Consultant - Student / Young professional in Biological fieldwork

Organizational Context

UNESCO is supporting the Khortytsia National Reserve in Ukraine, which has faced significant challenges due to the full-scale invasion and the destruction of the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant. The organization is providing aid, including conservation materials, emergency repairs, training, and essential equipment for monitoring and digitization. A new project, funded by Sweden, focuses on emergency measures and includes professional training for young professionals to strengthen the Reserve's environmental monitoring capabilities.

Job Purpose

This consultancy aims to enhance the efficiency of biological monitoring activities within the Khortytsia National Reserve by engaging students and young professionals. The initiative, part of a UNESCO project funded by Sweden, seeks to provide practical experience and foster knowledge exchange between young participants and experienced experts. The primary goal is to ensure continuous biological monitoring of Khortytsia Island's natural environment, assessing and documenting ecosystem changes resulting from the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant's destruction. This role offers a valuable opportunity for capacity building and hands-on learning in a critical conservation context.

Responsibilities

The consultant will undertake tasks directly related to biological fieldwork, following the instructions of the Reserve's staff. Key responsibilities include conducting inventory work on flora and fauna species, with a particular focus on protected categories. Participants will be required to complete observation and encounter record sheets accurately. Additionally, they will be responsible for mapping the locations of recorded species encounters using Google Earth and QGIS software. This assignment is designed to provide practical experience and contribute to the ongoing monitoring efforts of the Khortytsia National Reserve, supporting its critical conservation work.

Work Experience

Previous collaboration or experience with the Khortytsia National Reserve is considered an advantage for applicants.

Skills

Strong communication skills are essential for this role.

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