Consultant Senior Specialist in Climate Adaptation Research and Development

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. UNEP's mission is to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus by keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. The UNEP Latin America and the Caribbean Office (LACO), located in Panama City, works closely with the 33 countries of the region and integrates its activities into the Medium-Term Strategy and the Programme of Work approved by the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA). The office aims to implement the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the new Paris Agreement, and the priority actions defined in the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) and National Adaptation Plans (NAP) of the region. UNEP's Sub-programme on Climate Change aims to strengthen the ability of countries to move towards climate-resilient and low-emission strategies for sustainable development and human well-being, ensuring that adaptation approaches, including Nature-based Solutions, are integrated into key sectoral and national development strategies to reduce vulnerability and strengthen resilience to climate change impacts. In Panama, UNEP is focused on addressing significant risks posed by climate change to ecosystems, infrastructure, public health, water resources, and agricultural systems, requiring stronger national capacities for research, innovation, and evidence-based decision-making in climate change adaptation.

Job Overview:
The Consultant Senior Specialist in Climate Adaptation Research and Development will play a crucial role in developing a National Climate Change Adaptation Research and Development (R&D) Programme for Panama. This position involves conducting a comprehensive assessment of research needs and capacities, as well as creating a strategic framework to guide the generation, coordination, and application of knowledge, innovation, and technologies in support of climate change adaptation. The consultant will contribute to the effective implementation of the project by delivering several key outputs, including a diagnostic report on research and development, a proposal for the R&D programme, and validation and workshop reports. The consultant will work closely with the Ministry of the Environment and UNEP to coordinate and implement the project funded by the Green Climate Fund, specifically focusing on the development, validation, and finalization of the National Climate Adaptation R&D Programme as outlined in the funding proposal document. The position requires a strong understanding of climate change adaptation planning processes and the ability to engage with various stakeholders, including government institutions, academia, research centers, and civil society organizations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Consultant Senior Specialist will be responsible for a range of tasks, including:

• Conducting a comprehensive diagnosis of research needs, gaps, barriers, and opportunities related to climate change adaptation in Panama. This includes reviewing existing national and sectoral policies, collecting and analyzing data, mapping research institutions, and identifying existing capacities and gaps.
• Developing the National Climate Adaptation R&D Programme, which involves designing the overall structure, defining research priorities, and proposing implementation mechanisms.
• Organizing and facilitating validation workshops and public forums to engage stakeholders and gather feedback on the R&D Programme.
• Coordinating with national and international financing partners to promote the R&D Programme and secure financial support for its implementation.
• Preparing comprehensive reports and documentation summarizing findings, recommendations, and stakeholder inputs throughout the process.
• Ensuring that gender and inclusivity considerations are integrated into all aspects of the R&D Programme development and stakeholder engagement.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences, engineering, natural resources, climate change, law, international studies, development studies, social or political sciences, or a closely related field. A Master’s degree in climate change, adaptation planning, sustainable development, environmental management, economy, technology and innovation, or public policy from a recognized university is also required. Additionally, candidates should have at least seven years of relevant professional experience in climate change adaptation planning, research programme development, environmental management, or related fields, with demonstrated experience in designing and implementing research or innovation frameworks. Familiarity with the national science, technology, and innovation ecosystem in Panama, as well as experience working with government institutions and academic organizations, is desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as environmental sciences, engineering, or social sciences, along with a Master’s degree in a closely related area such as climate change, sustainable development, or public policy. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of climate adaptation and the development of effective research and development programmes.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of seven years of relevant professional experience in areas such as climate change adaptation planning, research programme development, and environmental management. Experience in institutional analysis, facilitating technology transfer processes, and working with government institutions or academic organizations is highly desirable. Familiarity with the national context of Panama and previous work with international organizations or the UN system would be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is required for this position, as it is essential for effective communication with local stakeholders and partners. Proficiency in English is desirable, as it may be necessary for engaging with international partners and accessing relevant literature and resources.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is home-based and is expected to last for a duration of five months. The consultant will work under the overall supervision of the Deputy Regional Director of UNEP's Latin America and the Caribbean Office and will collaborate closely with UNEP’s Adaptation team, the Directorate of Climate Change of the Ministry of Environment in Panama, and other relevant stakeholders. Travel may be required for consultation processes. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, and applicants should be aware that the organization does not concern itself with information on applicants’ bank accounts.