International Consultant - WDR Drug Demand and Health Consequences

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is a global leader in addressing issues related to drugs, crime, and terrorism. Established in 1997, UNODC operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to promoting justice, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and health. The organization aims to assist member states in their efforts to combat drug trafficking, organized crime, and corruption, while also promoting health and human rights. UNODC's mission is to contribute to global peace and security by fostering international cooperation and providing evidence-based solutions to complex challenges.

Job Overview:
The International Consultant will play a crucial role in the preparation of the World Drug Report (WDR) 2027, focusing specifically on drug demand and health consequences. This position involves conducting a comprehensive review of existing literature, both scientific and grey, to inform the development of the report. The consultant will be responsible for analyzing data from various sources, including international and national institutions, to produce estimates and highlights related to drug demand and health consequences. The consultant will work closely with the Chief of the Research and Knowledge Production Section and the Statistician on drugs, ensuring that the outputs meet the high standards expected by UNODC. The consultancy is home-based, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements while still requiring a commitment to producing high-quality analyses and reports.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties will include: conducting a thorough literature review of scientific and grey literature; developing outlines for the online segment and highlights of the WDR; producing datasets on drug demand and health consequences; analyzing available data to generate global, regional, and national estimates; drafting analyses and key messages for the report; addressing feedback on drafts and finalizing outputs; producing methodological materials for the WDR; and contributing to special points of interest within the report. The consultant will be expected to deliver comprehensive and insightful analyses that reflect current trends and developments in drug use and its health implications.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in public health, epidemiology, sociology, or a closely related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted. A minimum of five years of experience in public health, epidemiology, or sociology is required, with a proven track record of scientific publications or contributions to published reports. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills, particularly in quantitative methods, and have experience managing datasets and using statistical software. Excellent planning, organizational, research, writing, and communication skills are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in public health, epidemiology, sociology, or a closely related field. In cases where candidates hold a first-level university degree, they must also have two additional years of qualifying experience in a relevant field to be considered equivalent to the advanced degree.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant experience in public health, epidemiology, sociology, or a related field. This experience should include a strong background in analytical work, particularly in drug use epidemiology or public health, and a history of producing scientific publications or contributing to reports. Experience in managing datasets and utilizing statistical software is also required, along with demonstrated skills in planning and organization.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of French, another official language of the United Nations, is considered an advantage and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is home-based, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements. The expected duration of the consultancy is from November 26, 2026, to June 30, 202

• It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. The organization is committed to ensuring a fair and transparent recruitment process.