Consultant

Organizational Context

The UNESCO Regional Office for Eastern Africa (ROEA) is actively engaged in groundwater initiatives across Africa and Small Island Developing States. These projects focus on enhancing groundwater assessment, sustainable management, climate resilience, and drought preparedness. Advanced hydrogeological modelling is crucial for understanding groundwater systems, supporting resource planning, and informing evidence-based governance. UNESCO seeks a Senior International Hydrogeological Modelling Specialist to provide technical expertise and leadership across these vital groundwater initiatives.

Job Purpose

The primary purpose of this consultancy is to provide high-level technical leadership and specialized expertise in hydrogeological modelling for UNESCO's groundwater initiatives. This role is essential for strengthening groundwater assessment, sustainable management, climate resilience, and drought preparedness across Africa and Small Island Developing States. The consultant will develop and apply innovative groundwater modelling tools and decision-support systems to improve understanding of groundwater systems, support resource planning, and assess the impacts of climate variability and change. The work will enhance the scientific basis for groundwater governance, contributing to evidence-based decision-making and the robust management of this critical freshwater resource.

Responsibilities

Lead the development, refinement, and application of conceptual and numerical groundwater models to support groundwater assessment, sustainable management, and climate resilience within UNESCO's initiatives. Develop and implement groundwater forecasting tools and climate change scenario analyses to evaluate groundwater system responses under various conditions, aiding drought preparedness and early warning systems. Provide high-level technical expertise and strategic scientific guidance in hydrogeological modelling across multiple UNESCO groundwater projects. Collaborate closely with UNESCO Headquarters, project partners, and national counterparts to ensure the successful execution of assignments. Prepare detailed work plans, including methodology, schedules, and expected technical outputs for specific projects. Ensure the integration of hydrogeological, hydroclimatic, remote sensing, and monitoring datasets into modelling workflows. Conduct research on climate change and drought impacts on groundwater systems, and provide technical advisory services on modelling methodologies.

Work Experience

A minimum of 15 years of progressively responsible professional experience in groundwater studies and hydrogeological modelling is required. This extensive experience ensures a deep understanding of the field and the ability to lead complex projects.

Skills

Demonstrated expertise in developing and applying conceptual and numerical groundwater models. Proven ability to integrate hydrogeological and hydroclimatic data into modelling workflows. Research experience concerning climate change and drought impacts on groundwater systems. Excellent command of English (written and spoken) is essential.

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