Psychologist

Job Posting Organization:
The Independent Institution on Missing Persons in the Syrian Arab Republic (IIMP) was established by the General Assembly in its resolution 77/301, adopted on 29 June 202

• The organization focuses on addressing the issue of missing persons in Syria, providing support to victims and their families, and ensuring that their rights are upheld. The IIMP operates with a commitment to human rights and aims to implement effective policies and frameworks that are sensitive to the needs of those affected by conflict. The organization is relatively new, having been established in 2023, and is likely to be expanding its operations and workforce as it develops its programs and initiatives. The IIMP is dedicated to working in various locations relevant to its mission, which may include Syria and other countries affected by similar issues.

Job Overview:
The Psychologist position is crucial for the development and implementation of Mental Health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) policies and frameworks within the IIMP. The incumbent will be responsible for ensuring that all interventions for missing persons are victim-sensitive and trauma-informed. This role involves drafting and refining MHPSS policies, developing specialized protocols for trauma-informed interviewing and suicide-risk assessment, and ensuring adherence to ethical and evidence-based practices. The Psychologist will also conduct research and analysis on psychosocial issues affecting victims and their families, assess their wellbeing, and contribute to capacity-building efforts in the country of assignment. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying gaps in existing practices and recommending improvements to enhance mental health and psychosocial support interventions. The incumbent will report to the Human Rights Officer or their designee and may be required to relocate to different duty stations as needed.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Psychologist will have a range of responsibilities, including but not limited to: supporting the development and implementation of MHPSS policies; drafting and refining MHPSS policy documents; developing specialized protocols on trauma-informed care; ensuring adherence to ethical practices; contributing to training content for staff and partners; conducting research on psychosocial issues; collecting and analyzing data related to victims and their families; directing capacity-building efforts in mental health support; reviewing existing practices and recommending improvements; and performing other duties as required. The role demands a comprehensive understanding of the psychological needs of individuals affected by human rights abuses and the ability to implement effective support strategies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of psychology, trauma-informed care, and MHPSS guidelines. They should demonstrate skills in providing trauma-informed support to individuals affected by human rights abuses, particularly in cases involving missing persons. The ability to assess psychosocial needs, develop MHPSS protocols, and analyze data for planning and decision-making is essential. Candidates should also exhibit professionalism, efficiency in meeting commitments, and a commitment to gender perspectives in their work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Psychiatry, Counseling, or a related field is required for this position. Alternatively, a first-level university degree in one of these fields, combined with at least two additional years of relevant professional experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background ensures that candidates have the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to perform effectively in the role.

Experience:
A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Psychiatry, Counseling, or a related field is required. Candidates must have experience providing mental health and psychosocial support to survivors of conflict-related trauma and human rights violations, as well as to families of missing persons. Experience in delivering MHPSS-related training and capacity-building for multidisciplinary teams is considered desirable, as it indicates the candidate's ability to contribute to the development of others in the field.

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in English and Arabic is required, as these are essential for effective communication within the organization and with clients. French is also a working language of the United Nations Secretariat, and while it is not mandatory for this position, knowledge of French may be considered an asset. Candidates should be able to demonstrate their language skills according to the UN Language Framework, ensuring they can communicate clearly and effectively in both written and spoken forms.

Additional Notes:
The position may involve relocation to Damascus, Syria, or other relevant locations as determined by the organization's operations. Candidates should be prepared for such reassignment in accordance with UN regulations and rules. The role is likely to be full-time, and while specific details regarding contract duration and compensation are not provided, candidates can expect to receive benefits typical of UN positions, including support for professional development and training opportunities.