Service Contract

Organizational Context

UNESCO's Natural Sciences Sector (SC) in Dakar, Senegal, operates under the Regional Director's authority, focusing on West Africa. This role supports the implementation of the Sciences program across 15 countries in the region. The work involves contributing to biodiversity, ecosystem management, and climate resilience initiatives, aligning with the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Program and Member States' needs. The incumbent will also support other Natural Sciences activities, fostering sustainable development.

Job Purpose

The primary purpose of this role is to support the comprehensive implementation of UNESCO's Sciences program across 15 countries in West Africa, operating under the guidance of the Regional Director and the program specialist for Sciences. The incumbent will contribute significantly to initiatives focused on biodiversity, ecosystem management, and climate resilience, particularly within the framework of the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Program, ensuring alignment with Member States' priorities. 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 objective is to foster sustainable development by engaging with diverse stakeholders and contributing to resource mobilization efforts to strengthen natural resources management programs.

Responsibilities

The incumbent will contribute to the development, coordination, and implementation of activities focused on biodiversity, ecosystem management, and climate resilience, specifically within the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Program, aligning with Member States' needs. This includes supporting the monitoring, evaluation, and reporting for other Natural Sciences sector initiatives, 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, UN agencies, scientific institutions, and NGOs, to develop and implement joint programs and represent the Organization in various forums. The role also entails contributing to resource mobilization by preparing project proposals and concept notes to strengthen natural resources management. Furthermore, the incumbent will seek and develop partnerships with national authorities, the private sector, civil society, and multilateral funding bodies, supporting UNESCO's role as a hub for sustainable development ideas. Project management support includes coordinating activity planning, ensuring collaborative implementation with stakeholders, organizing field monitoring and evaluation missions, and preparing reports. Maintaining strong working relationships with partners and ensuring project visibility through effective communication are also essential.

Work Experience

A minimum of two years of relevant professional experience is preferred, specifically in environmental engineering, ecology, biodiversity, or natural resources management. Desirable experience includes involvement in projects or activities related to ecological science education, training, or research on ecosystems and biodiversity conservation, water management, vulnerability analysis, adaptation, and resilience in the context of climate change.

Skills

Demonstrated skills in Communication, Accountability, and Innovation are essential. The role requires strong abilities in Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement, alongside effective Planning and Organizing. A focus on achieving Results and excellent Teamwork capabilities are also critical for success in this position.

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