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

Job Description

Specific duties include the following:

Provide technical support to the UNEP-led work packages within the “IKI Congo Peatlands” project scope by integrating its outcomes into planning and policy processes at local, district, and national levels in the Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo, promoting sustainable, biodiversity- and climate-friendly management of the Central Congo Basin Peatlands.
Contribute to the establishment of the Internationally linked (online) scientific research that includes profiles of experts with scientific, economic and policy expertise in peatlands to facilitate knowledge exchanges in the form of webinars or workshops and where members can access knowledge products including the latest scientific, economic or policy papers and reports.
Support the creation of partnerships with the private sector to explore options for innovative financing of Peatlands restoration, conservation and sustainable management.
Finalize the coordination, content development, and design of the Global Peatlands Hotspot Atlas (Atlas), in close collaboration with GPI partners, to advance the global monitoring and mapping of peatlands, and publish the Atlas during UNFCCC COP29.
Collaborate with UNEP and GPI partners to increase the dissemination and lobal outreach of the Global Peatlands Assessment (GPA) and the Atlas, ensuring that the findings are communicated in a clear, accessible language to raise awareness among policymakers and the public, foster the development of new research within the scientific community, and strengthen the practical application of these science-based products.\

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.