About the opportunity
The Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP), founded in 1964 by Nobel Laureate Abdus Salam and located in Trieste, Italy, seeks to provide scientists from developing countries with continuing education and skills for productive careers. Under the direct supervision of the Head of the Mathematics Section, the incumbent will initiate and undertake world-class research in mathematics, assist in planning and implementing scientific activities, organise seminars and workshops, review applications for postdoctoral positions and diploma courses, and teach in the Diploma Course Programme in Mathematics.
Salary and benefits
- Approximate annual starting salary of 72,131 US dollars
- Basic salary supplemented by other applicable benefits such as 30 days of annual leave
- Family allowance
- Medical insurance
- Pension plan
Who can apply?
- PhD in Mathematics, Physics or in a related field
- At least two years of relevant research experience in pure mathematics or a related area with a documented record of excellence in research
- Excellent oral and written knowledge of English
Required documents
- Complete online application
- Scanned copies of required degrees, diplomas, or certificates if retained for an interview
When to apply
- Application deadline is 09/11/2026 at Midnight Paris Time
How to apply
- Visit the UNESCO Careers website
- Complete the online application providing complete and accurate information before the deadline
- Participate in the selection process which may include pre-recorded video interviews, written assessments, and panel interviews
Additional information
- Position Number: 1ITSC PA129TP
- Grade: P-2
- Parent Sector: Sciences Sector (SCS)
- Duty Station: Trieste, Italy
- Job Family: Natural Sciences
- Contract Type: Project Appointment with a duration of 1 year
- Recruitment is open to both internal and external candidates
- UNESCO applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment and is committed to equitable geographical distribution, gender parity, and workforce diversity
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Early-career to mid-career researchers holding a PhD in mathematics, physics, or related fields with a strong publication record in pure mathematics.
- Scholars passionate about front-line research in fields such as partial differential equations, geometry, probability, statistics, algebra, analysis, number theory, or dynamical systems.
- Professionals eager to combine active research with academic teaching and the mentoring of scientists from developing regions.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is offered as a 1-year project appointment, which represents a fixed-term commitment rather than a permanent post.
- Relocation to Trieste, Italy, is required for this on-site duty station.
- The competitive selection process involves multiple potential stages including written assessments, video interviews, and panel interviews.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role offers an exceptional platform for researchers aiming to consolidate an academic or scientific career within an international intergovernmental organisation. It bridges high-level independent research with pedagogical duties, making it ideal for postdoctoral researchers or early-career academics looking to expand their global network and contribute to scientific capacity-building in developing countries.
Our take
This opportunity is highly suitable for qualified PhD holders in mathematics or related disciplines seeking a prominent international research appointment in Italy. Those unable to relocate or looking for indefinite tenure from the outset may find a 1-year project appointment less aligned with their long-term plans.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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