Consultant for WHO on Sea Level Rise, Health, and Justice

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With over 7,000 employees, WHO operates in more than 150 countries, working to combat health issues and improve health systems globally. The organization focuses on various health-related challenges, including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and health systems strengthening, and plays a crucial role in global health governance and policy-making.

Job Overview:
The consultancy position aims to support WHO's efforts in advancing the activities of the Commission on Sea Level Rise, Health, and Justice. The consultant will play a pivotal role in establishing operational structures and thematic working groups, preparing for the second meeting scheduled for 202

• The role is critical in addressing the urgent threats posed by sea level rise to health and ecosystems, particularly for vulnerable communities. The consultant will work closely with the ACE Director and technical units to ensure effective coordination and progress across various working groups, facilitating communication and collaboration among stakeholders. This position requires a deep understanding of the intersection between climate change and health, as well as the ability to synthesize complex information into actionable plans and strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key deliverables: 1) Establishing and coordinating five working groups, including defining their operational structure, expectations, timelines, and communication channels. This includes facilitating regular calls to ensure alignment with the Commission's vision and providing ongoing technical and editorial support. 2) Early planning for the second Commission Meeting, which involves drafting an initial outline for the concept note, including the agenda and narrative structure. 3) Reviewing progress on work strands, refining goals, and ensuring collaborative working patterns among the groups. This includes arranging calls with working groups and funders, developing a dynamic document for the Commission's framework, and providing strategic oversight for website content. The consultant will also be expected to offer technical support for additional tasks as requested by WHO.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in environmental health, ecology, natural science, political studies, or a related field. Essential qualifications include a minimum of 7 years of experience in interdisciplinary research on climate change and health at both national and international levels. Candidates should have experience convening international teams, leading scientific output, and delivering successful Lancet Commissions in health and climate change. Desirable qualifications include experience working with national organizations and high-level leadership in think tanks, health organizations, and UN agencies.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field such as environmental health, ecology, natural science, or political studies is essential for this position. This educational background provides the necessary foundation for understanding the complex interactions between climate change and health, which is critical for the consultancy role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience, particularly in the development of interdisciplinary research on climate change and health. Candidates should have a proven track record of leading and supporting international teams, as well as experience in delivering impactful research outputs. Experience with high-level leadership and collaboration with international organizations is also highly desirable.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position, encompassing reading, writing, and speaking skills. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is home-based, with a duration of 5.5 months, from February to July 202

• The remuneration is set at a pay band level B, ranging from USD 8,000 to 9,000 monthly. The consultant may be required to travel to the second Sea-Level Rise Meeting in Australia and other locations as needed. The WHO emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented Member States. Candidates should be prepared to provide proof of their educational qualifications and may be subject to a written test as part of the selection process. WHO maintains a smoke-free environment and has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse.