UNESCO Book Reviews Editor (Remote) 2026: Paid Consultancy Opportunity with €10,500 Total Compensation

The UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning (UIL) is inviting applications for the role of Book Reviews Editor for its flagship academic journal, the International Review of Education – Journal of Lifelong Learning (IRE). This remote consultancy opportunity offers experienced professionals in education and research the chance to contribute to one of the world’s leading journals in lifelong learning while working within the United Nations system.

This position is ideal for academics, editors, and researchers who are deeply engaged in education, lifelong learning, and scholarly publishing, and who wish to play a key role in shaping global academic discourse.

About UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning (UIL)

The UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning (UIL) is a globally recognized institution that supports UNESCO Member States in advancing lifelong learning policies and systems. Its work focuses on:

• Learning ecosystems
• Skills development for life and work
• Inclusive and equitable education
• Literacy and non-formal education

UIL hosts one of the largest specialized libraries in lifelong learning and manages the International Review of Education, one of the longest-running journals in the field since its establishment in 1955.

About the Role: Book Reviews Editor

The selected consultant will serve as Book Reviews Editor for the International Review of Education – Journal of Lifelong Learning (IRE), a peer-reviewed journal published in English by Springer.

This role is central to maintaining the journal’s academic quality, diversity, and relevance in the field of lifelong learning.

Key Responsibilities

The Book Reviews Editor will work under the supervision of the Executive Editor and contribute to both editorial and strategic aspects of the journal.

Core Responsibilities

• Identify and select relevant books for review by:
  • Monitoring publisher catalogues
  • Consulting academic networks
  • Reviewing peer journals
• Commission and manage book review submissions by:
  • Identifying qualified reviewers
  • Providing clear submission guidelines
  • Coordinating timelines and expectations
• Edit and evaluate submitted reviews by:
  • Ensuring quality, clarity, and academic rigor
  • Providing feedback and revision guidance
  • Making editorial decisions on acceptance
• Maintain reviewer database and records
• Decide on the inclusion of reviews in each journal issue in collaboration with the editorial team

Additional Responsibilities

• Support the peer review process for academic articles
• Help attract high-quality research submissions
• Participate in academic events and conferences
• Contribute to strengthening the journal’s global reputation
• Report to the Editorial Board and Executive Editor when required

Work Modality and Duration

• Location: Fully remote
• Contract Duration:
  • Initial 2-month contract starting May 2026
  • Followed by a 5-month extension (based on performance)

This flexible arrangement allows professionals worldwide to participate without relocation.

Deliverables

The consultant will be expected to:

• Submit monthly progress reports
• Present an annual report to the Editorial Board (November)
• Maintain consistent editorial output and workflow

Compensation and Payment Structure

UNESCO offers a structured payment plan for this consultancy role.

Financial Details

• Monthly Payment: €1,500
• Total Compensation: €10,500
• Payment Schedule: 7 installments based on deliverables and reporting

Payments are contingent upon submission of required reports and invoices.

Required Competencies

Candidates must demonstrate strong professional and interpersonal competencies aligned with UNESCO standards.

Core Competencies

• Accountability
• Communication
• Planning and organization
• Teamwork
• Professionalism

Candidates should be capable of working independently while collaborating effectively in an international, multicultural environment. For detailed information, please consult the UNESCO Competency Framework.

Why You Should Apply

This opportunity provides a rare chance to:

• Work with UNESCO and contribute to global education discourse
• Gain editorial experience in a leading academic journal
• Expand your professional network internationally
• Influence research and knowledge in lifelong learning
• Work remotely with flexible arrangements

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit a complete application package as a single PDF file.

Required Documents

1. Full CV detailing:
   • Academic background
   • Publications
   • Conferences attended
   • Professional memberships
2. Cover Letter including:
   • Motivation for applying
   • Ideas for the book reviews section
   • Explanation of suitability for the role

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Application Process

To apply:

• Submit your application via the UNESCO careers portal
• Upload a single consolidated PDF (CV + Cover Letter)
• Ensure all information is complete and accurate

Applications will be reviewed based on:

• Relevance of experience
• Academic and editorial expertise
• Alignment with UNESCO values

Selection Process

The recruitment process may include:

• Application screening
• Competency-based assessments
• Interviews (virtual)
• Reference checks

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Application Deadline

The deadline to apply for the UNESCO Book Reviews Editor role is:

April 17, 2026 (Midnight Paris Time)

Applicants are encouraged to submit early to avoid last-minute issues.

For any questions please contact: ire@unesco.org

 

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