Oceans Data Scientist

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), which was established in 196

• UNCTAD's mission is to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy, with a focus on trade, investment, and sustainable development. The organization operates in over 190 countries and has a diverse workforce comprising thousands of employees dedicated to fostering economic growth and development globally.

Job Overview:
The position of Oceans scientist" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Data Scientist involves contributing to the enhancement of institutional and technical capacities of national statistical offices and relevant government agencies in Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The primary focus is on producing statistics and indicators related to maritime trade, particularly in Barbados and Belize. The consultant will guide and assist local experts in establishing a statistical production system for the regular compilation of data on seaborne trade, including imports and exports of goods delivered by sea, as well as marine fishing activities and their associated CO2 emissions. This role requires a strong understanding of statistical methodologies and the ability to work collaboratively with government teams to ensure accurate data collection and analysis.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties include:

• Guiding and assisting government agencies in Barbados and Belize in setting up a statistical production system for compiling data on seaborne trade, including imports and exports of goods delivered by sea. This involves collecting data on the value and volume of traded goods, transport work, average shipping time, transport costs, fuel consumption, and CO2 emissions from maritime transport.
• Compiling statistics on marine fishing output, the size of the fishing fleet, and CO2 emissions from fishing activities, categorized by fish species, fishing type (high-seas vs. coastal), vessel type, and other relevant characteristics.
• Participating remotely in national taskforce meetings focused on Greenhouse Gases (GHG) emission statistics for seaborne trade and marine fishing, incorporating insights and tools from the implementation phase into the Compilation Guidelines.
• Collaborating with local teams to ensure the effective use of statistical resources and methodologies for accurate data production.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's) in statistics, data science, or a related field. Additionally, at least three years of work experience in processing and geo-spatial analysis of environmental data is required. Experience in handling high-volume data related to international trade and vessel voyages, particularly from Automatic Identification System/Vessel Monitoring System (AIS/VMS), is essential. Familiarity with research related to the Vessel Monitoring System and Greenhouse Gases (IMO/GHG) Strategy is desirable, as is experience in capacity building for developing countries, especially in Caribbean/Small Island Developing States. Knowledge of environmental or energy systems is also beneficial.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's) in statistics, data science, or a related field is mandatory for this position. This educational background ensures that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to handle complex data analysis and statistical methodologies relevant to maritime trade and environmental data.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant work experience. This experience should include processing and geo-spatial analysis of environmental data, as well as handling high-volume data related to international trade and vessel voyages. Candidates with experience in research related to the Vessel Monitoring System and GHG emissions will be preferred, particularly if they have demonstrated this through published research papers or reports. Experience in capacity building initiatives in developing countries, particularly in the Caribbean region, is also highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is a mandatory requirement for this position. This proficiency is essential for effective communication and collaboration with local teams and stakeholders involved in the statistical production process. While not mandatory, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if it facilitates communication in the Caribbean context.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of the consultancy is from October 8, 2026, to March 31, 202

• The position is home-based, allowing for flexibility in work location. 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 policy underscores the organization's commitment to transparency and fairness in its hiring practices.