Online Volunteers for Biodiversity Conservation Proposal

Job Posting Organization:
Morobe Development Foundation Inc. (MDF) is a prominent NGO based in Lae, Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea. Established with the mission to empower young people and promote community development through creative arts such as dance, music, and drama, MDF aims to ensure equal participation of women in decision-making processes related to various projects, particularly those addressing violence against women and human rights. The organization collaborates with Online Volunteers through the UNV's Unified Volunteer Platform to conduct scientific research on environmental issues, including forest cover loss and biodiversity conservation. MDF is governed by a management committee that emphasizes gender equality in leadership and decision-making, ensuring that both male and female voices are represented. The foundation is committed to aligning its objectives with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on climate mitigation and adaptation initiatives that support the economic well-being of the local population while promoting environmental conservation.

Job Overview:
The role of Online Volunteers at MDF involves providing critical support in the preparation of documents and reports related to biodiversity and conservation projects. Volunteers will engage in reviewing, editing, and structuring proposals to ensure they meet the standards required for submission to donor agencies. This position is essential for enhancing the quality of proposals and ensuring that they are well-researched and effectively communicated. Volunteers will have the opportunity to work collaboratively with MDF staff, contributing to meaningful projects that aim to foster sustainable development and environmental conservation in Papua New Guinea. The tasks assigned will vary, allowing volunteers to choose between filling in reports with project materials or editing existing reports for clarity and accuracy. This role not only supports the foundation's objectives but also provides volunteers with valuable experience in proposal writing and editing within the context of international development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The selected Online Volunteers will be responsible for the following tasks:

• Review and edit an existing proposal on biodiversity conservation, collaborating closely with the designated contact person from MDF.
• Provide technical advice and recommendations to enhance the proposal before it is submitted to the donor agency.
• Conduct research to identify relevant keywords and arrange references in APA format using Mendeley software.
• Task 1: Two volunteers will utilize project materials to complete reports, ensuring that all necessary information is included.
• Task 2: Two volunteers will edit the report, which includes double-checking information, making editorial changes, checking grammar, and cleaning up formatting issues. Volunteers should indicate their preference for either Task 1 or Task 2 in their application.

Required Qualifications:
Volunteers should possess strong writing and editing skills, with a keen eye for detail. Experience in proposal writing, editing, or proofreading is highly desirable. Familiarity with biodiversity and conservation topics will be an advantage, as will experience using Mendeley or similar reference management software. Volunteers should be able to work independently and collaboratively, demonstrating effective communication skills and a commitment to the mission of MDF.

Educational Background:
While specific educational qualifications are not explicitly stated, a background in environmental science, conservation, international development, or related fields would be beneficial. Volunteers should have a solid understanding of academic writing standards and proposal formats, particularly in the context of NGO work.

Experience:
Experience in writing, editing, or proofreading is essential for this position. Previous involvement in similar projects or familiarity with biodiversity conservation issues will enhance a volunteer's ability to contribute effectively. The role is suitable for individuals who are proactive and can work with minimal supervision while also being able to collaborate with team members.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all documentation and communication will be conducted in this language. Additional language skills relevant to the local context may be considered an asset but are not required.

Additional Notes:
The position is voluntary and does not specify a contract duration, indicating that it may be flexible based on the needs of the organization and the availability of the volunteers. This role is part-time and remote, allowing volunteers from various locations to contribute to the important work of the Morobe Development Foundation. Compensation is not provided, but volunteers will gain valuable experience and contribute to meaningful projects that support sustainable development and environmental conservation.