UNESCOUnknownEnvironment & Climate

Preparation Guide

Assistant Director-General for Sciences (Readvertisement) (ADG) — UNESCO

30 days until deadline (22 August 2026)

Expected Timeline

Based on the position grade (ADG), contract type (Staff), and UNESCO's typical recruitment process.

Apply30d left
Screening2-4 weeks
Assessment2-4 weeks
References1-2 weeks
Offer2-4 weeks
Apply
30d left
Screening
2-4 weeks
Assessment
2-4 weeks
References
1-2 weeks
Offer
2-4 weeks
Estimated total process: 2-4 months

Note: UN recruitment timelines vary significantly. Some positions may take longer due to roster reviews, budget approvals, or geographic representation considerations.

Assessment Predictor

Based on the grade level, contract type, and position profile, expect the following evaluations:

Written TestCompetency-Based InterviewTechnical InterviewPresentation / Case StudyLanguage Assessment
Competency-Based Interview (CBI)

The UN uses the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Prepare 2-3 concrete examples for each competency listed below. Focus on recent professional experiences (last 5 years).

Written Assessment

Typically a timed exercise (1-2 hours) testing analytical writing, policy analysis, or technical knowledge relevant to the role. Practice writing concise, structured responses under time pressure.

Presentation / Case Study

Senior positions often require a presentation on a relevant topic or a case study analysis. Prepare a 10-15 minute presentation with clear structure: context → analysis → recommendations.

Competency Breakdown

These competencies were extracted from the vacancy announcement. Prepare STAR-format examples for each.

CoreCommunication
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a time when you had to convey complex technical information to a non-specialist audience. How did you adapt your message and what was the outcome?
CoreTeamwork
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about a situation where you worked with colleagues from diverse cultural backgrounds to achieve a shared goal. What was your specific contribution?
CorePlanning and Organizing
STAR Method Prompt:Give an example of a time when you managed multiple competing priorities with tight deadlines. How did you structure your work and what was the result?
CoreAccountability
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a situation where you took responsibility for a mistake or an unsuccessful outcome. What steps did you take, and what did you learn?
CoreProfessionalism
STAR Method Prompt:Give an example of how you maintained high standards of work quality and composure in a particularly challenging or high-pressure environment.
ManagerialEmpowering Others
STAR Method Prompt:Give an example of how you delegated meaningful authority or created conditions for team members to take ownership of their work.
ManagerialManaging Performance
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about a time when you had to address underperformance in your team. How did you approach it and what was the outcome?
FunctionalKnowledge Sharing
STAR Method Prompt:Describe how you ensured lessons learned from a project or initiative were captured and shared so that others could benefit.
FunctionalInnovation
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about an innovative approach or tool you introduced in your work. How did you get buy-in and what changed as a result?
FunctionalStrategic Thinking
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about a time when you spotted a long-term opportunity or threat ahead of others and translated that insight into a concrete plan or recommendation.

Required Skills & Technical Knowledge

ResearchInnovationGovernanceCapacity BuildingDisaster Risk ReductionClimate ChangeBiodiversitySustainable DevelopmentManaging Global Scientific ProgrammesInstitutionsLeading LargeDiverse TeamsManaging Organizational TransformationIncluding Change ManagementStrategic PlanningScientific ResearchCooperationUnesco’s Strategic ObjectivesOf Wider AdministrativeProgrammatic Processes Within Unesco

Position Profile

GradeADG
SeniorityUnknown
Role TypeEnvironment & Climate
ContractStaff
EducationMaster's
Experience10+ years
LanguagesEnglish, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Russian
SalaryUSD 245,679.72–245,679.72/yr (est.)
View full vacancy Apply now

Preparation Checklist

  • Prepare 2-3 STAR stories for each competency (10 total)
  • Research UNESCO's latest strategic plan and priorities
  • Prepare a concise 2-minute "Tell me about yourself" response
  • Practice analytical writing under time pressure (1-2 hours)
  • Prepare a 10-15 minute presentation on a relevant topic
  • Refresh your French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Russian language skills
  • Read recent news and developments about UNESCO
  • Prepare 3-4 questions to ask the interview panel
  • Review the UN common system values and organizational culture

Pro Tips

  • UN interviews are competency-based — they ask for specific examples, not hypothetical scenarios.
  • Use the STAR method: Situation → Task → Action → Result.
  • Show how your experience aligns with the UN values: integrity, professionalism, respect for diversity.
  • Be specific and quantify your achievements when possible.
  • Mention experience working in multicultural environments — it's highly valued.