Individual contractor (laboratory technician) (local)

Organizational Context

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Laboratory and Scientific Service (LSS) aims to enhance global forensic capacities. This role supports LSS's Global Scientific and Forensic Programme by providing laboratory assistance, focusing on training, kit preparation, and sample analysis to improve Member States' abilities to detect and identify drugs and precursors.

Job Purpose

This role serves to provide essential laboratory support to the UNODC's Laboratory and Scientific Service (LSS). The primary purpose is to assist in the preparation and delivery of training activities for Member States, ensuring timely and effective logistical support. The role also contributes to the production and quality control of UNODC drug and precursor field identification kits and reference materials. By conducting laboratory analyses, preparing samples, and maintaining laboratory operations, this position directly supports UNODC's mandate to improve national forensic capacities worldwide and facilitate the accurate identification of illicit substances.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include assisting in the preparation and delivery of UNODC training activities, which involves preparing samples and materials, and supporting logistical organization. The role also entails preparing training and capacity-building materials. Performing laboratory analyses using various instrumentation and techniques, such as GC-MS, HPLC, and FTIR, is crucial. Additionally, responsibilities involve preparing, assembling, and quality-checking UNODC drug and precursor test kits and International Collaborative Exercises (ICE) samples. General laboratory operations, including inventory management, database updates, and procurement support, are also part of the role.

Work Experience

A minimum of one year of relevant experience working in a laboratory environment within natural or life sciences is required. Experience in analytical chemistry and hands-on use of laboratory instrumentation (e.g., GC-MS, HPLC, FTIR) is desirable.

Skills

Analytical chemistry, laboratory instrumentation (GC-MS, HPLC, FTIR), sample preparation, kit assembly, inventory management, database updates, communication skills, ability to work independently and in a team, cross-cultural collaboration.

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