Consultant for Climate Science and Transparency Programme

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), specifically under the Global Climate Action Unit. UNEP was established in 1972 and has since been a leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. UNEP operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and to provide leadership and encourage partnership in caring for the environment. The organization employs thousands of staff and collaborates with various stakeholders including governments, NGOs, and the private sector to address pressing environmental issues.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in developing analyses of existing data sets related to national greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories and third-party measurement initiatives (TPMIs). The primary expectation from this position is to assess the scientific vacuums and methodological challenges that countries face in meeting their reporting commitments to the UNFCCC. The consultant will explore how TPMIs can enhance the accuracy and trustworthiness of national GHG inventories by addressing methodological comparisons and governance issues. The work will involve producing a technical report that aims to bridge the gap between national GHG inventories and TPMIs, ultimately contributing to improved transparency and accountability in climate reporting. The consultant will also support the management of the Climate Science and Transparency Programme Coordination Project (CS&T PCP) by ensuring efficient operation and coordination of the program's activities, facilitating stakeholder engagement, and providing technical support to enhance data accuracy and transparency.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive analysis of the alignment and divergence between national GHG inventories and TPMIs. This includes producing comparative mappings of methodologies, emission factors, and sectoral coverage, as well as identifying institutional and operational barriers to integrating third-party data into national systems. The consultant will also evaluate opportunities for using TPMIs to enhance data accessibility and public trust, propose governance models for integrating TPMIs into national inventory processes, and provide actionable recommendations to policymakers. Specific tasks include conducting a global review of relevant TPMIs, analyzing selected country case studies, investigating institutional challenges, and proposing options for institutional frameworks that promote cooperation between national inventory systems and third-party initiatives. The consultant will also be involved in data management, communication, logistical support, financial administration, and reporting documentation.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced degree in environmental engineering, data science, statistics, or a related field. Proficiency in advanced data processing methods and knowledge of IPCC methodologies and UNFCCC tools is essential. Strong experience in UNFCCC reporting, particularly in the development of national GHG inventories and tracking of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), is required. The consultant should possess knowledge of cutting-edge climate science and methodologies for carbon accounting, as well as experience in ensuring transparency and accuracy in climate-related information.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold an advanced degree in a relevant field such as environmental engineering, data science, statistics, or similar disciplines. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of climate data analysis and reporting methodologies.

Experience:
The consultant should have significant experience in UNFCCC reporting processes, particularly in developing national GHG inventories and tracking NDCs. Experience in data collection, analysis, and reporting is essential, along with a strong understanding of the challenges and methodologies associated with climate data transparency and accuracy.

Languages:
English is the mandatory working language of the UN. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required for this position.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to be full-time and home-based, with international travel required for the role. The position does not specify a deadline for applications, and it is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.