International Consultant to Conduct National Value Chain Studies on Marine Biotechnology and Sea Cucumber

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), which focuses on promoting economic and social development in African countries. Established in 1958, UNECA aims to foster regional integration and promote sustainable development through research, policy analysis, and capacity building. The organization operates in multiple countries across Africa, working with governments, regional organizations, and other stakeholders to address various economic and social challenges. UNECA has a diverse workforce, including experts in various fields, and collaborates with international partners to enhance its impact on the continent.

Job Overview:
The position involves conducting two national value chain studies aimed at developing the marine biotechnology sector in Seychelles and the sea cucumber industry in Zanzibar. The consultant will assess the current state of these sectors, identify opportunities for growth, and provide actionable recommendations for establishing sustainable national value chains. The studies will focus on understanding the existing landscape, stakeholder roles, challenges, and potential for market expansion. The consultant will work closely with the project manager and engage with various stakeholders to gather data and insights necessary for the studies. The expected duration of the consultancy is four months, and the work will be home-based, allowing for flexibility in conducting research and analysis.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for conducting comprehensive desk research on the current status of marine biotechnology in Seychelles and the sea cucumber value chain in Zanzibar. This includes identifying related activities such as production, processing, and trade, as well as mapping stakeholders involved in these sectors. The consultant will perform market analyses to determine local and international demand for marine products, assess environmental sustainability practices, and evaluate the economic and social impacts of these industries on local economies. Specific tasks include stakeholder mapping, market analysis, environmental assessments, and developing actionable recommendations for strengthening the respective value chains.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in marine sciences or a related field. Alternatively, a first degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of a master's degree. The consultant should have at least three years of experience in conducting research on marine species and their commercialization. A thorough understanding of different marine species, experience in socio-economic and ecological assessments, and familiarity with blue economy value chains are highly desirable. Experience working with national institutions and in multicultural environments or international organizations is also an asset. Strong communication skills and the ability to work independently are essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a master's degree in marine sciences or a related field. In cases where a candidate holds a first degree, they must also have two additional years of qualifying experience to be considered for the role. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of marine ecosystems and the commercial aspects of marine biotechnology and fisheries.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience in conducting research on marine species and their commercialization. Additionally, candidates should have at least one year of experience in conducting socio-economic and ecological assessments of marine activities. Experience in blue economy value chains and working with national institutions is preferred. The consultant should also demonstrate the ability to work under tight deadlines and deliver high-quality outputs, showcasing their capability to manage time effectively and produce results in a timely manner.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, both oral and written, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in French is also beneficial, as it is another working language of the organization. The ability to communicate effectively in these languages is essential for collaboration with stakeholders and for the preparation of reports and recommendations.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for four months, and the work will be conducted remotely. The position does not specify a seniority level, but it requires a consultant with significant expertise in marine sciences and related fields. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are not required to pay for application, interview, or training processes. This commitment to transparency and fairness is a core principle of the United Nations recruitment policy.