Environmental Affairs Consultant

Position description

This consultancy aims to support the delivery of work program activities of the STAP to the GEF. Expected output includes research synthesis, summaries of evidence on assigned topics, synthesis of interviews and workshop discussions, outputs of data collection, analysis, and visualization, background papers, and drafts of policy briefs.

Duties and Responsibilities

The United Nations Environment Programme is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. The Scientific and Technical Advisory Panel (STAP) provides independent scientific and technical advice to the Global Environment Facility (GEF) on its policies, strategies, programs, and projects. The STAP comprises a Chair, Panel Members (covering biodiversity, chemicals and waste, climate change mitigation, climate change adaptation, international waters, and land degradation), and advisors. It is supported by a Secretariat that provides substantive and operational assistance in delivering the Panel’s responsibilities. STAP’s work program activities cover topics related to the GEF focal areas (biodiversity, climate change mitigation and adaptation, chemicals and waste, international waters, and land degradation), as well as cross-cutting scientific and technical topics to inform the GEF investments. The STAP work program from July 2025 to June 2026 will address topics such as blended finance, emerging technologies, transformational change, Indigenous Peoples, monitoring, evaluation, and learning, conservation management and global change, as well as the governance of the hydrological cycle. STAP will also be developing its quadrennial report to the GEF Assembly by May 2026. The consultant will conduct technical and research activities for the delivery of STAP work program activities on selected topics from the above list. Under the supervision of the STAP Secretary, the consultant will work with relevant STAP Secretariat staff and the appropriate STAP Panel Members to carry out the following tasks:

• Conduct comprehensive and systematic literature reviews (including academic journals, grey literature, policy documents, and relevant reports) to gather evidence and identify knowledge gaps on designated STAP work program topics;
• Produce high-quality, evidence-based research syntheses that consolidate findings from multiple sources into coherent and concise documents. Develop background papers on assigned topics, providing an in-depth understanding of the subject matter, key issues, limitations, current knowledge, gaps, as well as uncertainties, to inform relevant STAP publications;
• Coordinate organization workshops, interviews, and other events as part of implementing the STAP work program activities. Co-design and implement data collection methodologies for primary research, such as surveys and interviews. Co-develop interview protocols, workshop agendas, and discussion guides tailored to specific research objectives;
• Take structured notes, accurately reflect views; manage, and organize collected data efficiently to ensure accuracy, consistency, and proper documentation; conduct qualitative data analysis to synthesize insights from interviews, workshop discussions, and other data and information collection methods, identifying emerging themes, common perspectives, and areas of divergence; present findings in a structured and insightful manner;
• Source and document datasets and information (for example, from review of project proposals, mid-term, and terminal reviews), distill and analyze the data and information, and present the findings in visuals to inform relevant STAP papers;
• Create compelling data visualizations (e.g., charts, graphs, dashboards) to communicate complex data trends, patterns, and insights effectively; ensure visualizations are accurate, clear, and designed to facilitate understanding and decision-making; prepare data reports and presentations incorporating both quantitative and qualitative findings; prepare slide decks and talking points for STAP members to use at STAP workshops, GEF events, or external events;
• Collaborate closely with STAP Panel Members, Secretariat staff, and other team members to ensure alignment of research activities with overall program objectives; actively participate in meetings, discussions, and reviews;
• Maintain work plans and milestones, and provide timely and regular updates on progress, challenges, and findings to the STAP Secretary, relevant Panel Members, and Secretariat leads. Manage workload effectively to meet deadlines and deliver high-quality output within agreed-upon timelines, prioritizing tasks and adapting to changing needs.

Qualifications/special skills

• Academic: An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent degree) in a field related to environmental science, sustainability science, public policy, economics, international development, or a related field is required;
• Experience: Minimum of one year of relevant experience in research, policy analysis, and/or scientific and technical support work is required. Familiarity and understanding of GEF focal areas (biodiversity, climate change mitigation and adaptation, chemicals and waste, international waters, and land degradation) and cross-cutting themes (e.g., transformation, innovation, resilience, and nature-based solutions) is required;
• Strong research and analytical abilities: ability to synthesize large volumes of scientific literature and policy documents across disciplines; skilled in assessing quality, relevance, and robustness of evidence are required. Experience working with UN agencies with a focus on global environmental issues and sustainable development is desirable;
• Data visualization and communication: experience creating charts, graphs, and visual summaries; ability to translate technical findings into compelling visuals is desirable;
• Excellent writing and communication skills: ability to write clearly, concisely, and persuasively for both technical and non-technical audiences. Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines with minimal supervision. Ability to consistently produce high-quality work with strong documentation and traceability of sources. Strong interpersonal skills, able and willing to work effectively in a multicultural team setting;
• Flexibility and adaptability: The willingness to adjust focus and methods in response to evolving STAP priorities and task requirements.

Languages

• English is the working language at the STAP Secretariat. Fluency in spoken and written English is required. Knowledge of an additional official UN language (e.g., French and Spanish) is an advantage.

Application instructions

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