Consultant for Development of Online Course on Earth Observation for Sustainable Development

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations, addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. The UN operates in various sectors, including humanitarian aid, development, and human rights, with a workforce of over 44,000 employees worldwide. The UN-SPIDER (United Nations Platform for Space-based Information for Disaster Management and Emergency Response) is a program that focuses on the use of space-based information to support disaster management and sustainable development, collaborating with various academic and research institutions globally.

Job Overview:
The consultant will be responsible for developing an online course that focuses on the utilization of Chinese Earth observation satellites for sustainable development. This role involves a comprehensive review of existing materials, course design, and the creation of educational content that aligns with the learning objectives. The consultant will work closely with experts from Wuhan University and UNU-INWEH, ensuring that the course is structured effectively to meet the needs of the target audience. The course will cover various modules, including an introduction to Chinese Earth observation satellites, data analysis techniques, and practical applications related to sustainable development goals (SDGs). The consultant will also be tasked with creating engaging learning materials, including PowerPoint presentations, video scripts, quizzes, and self-assessment activities, all while adhering to the branding guidelines of UNOOSA/UN-SPIDER.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Inception and review: Review existing documentation and materials provided by UN-SPIDER, Wuhan University, and UNU-INWEH, including technical notes, training resources, case studies, and relevant publications. Confirm the final course structure and learning outcomes for the four modules.
• Course design: Develop a course design note outlining the target audience, learning objectives, and recommended learning journey over 4-6 weeks, integrating case studies and assessments.
• Development of learning materials: Create PowerPoint slide decks for each module, ensuring clarity, conciseness, and adherence to branding guidelines.
• Development of video scripts: Prepare scripts for pre-recorded video lectures and demonstrations, specifying narrative text, visuals, and sequence of actions.
• Development of quizzes: Design module-wise quizzes to assess comprehension and provide answer keys and mini-project guidelines.
• Finalization and handover: Revise materials based on feedback and submit final versions organized for integration into the learning platform.

Required Qualifications:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in remote sensing, geoinformation science, geography, environmental science, disaster risk management, instructional design, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree in similar fields combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. At least ten years of progressively responsible professional experience in designing and developing learning materials or applying Earth observation/remote sensing to sustainable development is required. Demonstrated experience in preparing training content, video scripts, and quizzes for technical subjects is essential, along with proficiency in using EO data and standard tools such as QGIS and SNAP. Knowledge of Chinese EO satellite missions and data platforms is also required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as remote sensing, geoinformation science, geography, environmental science, disaster risk management, or instructional design. Alternatively, a first-level university degree in similar fields combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
The position requires at least ten years of progressively responsible professional experience in the relevant fields. Candidates should have substantial experience in designing and developing educational materials, particularly in the context of Earth observation and sustainable development. Experience with the United Nations or other international organizations is desirable, as is familiarity with Chinese Earth observation satellite missions and data platforms.

Languages:
Fluency in English (both oral and written) is required for this position, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another United Nations language is advantageous, and knowledge of Chinese is considered desirable.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of the consultancy is from December 15, 2025, to December 31, 202

• The position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work location. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are not required to provide any financial information.