Research Consultant - Global Peatlands Initiative at United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

• The consultant(s) will be located in UN Environment Programme / Ecosystems Division / Biodiversity, People and Landscapes Unit. The consultant will report to, Programme Management Officer.
• The consultant will provide technical and peatlands-specific expertise to the Biodiversity, People and Landscapes Unit for coordination of scientific or flagship reports and science-based products of the Global Peatlands Initiative.

Specific Duties Include The Following

• Work with partners and UNEP to increase uptake and knowledge on the findings of the Global Peatlands Assessment (GPA) including linking data to World Environmental Situation Room, making data open and available on GPI website, maps and so on.
• Coordinate the regional launching of the GPA chapters and three global chapters to raise awareness of decision-makers, bring on board new scientists and improve the application of the results. Draft policy briefs to accompany the GPA and Hotspot Atlas including overseeing translation and publication processes.
• Engage with partners to advance peatlands monitoring and mapping, linked to the Hotspot Atlas, GPA and Global Peatlands Inventory, Global Forest Watch and more.
• Engage with partners and undertake research for the development of the Global Peatlands Inventory together with Ramsar Secretariat and make preparations and proposals for funding the next iteration of the GPA in coordination with partners.
• Conduct research, coordinate drafting and review of materials and reports to support the implementation of the Global Peatlands Initiative Research Working Group.
• Undertake needs surveys and identify trainers together with GPI partners for the GPI Research Working Group.
• Coordinate targeted training sessions including for Early Career Researchers as part of the GPI Researchers Working Group, prepare agenda, identify trainers and develop presentations as required.
• Facilitate reporting, training, development and documentation of lessons learned from the Global Peatlands Initiative.

Qualifications/special Skills

• Master’s University degree preferably with a specialization in environmental sciences, conservation biology, sustainable management, or related areas is required.
• A minimum of three (3) years of progressive experience in the field of environmental conservation, scientific research or science to policy work is required.
• Experience working on peatlands and/or ecosystems as a topic is required.
• Experience with the UN system especially with UNEP and on this issue is highly desirable.
• Skills and experience in networking, outreach, and engaging with multiple parties is desirable.
• Experience in coordinating research agendas, conducting analysis and possess excellent drafting skills for scientific reports is desirable.

Languages

• English and Spanish are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, fluency in English and Spanish (both oral and written) is required.

Closing Date: 3rd November, 2023