Disaster Risk Reduction Research and Knowledge Management Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) was established in December 1999 and serves as the designated focal point within the United Nations system for coordinating efforts to reduce disasters. The organization aims to ensure synergies among disaster reduction activities across the United Nations and regional organizations, operating in both developed and less developed countries. UNDRR is led by the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction (SRSG) and has a workforce of over 160 staff members located in its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, as well as in various regional offices. The organization is committed to guiding, monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, while also supporting regional and national efforts to catalyze action and raise global awareness about disaster risk reduction. UNDRR collaborates with UN Member States and a diverse range of partners, including civil society, the private sector, parliamentarians, and the scientific community to achieve its mission.

Job Overview:
The Disaster Risk Reduction Research and Knowledge Management Consultant position is a consultancy role within the UNDRR, specifically within the Regional Office for Arab States (ROAS). The consultant will report directly to the Deputy Chief of Office and will be responsible for supporting the development of analytical products and knowledge outputs related to disaster risk reduction (DRR), resilience, climate action, and sustainable development in the Arab region. The consultant's work will involve conducting comprehensive research and analysis, compiling and synthesizing data from various sources, and preparing high-quality documentation that supports the implementation of the Sendai Framework and its linkages with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The consultant will also play a crucial role in supporting regional assessments and knowledge management efforts, ensuring that the outputs are aligned with organizational standards and contribute to evidence-based decision-making in disaster risk reduction.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of tasks under the direct supervision of the Regional Office and in close coordination with relevant technical teams. Key responsibilities include: conducting desk reviews and literature research on disaster risk reduction, resilience, climate adaptation, risk governance, and related areas; compiling and synthesizing data, reports, and technical documentation; supporting analytical work related to the Sendai Framework and its linkages with the SDGs; preparing background papers, briefing notes, and analytical summaries; assisting in the preparation and drafting of the Regional Assessment Report, including data collection and analysis; contributing to the design and implementation of surveys; supporting the development and maintenance of knowledge products and databases; identifying and documenting good practices and lessons learned; developing presentations and meeting materials; undertaking technical and editorial reviews of publications; and ensuring quality assurance of reports and communication materials. The expected deliverables include research papers, analytical summaries, contributions to the Regional Assessment Report, and various knowledge products prepared in accordance with agreed timelines.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in disaster risk reduction, public policy, international development, economics, environmental studies, climate change, geography, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, candidates should have at least 5 years of work experience in research and analytical roles related to disaster risk reduction, resilience, climate change, or sustainable development. Experience in national policy development concerning disaster risk reduction or climate change adaptation is also required. Desirable qualifications include experience in research and analysis, academic writing, and integrating gender, disability, and human mobility considerations into disaster risk reduction frameworks.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as disaster risk reduction, public policy, international development, economics, environmental studies, climate change, geography, or a related area. Candidates with a first-level university degree may be considered if they have additional qualifying experience that compensates for the lack of an advanced degree.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in research and analytical roles focused on disaster risk reduction, resilience, climate change, or sustainable development. Candidates should have a proven track record of contributing to policy development and possess strong analytical skills. Experience in academic writing and research methodologies is also desirable, as is familiarity with integrating considerations of gender, disability, and human mobility into disaster risk reduction initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written Arabic and English is required for this position, as these are the primary working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another official UN language, such as French, is considered desirable, as it may enhance communication and collaboration within the organization.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is home-based and is expected to last from August 15, 2026, to January 14, 202

• Candidates should be aware that due to the high volume of applications received, only successful candidates will be contacted. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training, and does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.