Climate Change research Needs in Lebanon
Organizational Context
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN's lead agency for international development, working in 170 countries to eradicate poverty and reduce inequality. UNDP focuses on sustainable development, democratic governance, peacebuilding, and climate and disaster resilience. Its mandate includes ending poverty, strengthening inclusive institutions, and advocating for change to help people build better lives, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals.
Job Purpose
This assignment aims to review Lebanon's key climate change documents to identify priority research gaps and practical research questions related to climate change adaptation, vulnerability, and risks. The volunteer will analyze national plans (NAP, NDC, etc.) and assessments to pinpoint data, knowledge, and methodological limitations. The findings will be translated into clear, policy-relevant research questions suitable for academic institutions, contributing to a comprehensive catalogue of climate research needs for Lebanon and supporting improved adaptation planning and implementation.
Responsibilities
The Online Volunteer will conduct a comprehensive review of key national climate change documents in Lebanon, including the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), National Communications, and Biennial Transparency Reports. The volunteer will identify critical data gaps, knowledge deficits, scientific and methodological limitations, and modelling needs related to climate adaptation and risk. These identified gaps will be translated into practical, policy-relevant research questions. The volunteer will organize these research needs and questions by relevant sectors (e.g., water, agriculture, health, ecosystems, cities, infrastructure, disaster risk reduction) and cross-cutting themes. Finally, the volunteer will prioritize research needs based on their relevance to national climate policy and their potential to enhance adaptation planning and implementation, presenting findings in a structured matrix and a summary note.
Work Experience
While specific years of experience are not detailed, the role requires a background in environmental studies, climate change, sustainability, or related fields, evidenced by a Bachelor's degree. Familiarity with Climate Change Policy, Climate Strategy, and Environmental Assessment is essential for this research-oriented assignment.
Skills
Required skills include a strong understanding of climate change policy, strategy, and environmental assessment. The ability to review complex documents, identify gaps, and formulate clear, practical research questions is crucial. Fluency in English is mandatory, with basic proficiency in Arabic and French being desirable.