About the opportunity
The Agrifood Economics and Policy Division (ESA) of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) conducts economic research and policy analysis to support the transformation toward efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. The division leads the production of flagship publications such as The State of Food and Agriculture (SOFA) and The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI). The incumbent will support the preparation of the SOFI report through targeted research, coordination, communication, and data-management activities, contributing to outreach for the SOFI 2026 edition and analytical groundwork for the SOFI 2027 edition.
Salary and benefits
- Remuneration through a Consultant or Personal Services Agreement (PSA) contract
- Opportunity to contribute to high-profile international United Nations flagship publications
- Professional development and experience within an international specialized agency
Who can apply?
- For consultants: Advanced university degree in international relations, public policy, communication, or related fields from an IAU/UNESCO-recognized institution, or a bachelor's degree with two additional years of relevant professional experience
- For PSAs: University degree or technical degree/certificate in international relations, public policy, communication, or related fields from an IAU/UNESCO-recognized institution
- At least one year of relevant professional experience in research, evidence synthesis, data analysis, communications, or related work relevant to food security and nutrition
- Working knowledge (level C) of English
Required documents
- Online profile containing complete employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills
- Letter of motivation attached to the online profile
When to apply
- Vacancy announcement posted on October 30, 2026
- Application deadline is November 13, 2026, at 10:59 PM
How to apply
- Visit the FAO recruitment portal and sign in or create an account
- Complete and update your online profile with accurate education, employment, and language records
- Attach a letter of motivation to your online profile
- Submit your application through the recruitment portal before the deadline
Additional information
- FAO does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process
- Academic credentials must be obtained from an institution recognized in the IAU/UNESCO World Higher Education Database
- Appointment is subject to certification of medical fitness, required visas or accreditation, and security clearances
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…
- Strong fit for professionals with a background in international development, public policy, or communications who have at least one year of experience in data analysis or research related to food security and nutrition.
- Ideal for candidates seeking direct experience contributing to major United Nations flagship reports such as SOFI and engaging in inter-agency coordination.
- Well-suited for individuals with strong quantitative skills who can handle data-management, cleaning, and preparation of figures and tables.
What should you think carefully about?
- This is a non-staff contract opportunity (Consultant / PSA) with a duration of up to 11 months, meaning it is a fixed-term assignment rather than a permanent staff position.
- Candidates must ensure their degrees are formally recognized by IAU/UNESCO, as unaccredited credentials will not be considered.
- Relocation or remote work arrangements should be verified directly with FAO since the location is listed as various locations.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role offers an exceptional opportunity to build specialized professional experience within the United Nations system, enhance research and data management skills, and contribute directly to global policy dialogues on food security and nutrition.
Our take
Applicants with relevant degrees and professional experience in food systems, communications, or policy research should seriously consider applying before the November deadline, keeping in mind the temporary nature of consultant and PSA contracts.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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