight Paris Time) : 09/11/2026 UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism ORGANIZATIONAL CONTEXT Founded in 1964 by the late Nobel Laureate Abdus Salam and located in Trieste (Italy), the Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) seeks to accomplish its mandate by providing scientists from developing countries with the continuing education and skills that they need to enjoy long and productive careers. OVERVIEW OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE POST Under the direct supervision of the Head of the Mathematics Section, the incumbent will initiate and undertake world-class research in mathematics and assist the Head of Section in the planning and implementation of its scientific activities and in the fulfilment of the Centre's mission. Essential responsibilities include: KEY ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES Undertake front-line research in mathematics, including topics such as Partial Differential Equations, Algebraic and Differential Geometry, Probability and Statistics, Algebra, Analysis, Number Theory and Dynamical Systems, as well as the interactions between these fields and Computing. Organize seminars, schools, workshops, conferences and topical meetings, and select participants for these activities. Review applications for postdoctoral positions, Associateships, Diploma Courses, and short-term and long-term visits. Teach, as required, in the Diploma Course Programme in Mathematics, and collaborate with Associates and other visitors to the Centre, in particular those from developing countries. Perform additional activities as may be required to ensure the success of the work of the Mathematics Section. Long Description Long Description Long Description COMPETENCIES - Core (C) & Managerial (M) Communication (C) Accountability (C) Innovation (C) Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement (C) Planning and organizing (C) Results focus (C) Teamwork (C) Building partnerships (M) Driving and managing change (M) Strategic thinking (M) Making quality decisions (M) Managing performance (M) Leading and empowering others (M) Short Description For detailed information, please consult the UNESCO Competency Framework . REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS EDUCATION PhD in Mathematics, Physics or in a related field. WORK EXPERIENCE At least two (2) years of relevant research experience in pure mathematics or a related area, with a documented record of excellence in research. DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES Proven ability to conduct independent, front-line research and to publish in peer-reviewed international scientific journals Ability to perform top world-class research in any one of the fields of interest of the present post. Ability to work in a multicultural environment and as part of a team. LANGUAGES Excellent knowledge (oral and written) of English. BENEFITS AND ENTITLEMENTS UNESCO’s salaries consist of a basic salary and other benefits which may include if applicable: 30 days annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, pension plan etc. The approximate annual starting salary for this post is 72 131 US$. For full information on benefits and entitlements, please consult our Guide to Staff Benefits . SELECTION AND HIRING PROCESS Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information, by the above deadline. To apply, please visit the UNESCO Careers website . No modifications can be made to the application once submitted. The process may include pre-recorded video interviews and/or written assessments, interviews with a Panel, as well as reference checks. In addition, candidates may be requested to provide additional information which may be pertinent to the position’s qualifications. Please note that all candidates, whether selected or not, will be informed of the outcome of their application in due course. Short-listed candidates may also be added to Talent Pools; subject to their consent (i.e. Data Privacy Statement). ADDITIONAL INFORMATION UNESCO recalls that paramount consideration in the appointment of staff members shall be the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence and integrity. UNESCO applies to a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment. UNESCO is committed to achieving and sustaining equitable and diverse geographical distribution, as well as gender parity among its staff members in all categories and at all grades. Furthermore, UNESCO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Candidates from non- and under-represented Member States ( last update here ) are particularly welcome and strongly encouraged to apply. lndividuals from minority groups and indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality. Geographical mobility is required for staff members appointed to UNESCO’s international posts. In the event that your candidature is retained for an interview, you will be required to provide, in advance, a scanned copy of the degree(s)/diploma(s)/certificate(s) required for this position. UNESCO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO. The list can be accessed through the link: https://www.whed.net The statutory retirement age at UNESCO is 65 years. UNESCO appointments are subject to medical clearance. Issuance of a visa by the host country of the duty station, which will be facilitated by the Organization, is required for International Professional positions. UNESCO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.