UNESCO is recruiting an Associate Research Officer in Mathematics at ICTP in Trieste, Italy. The one-year P-2 position offers an approximate annual starting salary of US$72,131. Apply by 9 November 2026.
Background & Job Description
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is inviting applications for an Associate Research Officer (Mathematics) at the Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) in Trieste, Italy.
The position is within UNESCO’s Sciences Sector and focuses on conducting advanced mathematical research while supporting the scientific activities of the Mathematics Section. ICTP was founded in 1964 by Nobel Laureate Abdus Salam to support scientists, particularly those from developing countries, through continuing education and research opportunities.
The successful candidate will undertake independent research, contribute to scientific events, support academic programmes and collaborate with researchers from different countries.
The position is a one-year project appointment at the P-2 professional grade, with an approximate annual starting salary of US$72,131.
Applications close on 9 November 2026.
Job Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Organisation | UNESCO |
| Position | Associate Research Officer (Mathematics) |
| Host institution | Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) |
| Location | Trieste, Italy |
| Grade | P-2 |
| Contract type | Project appointment |
| Duration | 1 year |
| Annual starting salary | Approximately US$72,131 |
| Job family | Natural Sciences |
| Required qualification | PhD in Mathematics, Physics or a related field |
| Application deadline | 9 November 2026, midnight Paris time |
| Official application | Apply through UNESCO Careers |
Tasks and Responsibilities
The Associate Research Officer will work under the direct supervision of the Head of the Mathematics Section. The role combines advanced research with scientific programme coordination and academic collaboration.
Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting research in areas such as partial differential equations, algebraic and differential geometry, probability and statistics, algebra, analysis, number theory and dynamical systems.
- Exploring connections between mathematics and computing.
- Organising seminars, schools, workshops, conferences and other scientific meetings.
- Reviewing applications for postdoctoral positions, Associateships, Diploma Courses and research visits.
- Teaching, when required, within ICTP’s Diploma Course Programme in Mathematics.
- Collaborating with researchers and visiting academics, particularly those from developing countries.
- Supporting additional scientific activities that contribute to the Mathematics Section’s objectives.
The position offers an opportunity to contribute to international mathematical research while supporting scientific collaboration and education.
Qualifications and Eligibility
Education
Applicants must hold a PhD in Mathematics, Physics or a related field.
Work Experience
Candidates must have at least two years of relevant research experience in pure mathematics or a related area, supported by a documented record of research excellence.
Desirable Skills and Competencies
UNESCO is seeking candidates who can conduct independent, high-level research and publish in peer-reviewed international scientific journals.
Applicants should demonstrate the ability to perform outstanding research in at least one of the fields relevant to the post. The ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment and collaborate with colleagues is also desirable.
Language Requirements
Candidates must have an excellent command of English, both written and spoken.
Applicants should also be prepared to demonstrate UNESCO’s core values, including integrity, professionalism, respect for diversity and commitment to the organisation.
Additional Information
Salary and Benefits
The approximate annual starting salary is US$72,131. Depending on eligibility and applicable conditions, UNESCO benefits may include:
- 30 days of annual leave.
- Family allowances.
- Medical insurance.
- A pension plan.
The organisation provides a Guide to Staff Benefits for further details.
Application Deadline
Applications must be submitted by 9 November 2026, midnight Paris time.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit an online application through the official UNESCO Associate Research Officer vacancy page.
Applicants must provide complete and accurate information. UNESCO states that submitted applications cannot be modified, so candidates should carefully check their details before submission.
The selection process may include a recorded video interview, written assessments, a panel interview and reference checks. Shortlisted candidates may also be asked to provide copies of their academic qualifications.
UNESCO does not charge applicants a fee at any stage of recruitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the UNESCO Associate Research Officer (Mathematics) position?
It is a research position at ICTP in Trieste, Italy, involving advanced mathematical research, scientific event coordination, teaching when required and collaboration with international researchers.
2. How much does the position pay?
The approximate annual starting salary is US$72,131, with additional benefits potentially available under UNESCO’s applicable staff conditions.
3. Where is the position based?
The position is based at the Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics in Trieste, Italy.
4. What qualifications are required?
Applicants must hold a PhD in Mathematics, Physics or a related field and have at least two years of relevant research experience.
5. Which research fields are relevant?
The position covers areas including partial differential equations, geometry, probability and statistics, algebra, analysis, number theory, dynamical systems and their connections with computing.
6. Is English proficiency required?
Yes. Applicants must have an excellent knowledge of spoken and written English.
7. What is the contract duration?
The advertised position is a one-year project appointment at the P-2 grade.
8. When is the application deadline?
The closing date is 9 November 2026, midnight Paris time.
9. What benefits may be available?
Depending on applicable conditions, benefits may include annual leave, family allowances, medical insurance and a pension plan.
10. How can I apply?
Submit your application through the official UNESCO Careers vacancy page.
Opportunities Feed Assessment
The UNESCO Associate Research Officer (Mathematics) opportunity may suit researchers with a strong mathematical background, a PhD and a record of research excellence who want to contribute to an international scientific institution. Its professional-grade appointment, research responsibilities and potential staff benefits make it relevant to experienced early-career researchers seeking an international research career.
Disclaimer: Opportunities Feed shares employment and education opportunities for informational purposes. It is not affiliated with UNESCO or ICTP and does not recruit on their behalf. Applicants should confirm all eligibility requirements, salary conditions and application details through the official UNESCO website.
SEO Keywords: UNESCO Associate Research Officer Mathematics 2026, UNESCO research jobs Italy, ICTP mathematics research position, UNESCO careers 2026, P-2 research officer vacancy, mathematics research jobs, PhD mathematics jobs Europe, physics research jobs Italy, international research positions, UNESCO salary 2026, scientific research careers Italy, mathematical sciences jobs
