International Consultant
Organizational Context
The UNESCO Office in Phnom Penh is implementing a project in Cambodia (2024-2028) to support the preservation of archives and sites linked to the Khmer Rouge regime. This initiative focuses on capacity building for site conservation and the development of a manual for managing human remains and artefacts. The project aligns with World Heritage Committee recommendations for memorial sites inscribed on the World Heritage List, aiming to improve conservation standards and management practices.
Job Purpose
This consultancy aims to develop a practical Conservation and Management Manual for Cambodian Memorial Sites, providing theoretical and operational guidance for handling, documenting, conserving, and storing human remains and artefacts. The manual will be accessible, concise, and adapted to site managers' operational realities. Additionally, the assignment will strengthen institutional capacities through training workshops, enabling site managers and staff to apply the manual in their daily conservation activities. This contributes directly to the project's objective of enhancing the preservation and sustainable management of these significant historical materials.
Responsibilities
Under the direct supervision of the Culture Programme Specialist, the international expert will develop a comprehensive Conservation and Management Manual for Cambodian memorial sites. This manual will cover international best practices, ethical principles for treating human remains and artefacts, documentation procedures, field recovery, preventive conservation, storage management, and risk monitoring. It will include templates for site managers and recommendations for long-term planning. The expert will undertake two field missions to Cambodia for fact-finding, consultations, and site visits. Furthermore, the consultant will design and deliver two capacity-building workshops for approximately 20-30 participants each, focusing on the practical application of the manual and preventive conservation techniques. Training materials will also be developed for ongoing staff training.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience in heritage conservation or museum collection management is required. Demonstrated experience working with human remains and/or sensitive heritage materials, supported by peer-reviewed publications, is essential. Experience in developing conservation manuals or technical guidelines is also necessary.
Skills
Required skills include strong analytical and research abilities to synthesize complex information into practical recommendations. Excellent writing and drafting skills are crucial for developing the manual and training materials. Strong stakeholder engagement, coordination, and facilitation skills are necessary for effective collaboration and training delivery. The ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines is also essential.