Consultant/Trainer for Enhancing DNA Forensics Capacities in Uzbekistan

Result of ServiceA. Training Programme Development and Delivery B. Advisory Support on Quality Management and Database Implementation Work LocationHome-based, with a travel to Tashkent, Uzbekistan Expected duration20.11-31.12.2025 Duties and ResponsibilitiesBackground: The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is implementing the project, “Improve Forensic Capacities in Uzbekistan – Phase III”, aimed at strengthening the quality and effectiveness of forensic services, including DNA analysis, to support an impartial and fair criminal justice system. The Forensic Science Centre of the Ministry of Interior (MoI) has recently established a new DNA lab and is commencing the formation of a national DNA database. Following a capacity assessment in mid-2024, specialized training and advisory support were deemed necessary to align the lab's operations with international standards and best practices. Scope of work and expected output: The Consultant will be responsible for the following tasks, structured into three main components: A. Training Programme Development and Delivery The Consultants will develop and deliver an intensive practical training curriculum covering contemporary concepts and methods of DNA analysis, with a focus on: I. Crime Scene Management & Evidence Handling: Collection Protocols and Chain of Custody: Safe and correct sampling of biological evidence (blood, tissue, hair, saliva, etc.) at the crime scene. Proper handling, electronic/paper logging, and ensuring the chain of custody. Contamination Control: Measures and protocols for protecting samples from contamination. Logistics: Recommendations for correct storage and transportation (temperature, containers, labeling). Documentation: Protocol drafting for sample collection and guidelines for photo/video documentation and evidence logging. II. DNA Extraction, Analysis, and Interpretation: Extraction Methods: Recommended techniques (organic, Chelex, silica-based, automated platforms), including protocols for heavily contaminated or aged samples. Quantification: Required instruments and reagents for DNA quantification. Profiling: Suitability of STR-panels. Specific Casework: Modern DNA methods for cases related to sexual assault and preferred methods for biological kinship determination (siblings, uncles, aunts, etc.). B. Advisory Support on Quality Management and Database Implementation The Consultant will provide expert guidance to support the lab’s institutional development: III. ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Requirements: Accreditation Roadmap: Steps required for laboratory accreditation. Documentation: Mandatory documents (Quality Manual, SOPs, registers). Method Validation: Procedures for validation and verification of testing methods. Quality Control and Auditing: Analysis of errors, internal auditing, and response procedures for incorrect results (including necessary staff retraining). Confidentiality: Documentation requirements to ensure confidentiality and judicial admissibility of evidence. IV. Laboratory Environment and Safety: Facility Design: Necessary laboratory zones to prevent contamination (pre-PCR, post-PCR, etc.). Equipment: Minimum list of ISO-compliant laboratory equipment and recommendations for automated instruments. Standards: Standards for temperature, humidity, airflow monitoring, sterility assurance, and defining Biosafety Levels (BSL). Personnel Safety: Hygiene, clothing, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements. C. Additional Topics: The Consultants will also provide advice on the following strategic areas: V. DNA Database and Personnel Development: Database Management: Principles for setting up and managing a national DNA database, criteria for data entry/exclusion, and court admissibility requirements. Ethics & Law: Ethical and legal norms for DNA data confidentiality. Archiving: Duration for storing DNA samples, procedures for re-analysis, and standards for data archiving and backup. Staff Development: Continuous professional development programs, methods for assessing staff knowledge, and training impact evaluation. Presenting to court: consultations on presenting DNA results in court. Innovations and Planning: Possibility of introducing a mobile DNA laboratory and resource/budget planning to achieve ISO accreditation. Qualifications/special skillsAdvanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Forensic Science, Molecular Biology, Genetics, or a closely related field. A first-level university degree in the aforementioned fields in combination with two (2) additional years of qualifying work experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. A minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience working in an accredited forensic DNA laboratory, with direct experience in casework analysis, interpretation, and reporting is required. Experience in managing or advising on the establishment and operation of a forensic DNA database is required. Demonstrated experience in developing and delivering specialized training and on-the-job mentorship programmes in forensic DNA analysis, preferably in an international context is desirable. In-depth knowledge of international standards and best practices for forensic DNA analysis and Quality Management Systems (e.g., ISO/IEC 17025) is desirable. Professional experience in Central and Eastern Europe and Central Asia region on similar assignments is desirable. LanguagesEnglish and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this post, fluency in oral and written Russian is required. Basic knowledge of English is required. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is an advantage. 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.