Consultant to Conduct a Technical Study on Access and Benefit-Sharing related to the Utilization of Genetic Resources, Traditional Knowledge and Digital Sequence Information
Organizational Context
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority. The Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (SCBD), administered by UNEP and located in Montreal, supports the Convention's objectives: conservation, sustainable use, and equitable benefit-sharing from genetic resources. This role supports the SCBD's work.
Job Purpose
This consultancy aims to produce a comprehensive technical study and a draft action plan concerning access and benefit-sharing (ABS) related to genetic resources, traditional knowledge, and digital sequence information (DSI). The study will analyze the experiences of indigenous peoples and local communities with ABS frameworks. The process involves desk research, analysis of documented experiences, a peer review phase with stakeholders, and finalization of the study and action plan. The ultimate goal is to support the effective implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity by providing clear, accessible, and implementation-oriented outputs.
Responsibilities
The consultant will conduct a thorough desk review of relevant literature, national ABS measures, and existing case studies. They will analyze documented experiences and inputs from indigenous peoples and local communities using a regionally balanced approach. Key duties include identifying cross-cutting trends, best practices, and implementation gaps. The consultant will prepare a first draft of the technical study and action plan for review, support the peer review process by analyzing feedback, and finally, prepare the finalized technical study and draft action plan, ensuring clarity, accessibility, and implementation focus.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of work experience in biodiversity policy, traditional knowledge, access and benefit-sharing, environmental law, or international policy processes is required. Experience in technical research, policy analysis, drafting reports, and working specifically on ABS related to genetic resources, traditional knowledge, and digital sequence information is desirable.
Skills
Strong analytical and research skills; ability to define study scope and plan; excellent knowledge of genetic resources, traditional knowledge, and digital sequence information; excellent writing and communication skills; ability to work independently and meet deadlines; professionalism; teamwork.