Textile Research Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) is the designated entity within the United Nations system that addresses environmental issues at both global and regional levels. Established to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus, UNEP plays a crucial role in keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. UNEP's Industry and Economy Division collaborates with international governments, non-governmental organizations, and various sectors to develop and implement policies and practices that promote cleaner and safer environments, incorporate environmental costs, and utilize natural resources efficiently. The organization is dedicated to reducing pollution and risks to human health and the environment while enabling the implementation of international agreements. The Textiles Unit, part of the Industry Innovation Branch, leads the UNEP Textile Initiative, which aims to foster sector-wide collaboration and accelerate a just transition towards a sustainable and circular textile value chain. UNEP's work includes supporting governments through Global Textile Policy Dialogues and assisting SMEs in developing countries to adopt circular business models, eliminate hazardous chemicals, and address overproduction and overconsumption in the fashion industry.

Job Overview:
The position of Textile Research Associate is integral to the UNEP Textiles Unit, focusing on supporting and conducting research tasks that inform the unit on various relevant topics. The consultant will play a key role in implementing initiatives aimed at addressing overproduction and overconsumption in the textile sector. This role requires a proactive approach to engage with strategic partners and stakeholders, facilitating discussions and collaborations that drive the UNEP Textile Initiative forward. The consultant will be responsible for conducting research, coordinating meetings, and providing substantive support for various projects and reports. The position is part-time, expected to last for 12 months, and will involve a commitment of 50% of the consultant's time. The consultant will also be involved in onboarding and managing interns, ensuring that the textiles unit's objectives are met effectively and efficiently.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Textile Research Associate will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: supporting the implementation of private sector convenings focused on overproduction and overconsumption, which involves conducting research, setting up meetings, drafting agendas, and preparing presentations and meeting minutes. The consultant will also support the Global Textile Policy Dialogues by organizing regular meetings and ad hoc events, identifying and inviting speakers, and ensuring effective engagement with private sector stakeholders. Conducting thorough research to inform UNEP's textile work across various topics is a critical aspect of this role. Additionally, the consultant will coordinate the curation and distribution of the UNEP Textile Initiative's monthly newsletter, make presentations on assigned topics at webinars and conferences, and provide technical inputs and reviews for documents and project proposals. The role also includes onboarding, training, and managing interns within the UNEP Textile Initiative, as well as supporting the monitoring and reporting of relevant projects.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in international relations or environmental policy, with a specific focus on sustainable fashion and textiles. A minimum of 2 years of experience in sustainability or a related role within the fashion or textile sector is required. Excellent writing and communication skills are essential, particularly the ability to convey complex technical information in a clear and engaging manner to a diverse audience. Experience in curating newsletters is also required, along with a demonstrated ability to engage with textile companies on sustainability initiatives. Additional qualifications include experience in research related to overproduction and overconsumption in textiles, prior involvement in international environmental contexts, and familiarity with the UN system, particularly UNEP. A strong network within the private sector of the textile industry is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree, specifically in fields related to international relations or environmental policy, with a concentration on sustainable fashion and textiles. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of environmental issues and the dynamics of the textile industry.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 2 years of relevant experience in sustainability or a related role within the fashion or textile sector. This experience should demonstrate a solid understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the industry, particularly in relation to sustainability practices and policies.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English is mandatory for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in French is also required, given its status as another working language. Knowledge of an additional official United Nations language would be considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is part-time, requiring a commitment of 50% of the consultant's time over a duration of 12 months. The recruitment process is conducted without any fees, as the United Nations does not charge applicants at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. The organization emphasizes its commitment to ethical recruitment practices and does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.