IMEO MARS Remote Sensing Scientist

Result of ServiceProvide accurate and reliable information on methane emissions based on satellite data and support the MARS notification process. Work LocationRemote Expected duration12 months Duties and ResponsibilitiesThe UN Environment Programme’s International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO) is a data-driven, action-focused initiative that drives deep reductions in methane emissions– the second biggest contributor to global climate change and a key opportunity to reduce warming in the near-term. IMEO’s mission is to provide the open, reliable, and actionable methane data needed to cut emissions at the speed and scale necessary to achieve the Paris Agreement goals. To do this, IMEO is harnessing a methane data revolution under way thanks to rapidly advancing technology and momentum for methane action. IMEO collects, integrates, and reconciles data from methane-detecting satellites, scientific measurement studies, rigorous industry reporting through the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 (OGMP 2.0), and national emissions inventories. These initiatives are game-changers for climate action – and as a core implementing partner of the Global Methane Pledge, IMEO is shaping the future of methane mitigation. IMEO’s Methane Alert and Response System (MARS) harnesses satellite data to provide direct notifications of major methane emissions. In its initial phases, MARS has focused on the O&G sector, but is currently working on expanding into new sectors, including the waste sector. Through MARS, IMEO integrates satellite data with other available databases to identify potential operators and emissions sources to provide actionable information to stakeholders on the ground. IMEO is seeking a consultant for analyzing satellite data, with a special focus on the waste sector. This work will contribute to the expansion of MARS (Methane Alert and Response System) capabilities, as well as the methane science research of IMEO. The Remote Sensing Scientist will work analyzing satellite data, especially high-resolution data, to support the large methane emissions notification process of MARS, both in the Oil and Gas and Waste sectors. The consultant will identify critical areas of large emissions, monitor them, and work with the MARS regional case managers to accurately inform stakeholders, promoting mitigation actions. She/he will also support MARS' expansion efforts in the integration and use of new satellite data In addition, the consultant will support IMEO's science efforts in the waste sector by requesting and analyzing satellite data over different landfills around the world. The consultant will also work on identifying methods to improve emission flux estimates and reduce uncertainty, and will perform politically relevant scientific research when required. The consultant will report to Science Studies Programme Management Officer. Qualifications/special skillsRequired: At least 5 years of experience in satellite remote sensing and atmospheric science, preferably in the field of greenhouse gas emissions. Knowledge of the main sources of methane emissions, especially in the waste sector. Experience in analysing high-resolution satellite data and satellite image labeling. Ability to work independently and produce high-quality, policy-relevant outputs. LanguagesEnglish and French are working languages of the United Nations. Fluency in English is required for this position. Knowledge of any other languages will be highly valued. Additional InformationOutout/Work Assignments: Analyze high-resolution satellite data to detect and validate point source methane emissions and prepare the information for the MARS notification process. Monitor oil and gas facilities and landfills with large methane emissions and explore new areas of the world with potential anthropogenic methane emissions to identify new methane emission sources. Support the integration, interpretation and use of new satellite data Support IMEO’s science team’s efforts in the waste sector, providing the results obtained from satellites. Identify methods to improve satellite methane emissions detection from landfills and reduce uncertainty in emission flux rate estimates. This may include activities such as intercomparison of estimates from different sensors, models, measurement techniques, and data sources, and testing different plume quantification approaches. Conduct politically relevant scientific research and data documentation work. 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.