Associate Programme Officer - Sciences

Organizational Context

UNESCO's Natural Sciences Sector (SC) in Dakar, Senegal, operates under the overall authority of the Regional Director. This role supports the implementation of the Sciences program across 15 countries in West Africa. The program aims to address critical regional needs in biodiversity, ecosystems management, and climate resilience, aligning with UNESCO's global mandate to foster peace and sustainable development through science, education, and culture. The incumbent will work under the supervision of the program specialist for Sciences.

Job Purpose

The primary purpose of this role is to support the effective implementation of the Natural Sciences program across 15 West African countries. The incumbent will contribute significantly to initiatives focused on biodiversity, ecosystems management, and climate resilience, particularly within the framework of the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Program, ensuring alignment with Member States' needs. This position also involves supporting other critical Natural Sciences sector activities, including Science Technology and Innovation (STI), water sciences, basic sciences, and Disaster Risk Management. A key aspect is to foster collaboration with diverse stakeholders, including national authorities, UN agencies, and scientific institutions, to develop and execute joint programs. The role is instrumental in strengthening program activities related to natural resources management and supporting UNESCO's broader mission as a catalyst for sustainable development through scientific innovation and partnerships.

Responsibilities

The incumbent will contribute to the development, coordination, and implementation of activities focused on biodiversity, ecosystems management, and climate resilience under the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Program, aligning with Member States' needs. This includes supporting the implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting for other Natural Sciences sector activities such as Science Technology and Innovation (STI), water sciences, basic sciences, and Disaster Risk Management. A key responsibility involves regular interaction with diverse stakeholders, including regional and national authorities, National Commissions for UNESCO, UN agencies, scientific institutions, and NGOs, to develop and implement joint programs and represent the Organization in various platforms. The role also encompasses contributing to resource mobilization by preparing project proposals and concept notes aligned with national priorities, and fostering partnerships with national authorities, the private sector, civil society, and funding bodies. Furthermore, the incumbent will provide project management support by coordinating activity planning, ensuring collaborative implementation, organizing field monitoring and evaluation missions, preparing reports, maintaining strong relationships with partners, and ensuring project visibility through effective communication.

Work Experience

Preferably a minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience in environmental engineering, ecology, biodiversity, and/or natural resources management. Desirable experience includes activities or projects involving ecological science education, training, or research on ecosystems and biodiversity conservation, water management, vulnerability analysis, adaptation, and resilience within the context of climate change.

Skills

Required skills include strong communication, accountability, innovation, and a commitment to knowledge sharing and continuous improvement. Effective planning and organizing abilities are essential, alongside strong teamwork skills. Expertise in ecological science, biodiversity conservation, water management, vulnerability analysis, adaptation, and resilience in climate change contexts is highly desirable.

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