Programme Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organization established within the United Nations System. Its mission is to engage in policy-relevant research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination to further the purposes and principles of the United Nations. Over the past fifty years, UNU has been a vital source of impartial research focused on sustainability, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">human security, and economic development. With hundreds of researchers operating across 12 countries, UNU's expertise encompasses the full spectrum of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, generating knowledge that informs policy and drives positive global change. The organization collaborates closely with other UN entities and leading research institutions worldwide, emphasizing its commitment to addressing pressing global challenges.

Job Overview:
The Programme Coordinator for the UNU-Biotechnology Programme for Latin America and the Caribbean (UNU-BIOLAC) is a pivotal role that involves overseeing the organization and management of UNU-BIOLAC and its various programs. This position requires a dynamic individual capable of leading a diverse team of experts, fostering partnerships with think tanks, universities, the private sector, and other UN entities. The Programme Coordinator will be responsible for implementing a capacity-building program that administers grants to professionals in biotechnology, thereby enhancing skills and knowledge in the region. The role also includes managing the budget, ensuring compliance with donor reporting requirements, and representing UNU-BIOLAC in local and global forums to enhance its visibility and impact. The successful candidate will be expected to produce high-quality, policy-relevant analyses and facilitate critical dialogues that support capacity strengthening, particularly in the Global South.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Leadership and Strategic Management: Manage the implementation of UNU-BIOLAC's capacity-building program, oversee the direction and administration of the program, manage personnel, promote diversity and inclusion, and handle the program’s budget.
• Resource Mobilization: Strengthen the resource mobilization strategy to secure funding and manage donor relations.
• Represent UNU-BIOLAC: Establish and maintain relationships with various stakeholders, including the UN system, governments, and academic institutions, to foster collaboration and resource mobilization.
• Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration: Facilitate the dissemination of knowledge products, coordinate work programs with other UN activities, and support research that promotes the ethical use of biotechnology.
• Perform additional duties as requested by the Rector.

Required Qualifications:
1) Education and Certification: An advanced university degree in a scientific discipline related to biotechnology is required, with a Ph.D. strongly preferred. 2) Required Skills and Experience: At least seven years of progressively responsible experience in biotechnology or a related field, with demonstrated leadership and management abilities. A background in research and publications in biotechnology is preferred, along with experience in financial and human resource management. Strong fundraising skills and the ability to engage with diverse cultural backgrounds are essential. 3) Language Requirements: Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English and Spanish are required, with knowledge of another UN official language considered an asset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in a scientific discipline related to biotechnology. A Ph.D. is strongly preferred, indicating a high level of expertise and commitment to the field.

Experience:
The position requires at least seven years of progressively responsible experience in biotechnology or a related discipline. This experience should demonstrate leadership and management capabilities, as well as a strong background in research and publications relevant to biotechnology.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish is mandatory, with excellent verbal and written communication skills in both languages. Knowledge of another UN official working language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
The successful candidate will be employed under a Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) contract at 60% full-time equivalent (FTE). The compensation package includes an annual net salary ranging from USD 3,377.80 to USD 4,203.45, depending on experience and qualifications. Benefits include annual leave and health insurance according to UNU regulations. The initial contract duration is two years, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and organizational needs. The mandatory retirement age for PSA holders is 65 years. Applications are encouraged from suitably qualified women candidates, and UNU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce.