Agriculture Expert Consultant
Organizational Context
The UN Technology Bank for Least Developed Countries (UNTB) strengthens science, technology, and innovation capacities in LDCs. It supports LDCs in adopting and scaling technologies aligned with national priorities, focusing on policy advisory, capacity building, and knowledge services. This role contributes to UNTB's mission by providing specialized agricultural expertise.
Job Purpose
The purpose of this role is to establish and maintain a structured, searchable roster of qualified agriculture experts to support UNTB's work with Least Developed Countries (LDCs). This roster will enable UNTB to respond more efficiently and effectively to country requests for technical assistance, policy advice, research, and project design in agriculture. By facilitating the timely identification and deployment of specialists, the role supports LDCs in assessing, adapting, and scaling appropriate agricultural technologies and innovations, thereby strengthening their capacity development in science, technology, and innovation and fostering knowledge exchange and partnerships.
Responsibilities
The primary responsibility is to serve as a specialized agriculture expert, contributing to UNTB's mandate of strengthening science, technology, and innovation capacities in LDCs. This involves providing technical assistance, policy advice, and research support related to agricultural technologies and innovations. Key duties include identifying, screening, and prioritizing agricultural technologies suitable for LDC contexts, evaluating their technical feasibility and potential benefits, and defining requirements for their adaptation and scale-up. The role also entails conducting technology needs assessments, authoring technical knowledge products, designing and facilitating stakeholder consultations, and developing capacity-building programs. Additionally, responsibilities include designing project proposals, developing implementation and MEL frameworks, and mobilizing financing for technology deployment.
Work Experience
A minimum of eight years of professional experience in agriculture, with substantial experience directly related to the area of expertise in an LDC or developing country, is required. For those with a Master's degree in agricultural technology and engineering, at least 12 years of relevant experience, including hands-on technical work, is necessary. Experience working with government ministries, UN entities, or international development organizations is also required.
Skills
Expertise in agricultural technology and engineering, policy research, assessments, analysis, stakeholder engagement, capacity development, and project design/development/implementation. Proficiency in identifying, screening, and prioritizing agricultural technologies. Ability to conduct technical assessments, feasibility studies, and author knowledge products. Experience in designing and facilitating multi-stakeholder processes and training programs. Strong communication and analytical skills. Fluency in English.