Wildlife Data Analysis Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UN Environment) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. Established in 1972, UN Environment serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment, working with 193 member states and numerous partners to address pressing environmental issues. The organization employs thousands of individuals across various countries, focusing on a wide range of environmental challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and sustainable development. The CITES Secretariat, which is administered by UN Environment, is located in Geneva and oversees the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), an international agreement aimed at ensuring that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. The CITES Secretariat plays a crucial role in monitoring and regulating the trade of endangered species, working closely with member states to implement conservation measures and promote sustainable practices.

Job Overview:
The Wildlife Data Analysis Specialist position is a consultancy role focused on assessing the feasibility of applying data collection and reporting protocols to monitor the illegal killing of other CITES listed species. The consultant will work under the overall supervision of the Chief of the Outreach and Projects Unit and in close consultation with the MIKE Programme Coordinator. The primary objective of this role is to review existing elephant data collection methodologies and explore the potential for adapting these methods to monitor other endangered species, such as African lions, rhinoceroses, and giraffes. The consultant will conduct a comprehensive desk study, engage with relevant stakeholders, and prepare a detailed feasibility study report that outlines findings, proposed protocols, and recommendations for pilot testing. The position requires strong analytical skills, experience in wildlife monitoring, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders to enhance conservation efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct a feasibility study to adapt and expand mortality data collection and analysis to other CITES listed species, including: a. Performing a desk study on existing data collection methodologies for monitoring illegal killings of species like African lions, rhinoceroses, and giraffes. b. Consulting with range States, national wildlife authorities, and experts to evaluate the applicability of data collection protocols for the identified species. c. Identifying at least two target species and conservation areas for pilot testing of expanded data collection efforts. d. Developing data collection forms, protocols, and training materials based on existing resources. e. Testing options for data analysis, considering MIKE data analysis methodologies.
• Prepare a detailed feasibility study report that includes findings, an executive summary, proposed protocols, and recommendations.
• Facilitate a two-day regional workshop to present the feasibility study report, incorporate feedback, and develop an implementation plan for pilot testing.
• Perform other related duties as required, ensuring effective communication and collaboration with stakeholders throughout the project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in wildlife ecology, statistics, environmental science, or related fields. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. A minimum of seven years of relevant work experience is required, including at least five years in wildlife monitoring and biodiversity conservation, as well as experience in data analytics and statistical modeling. Familiarity with MIKE data collection systems and experience in using data analytics for wildlife conservation in developing countries are essential. Candidates should also demonstrate proficiency in various data analysis software and methodologies, including Bayesian statistical modeling, and have experience preparing peer-reviewed studies and reports. Strong computer literacy, including proficiency in MS Office applications, is required, along with the ability to work effectively in a multicultural team environment.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in wildlife ecology, statistics, environmental statistics, environmental science, or related fields is required for this position. A first-level university degree may be accepted in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience. The educational background should provide a strong foundation in ecological principles, statistical analysis, and environmental science relevant to wildlife conservation and monitoring.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of seven years of relevant work experience, with at least five years specifically in wildlife monitoring and biodiversity conservation. This experience should include a strong focus on data analytics, statistical modeling, and their applications to conservation and development issues. Additionally, candidates should have at least four years of experience using data analytics to address wildlife conservation and protected area management challenges in developing countries. Experience with international organizations is considered an advantage, and candidates should demonstrate the ability to work effectively in challenging environments and under tight deadlines.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the CITES Secretariat. A working knowledge of French is desirable, as it may facilitate communication with stakeholders in French-speaking regions. Proficiency in Spanish is also beneficial, given the multilingual nature of the organization and its global reach.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is home-based, with regular communication and reporting conducted through virtual means such as email and MS Teams. The expected duration of the consultancy is approximately five months. The consultant will report to the Chief of the CITES Outreach and Projects Unit and may be required to travel to Nairobi to facilitate the regional workshop. All travel costs will be covered by the CITES MIKE Programme in accordance with UN rules and procedures. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and equitable hiring process.