Consultant – Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

Result of ServiceReport on the Environmental Dimension of AMR Surveillance in Lebanon Work LocationHome - based Expected duration3.5 months Duties and ResponsibilitiesOrganizational Setting, Purpose, and Objective: 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. The Regional Office for West Asia (ROWA) delivers advisory services and capacity-building support to countries to achieve environmental and sustainable development objectives. For decades, antimicrobials have played a crucial role in treating and preventing a wide range of infectious diseases in humans, animals, and plants. However, their effectiveness is increasingly at risk due to the growing resistance of microorganisms. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has been recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of the top 10 global public health threats. AMR is closely linked to the triple planetary crisis—climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution—all of which are driven by unsustainable human activities and consumption patterns. These environmental pressures contribute to the emergence and spread of resistant microorganisms, making AMR not only a health issue but also an environmental one. In response to the urgent need for stronger environmental action within the One Health framework, the UNEP is implementing the project “Tackling the Environmental Drivers, Sources, and Challenges of AMR through a One Health Approach.” This initiative aims to support coordinated action at global, regional, and national levels to inform, prevent, and address the environmental dimensions of AMR. The UNEP ROWA is seeking to engage a consultant to contribute to the AMR component of One Health Programme in West Asia, particularly in Lebanon. The consultant will report to the Regional Coordinator for Chemicals and Pollution Action in ROWA. Further, the work will be carried out in close consultation with the relevant Ministries, WHO, FAO, WOAH, and relevant institutions, stakeholders and experts. Duties and Responsibilities: The Consultant will carry out the following duties and responsibilities: 1. Conducting a mapping study and analysis on the environmental dimension of AMR surveillance in Lebanon through: a. Mapping and analyzing different surveillance platforms used in One Health-related activities that have synergism with environmental surveillance for AMR in Lebanon b. Mapping and identifying relevant national and local stakeholders involved in environmental AMR surveillance, prevention and response c. Conducting a “Gap and Strength” analysis of the (1) surveillance platforms and (2) institutions in terms of their laboratory, technical and legislative capacities. d. Compiling all findings in a consolidated report and a presentation. 2. Presenting the findings in a consultation workshop to gather feedback from stakeholders. 3. Finalizing the report including all findings, analysis conducted and feedback. Qualifications/special skillsAdvanced degree (master’s or higher) in environmental sciences, veterinary sciences, public health, ecosystem and environment health, natural resources management, agriculture or another relevant field is required. A minimum of 5 years of work experience in antimicrobial resistance, public health, environment management, water management, wildlife and protected area management or any other relevant field. (Required) Understanding of the environmental dimension within the One Health approach, including the interconnections between ecosystems, human health, and animal health. (Required) Previous experience in gap and strength analysis, multi-stakeholder engagement and the drafting of technical reports. (Required) Strong knowledge of the Lebanese context. (Required) Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. (Desirable) LanguagesFluency in written and spoken English and Arabic is required. Additional InformationNot available. No FeeTHE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.