Methane Scientist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the world's foremost authority on environmental issues, established to provide leadership and foster partnerships that promote sustainable development. UNEP aims to inspire and empower nations and communities to enhance their quality of life while safeguarding the needs of future generations. It operates globally, engaging with various stakeholders to address pressing environmental challenges.

Job Overview:
The Methane Scientist position at UNEP's International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO) involves significant responsibilities in the characterization of methane emissions. The consultant will be tasked with collecting and analyzing field measurement data from various emission sources, particularly focusing on oil, gas, and waste-related emissions. This role is crucial for improving the understanding of methane emissions and will involve leading and publishing studies based on both in-house and publicly available data. The consultant will work closely with IMEO's science team, especially on measurement campaigns, and will report directly to the Methane Science Studies Manager. The position is designed to enhance the scientific output of IMEO, contributing to the creation of a global public dataset of empirically verified methane emissions, which is essential for catalyzing reductions in human-made methane emissions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Methane Scientist will have a comprehensive set of duties, including:

• Leading the characterization of methane emissions by collecting and analyzing field measurement data from various emission sources.
• Coordinating major science studies in the field and ensuring the scientific integrity of the data collected.
• Designing, planning, and executing methane measurement campaigns, providing technical direction and oversight.
• Performing advanced analysis and interpretation of measurement data sets, including emission flux model analyses.
• Preparing and writing scientific papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals, acting as the lead author on key manuscripts.
• Organizing and analyzing activity data from the industry for the interpretation of measurement data.
• Contributing to data collection in the field by participating in IMEO-funded campaigns.
• Reviewing new project proposals for the waste sector and supporting IMEO’s strategy through data analysis and interpretation.
• Providing expert scientific input and technical guidance to other IMEO methane emissions project efforts as needed. 1
• Representing IMEO as a subject matter expert at major international conferences and internal committees, presenting scientific and policy-relevant findings. 1
• Overseeing the curation and delivery of finalized, publication-ready data sets from measurement campaigns for both internal and public use.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate must possess a PhD in atmospheric science, geology, or a related field. They should have experience in leading the coordination of science field campaigns and performing rigorous analysis under tight deadlines. Expertise in a programming language for the analysis of large data sets is essential, along with strong proficiency in quantitative analysis and knowledge of atmospheric sampling in a field environment. Familiarity with the inventories and atmospheric models currently used for emissions estimates is also required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a PhD in a relevant field such as atmospheric science, geology, or a closely related discipline. This advanced educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of methane emissions and the scientific methodologies required for effective analysis and reporting.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in leading science field campaigns, with a proven track record of performing rigorous analyses under short deadlines. Candidates should demonstrate expertise in handling large data sets and possess a strong background in quantitative analysis, particularly in the context of atmospheric science and emissions measurement.

Languages:
While specific language requirements are not detailed in the job posting, proficiency in English is typically expected for roles within international organizations like UNEP. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not explicitly stated as mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The consultant role is expected to last for 211 days over a 12-month period, starting from December 1, 2025, through November 30, 202

• The position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work location. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process.