UNEP Consultant - Edible Orchid Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UN Environment) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda. Established to promote the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, UN Environment serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. The organization plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to environmental challenges and fostering international cooperation. It operates in multiple countries and engages with various stakeholders to address pressing environmental issues.

Job Overview:
The position of Edible Orchid Specialist involves working with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which is an international agreement aimed at ensuring that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. The specialist will focus on compiling information and developing identification materials for key edible tuberous orchid species from southern Africa that are used in international trade for chikanda production. This role is essential for assisting CITES Parties in implementing and enforcing regulations related to the international trade of these species, particularly those within the genera Disa, Habenaria, and Satyrium. The work is expected to contribute to the implementation of specific decisions made by CITES Parties regarding edible tuberous orchids, thereby enhancing awareness and understanding of these species in trade.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Edible Orchid Specialist will undertake several key tasks, including:

• Producing comprehensive information on tuberous orchids used for chikanda that are found in international trade. This information will be utilized by the CITES Secretariat to create awareness-raising materials, which will include images of orchid tubers in various forms to help Parties distinguish them from other commodities.
• Preparing identification materials for key species in international trade within the genera Disa, Habenaria, and Satyrium, specifically those used for chikanda production. This will involve identifying key species based on a review of the edible orchid trade, analysis of CITES trade data, and expert consultations. The specialist will also draft identification materials for these species for consideration by the Secretariat.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in natural sciences (botany), natural resources management, environmental sciences, forestry, agroforestry, or related fields. 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 a strong background in relevant scientific disciplines and demonstrate a commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable practices.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include an advanced university degree in fields related to natural sciences, such as botany, environmental sciences, or natural resources management. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of the species involved and the ecological implications of their trade. A first-level university degree may be considered if accompanied by sufficient relevant experience.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of relevant experience in natural sciences, particularly in botany, natural resources management, environmental sciences, forestry, or agroforestry, is required. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in botanical research and identification, specifically concerning tuberous orchids. Additionally, experience in contributing to or supporting initiatives related to tuberous orchids in Southern Africa is essential for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this consultancy position, as it is one of the working languages of the CITES Secretariat. A working knowledge of Spanish and/or French is desirable, as these languages are also used within the Secretariat. Proficiency in multiple languages can enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders involved in the CITES processes.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and is expected to last for a duration of 10 days over a period of 3 months. 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. This ensures that the recruitment process is accessible and equitable for all candidates.