Risk Assessment and Adaptation Planning Expert (Lead Author)

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Climate Change Committee (UNEPCCC). UNEP was established in 1972 and has a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. The organization operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to various environmental initiatives. UNEP focuses on addressing global environmental issues, including climate change, and aims to provide leadership and encourage partnerships in caring for the environment.

Job Overview:
The position of Risk Assessment and Adaptation Planning Expert (Lead Author) involves providing overall leadership and coordination for the development of comprehensive guidelines on implementing loss and damage strategies related to climate change. The role is particularly focused on practical steps that developing countries can take to address the impacts of climate change, which are increasingly leading to significant losses and damages. The UNEPCCC/UNEP aims to create guidelines that will assist these countries in effectively implementing loss and damage strategies, which will include detailed guidance on various key areas such as definitions, national frameworks, policy integration, access to international support, implementation, data monitoring, and funding strategies. The guidelines will also provide practical advice, case studies, and best practices that address both economic and non-economic impacts, emphasizing stakeholder engagement, cross-sectoral coordination, and the needs of vulnerable populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Risk Assessment and Adaptation Planning Expert (Lead Author) include leading the development of chapters focusing on comprehensive risk assessment, adaptation planning, and implementation strategies for developing countries. Specific tasks involve integrating inputs from other lead authors to finalize drafts for Chapter 3, which covers the key elements of a national loss and damage framework, and writing specific sections on comprehensive risk assessment and definitions and limitations in current adaptation strategies. The expert will also be responsible for drafting Chapter 5 on data collection and monitoring, as well as Chapter 3.4 on stakeholder engagement and capacity building. Additionally, the expert will provide case studies and contribute to compiling a short summary or policy brief of the guide with support from all lead authors. Performance indicators for this role include timely delivery of outputs, quality and comprehensiveness of content, methodological rigor, stakeholder engagement, clarity and usability of recommendations, innovation in approaches, alignment with international frameworks, technical accuracy, adaptability of recommendations, and overall impact on strengthening risk assessment and adaptation planning for loss and damage strategies in developing countries.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for this position include a Master's degree or equivalent in Climate Science, Environmental Policy, Climate Risk Assessment, or a related field. Candidates should have a minimum of 2-5 years of experience in climate change adaptation and loss and damage research. A strong background in both quantitative and qualitative risk assessment methodologies is essential, along with experience in developing country contexts and working with vulnerable populations.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as Climate Science, Environmental Policy, or Climate Risk Assessment. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of climate change and its impacts, as well as for developing effective strategies for adaptation and loss and damage management.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of 2-5 years of experience in the field of climate change adaptation and loss and damage research. This experience should ideally include work in developing country contexts, where the impacts of climate change are often most severe, and should demonstrate a strong understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.

Languages:
Excellent writing and editing skills in English are mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but English is the primary language required for effective communication and documentation.

Additional Notes:
The position is part-time and remote, allowing for flexibility in work hours and location. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. This ensures that the recruitment process is accessible and equitable for all candidates.