Specialist in DDT Risk Assessment and Public Health

Organizational Context

The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) is the global environmental authority, promoting sustainable development. The BRS Secretariat manages multilateral environmental agreements protecting human health from hazardous chemicals. This consultancy supports the Stockholm Convention's efforts to address POPs pesticides, specifically DDT, aligning with Decision SC-12/2 to continue supporting the established process.

Job Purpose

The purpose of this consultancy is to provide specialized subject-matter expertise on Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), public health, tropical epidemiology, entomology, and vector control. The consultant will significantly contribute to the implementation of project activities under the Stockholm Convention, specifically addressing POPs pesticides. This involves collecting and analyzing data to prepare a comprehensive assessment report on DDT production, use, and alternatives, including conclusions and recommendations. Furthermore, the role requires preparing and delivering presentations on these findings to expert groups and providing substantive technical support during consultations and meetings. The consultant's contribution is crucial for enhancing the quality of discussions, ensuring assessment accuracy, and fostering consensus within the DDT expert group, ultimately supporting informed decision-making on DDT use and transition to alternatives.

Responsibilities

The consultant will be responsible for collecting and analyzing comprehensive, evidence-based data on DDT production, use, and alternatives from authoritative sources to inform the assessment report. This includes preparing a structured draft assessment report, approximately 30-40 pages, detailing situational analysis, trends, evaluation of alternatives, country capacities, and initial conclusions for expert review. The consultant will then finalize this assessment report, incorporating expert feedback, to produce a high-quality document with validated conclusions and actionable recommendations on DDT use and transition. Additionally, the role involves preparing and delivering clear, informative presentations to effectively communicate draft findings, updates, and key messages during online pre-meetings and the eleventh expert group meeting. Finally, the consultant will provide substantive technical input and actively participate in discussions to enhance assessment quality, ensure accuracy, and support consensus-building within the DDT expert group.

Work Experience

At least seven years of experience in integrated vector management (IVM) and public health, with extensive experience specifically working on DDT, is required. Previous work related to the Stockholm Convention and familiarity with the DDT expert group's operations are desirable.

Skills

Specialized technical knowledge in tropical epidemiology, entomology, vector control (including DDT use for disease vector control), alternatives to DDT, and pesticide management. Fluency in English is required.

Explore related opportunities