UNEP Project Scientist II - Urban Heat Expert

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. Established in 1972, UNEP has been at the forefront of environmental governance, working with various stakeholders to address pressing environmental issues. With a workforce of over 1,000 employees, UNEP operates in more than 150 countries, focusing on areas such as climate change, sustainable development, and biodiversity. The organization aims to inspire, inform, and enable nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations. UNEP's Climate Change Division plays a crucial role in delivering strategic guidance and high-impact actions to support the transition towards climate stability, aligning its efforts with global climate goals and the specific needs of individual countries.

Job Overview:
The UNEP Project Scientist II - Urban Heat Expert position is primarily focused on supporting UNEP cities in achieving extreme heat resilience. The role involves conducting Urban Heat Assessments in 50 cities in India, utilizing the UNEP-CEPT UHIE Assessment methodology. This includes evaluating the urban heat island effect and developing strategies to adapt cities to rising temperatures. The expert will be responsible for providing medium- and long-term adaptation and mitigation strategies, which may include increasing nature-based solutions, implementing cool surfaces, and incorporating shaded and pervious surfaces into city heat governance and local action plans. The position requires a strong understanding of urban design, climate science, and sustainable urban cooling solutions, as well as the ability to engage with various stakeholders, including subnational governments and real estate developers.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be tasked with providing technical expertise to national and subnational implementation activities on sustainable urban cooling in India. This includes direct technical support to subnational governments and real estate developers, as well as the development of knowledge products, tools, training materials, and communication pieces. The consultant will work closely with the Buildings and Cooling Unit of the Mitigation Branch within UNEP's Climate Change Division. Specific duties include conducting scientific assessments, climate analysis, and urban heat island analysis, as well as engaging with cities to promote sustainable cooling solutions. The consultant will also be responsible for fostering collaboration among diverse research, academic, and international organizations to enhance the effectiveness of urban cooling initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD or Post Doctoral qualification in environmental planning, urban planning, climate science, urban meteorology, energy engineering, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience is required, preferably with a focus on extreme heat, cooling, urban and environmental planning, and climate science. Practical experience in India is essential, particularly in scientific assessments, climate analysis, and urban heat island analysis. Experience working with diverse research, academic, and international organizations is also crucial for this role. Qualifying years of experience will be calculated following the receipt of the first level university degree recognized by the United Nations.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a PhD or Post Doctoral qualification in fields such as environmental planning, urban planning, climate science, urban meteorology, energy engineering, or related disciplines. This advanced education is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively contribute to the objectives of the UNEP's India Cooling Programme and address the challenges associated with urban heat resilience.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of experience in a relevant field, with a strong emphasis on extreme heat, cooling, urban and environmental planning, and climate science. Candidates should have practical experience in India, particularly in conducting scientific assessments, climate analysis, and urban heat island analysis. This experience is vital for understanding the local context and effectively engaging with stakeholders in the implementation of sustainable urban cooling solutions.

Languages:
Fluency in written and oral English is required for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Additionally, knowledge of Hindi is required to facilitate communication and engagement with local stakeholders in India. Knowledge of another UN language would be considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's ability to collaborate in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to be remote, with a duration of 12 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 meetings, processing, or training. Furthermore, the organization does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts, ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process.