Sea cucumber population assessment specialist (1 Post)

Result of Service1. Project plan on sea cucumber population surveys, including provisionary survey design methodology and timeline for two Parties (Solomon Islands and Samoa). 2. Field report on the details and preliminary results of the field survey for Solomon Islands. 3. Final Report on data collected and preliminary analysis on CITES listed sea cucumber species that can inform an NDF for Solomon Islands. Work LocationRemote Expected duration10 Months. Estimated starting date: 31 May 2025; end date: 31 March 2026 Duties and ResponsibilitiesThe United Nations Environment Programme (UN Environment) 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 Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) is an international agreement between states. Its aim is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival (www.cites.org). The CITES Secretariat is administered by UN Environment and is located at the Geneva duty station. This assignment is part of the CITES Secretariat’s work under Science Unit and will undertake tasks related to supporting Parties in the implementation of CITES-listed sea cucumber species of the Secretariat. Under the overall supervision of the Chief of the Science Unit, the sea cucumber population assessment specialist consultant will: 1. Design and plan population assessments for CITES-listed sea cucumbers in collaboration with the CITES Authorities of Solomon Islands and Samoa: a) Review relevant literature and existing data to define the objectives and scope of the survey, focusing on CITES-listed sea cucumber species; b) Using accepted scientific methods develop a survey design, including sampling methodologies, data collection protocols, and analysis approaches, considering the specific ecological and logistical constraints of the Solomon Islands and Samoa; c) Identify the necessary resources, including personnel, equipment, and logistical requirements, taking into account local expertise and infrastructure; d) Establish a realistic timeline with key milestones and deliverables ensuring timely completion of the survey and analysis; and e) Include an emergency response plan that considers logistical and operational challenges, such as weather conditions, remote locations, and potential security risks; and f) Submit the draft project plan for review and incorporate feedback before finalization. 2. Conduct population surveys according to the project plan for Solomon Islands: a) Implement the approved survey plan, ensuring adherence to the methodology and data collection protocols, to the extent possible; b) Systematically collect and document data, including species observations, abundance, size structure, and environmental conditions; c) Conduct quality control checks on data during and post-survey to ensure accuracy and completeness; d) Prepare a field report summarizing key findings, observations, and any challenges encountered. 3. Conduct data analysis and compile a final report for surveys in Solomon Islands: a) Analyse the collected data using appropriate statistical methods to assess population status and spatial distribution of CITES-listed sea cucumber species; b) Compile the final dataset, including raw data and metadata, in a standardised .csv format; c) Develop evidence-based recommendations for conservation and management of CITES-listed sea cucumber species, including if appropriate and consistent with national fisheries management plans recommendations for non-detriment findings and sustainable Total Allowable Catches (TACs); d) Draft a final report, incorporating methodology, findings, and recommendations; and e) Present the final report and findings to relevant stakeholders [in person or remotely], including the CITES Management and Scientific Authorities of Solomon Islands, for review and discussion. Qualifications/special skillsMasters degree in biological or fisheries sciences. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. • At least 6 years of proven experience in conducting fishery-independent marine surveys, particularly in tropical marine ecosystems is required. • Demonstrated expertise in the biology and ecology of sea cucumbers, including CITES-listed species is required. • Understanding of how population surveys inform setting sustainable fisheries management objectives, such as sustainable TACs and informing non-detriment findings for sea cucumber species is required. • Strong knowledge of statistical programming language and statistical analysis techniques, including population modelling and interpretation statistics and trends is required. • Experience in developing non-detriment findings for CITES-listed marine species, including sea cucumber species is desirable. • Experience working in remote and challenging field conditions in the Pacific is desirable. • Demonstrated experience in collaborating with both national and regional organisations and adhering to international standards for marine conservation and management in the Pacific and/or elsewhere is desirable. • Experience working to support Parties on sustainable management of resources, specifically in Solomon Islands and/or similar Pacific Small Island Developing States is desirable. • Experience with international organizations is an advantage. • Excellent interpersonal skills; culturally and socially sensitive; ability to work inclusively and collaboratively with a range of partners is desirable. LanguagesFluency in spoken and written English is required. Additional InformationReporting lines: The consultant will be reporting to the Chief and the Associate Programme Management Officer in the Science Unit. Payments modalities: Payments will be made upon successful completion, review and quality assurance of the deliverables specified under Outputs/Work Assignment above. All deliverables must be submitted by the contractor to the respective direct Supervisors and certified as being of adequate quality and meeting the terms of the deliverables before payments will be made. Competencies: Professionalism: demonstrated understanding of operations relevant to CITES Secretariat; technical capabilities or knowledge relevant or transferrable to CITES Secretariat procedures and rules; discretion, political sensitivity, diplomacy and tact to deal with clients; ability to apply good judgement; ability to liaise and coordinate with a range of different actors, especially with Parties; where appropriate, high degree of autonomy, personal initiative and ability to take ownership; resourcefulness and willingness to accept wide responsibilities and ability to work independently under established procedures; ability to manage information objectively, accurately and confidentially; responsive and client-oriented; Teamwork and respect for diversity: ability to operate effectively across organizational boundaries; excellent interpersonal skills; ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and harmonious working relations in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic, mixed-gender environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity; sensitivity and adaptability to culture, gender, religion, nationality and age; commitment to implementing the goal of gender equality by ensuring the equal participation and full involvement of women and men in all aspects of UN operations; ability to achieve common goals and provide guidance or training to colleagues; Planning and organizing: effective organizational and problem-solving skills and ability to manage a large volume of work, especially in remote areas; ability to establish priorities and to plan, coordinate and monitor (own) work; ability to work under pressure, with conflicting deadlines, and to handle multiple concurrent projects/activities; Communication: proven interpersonal skills; good spoken and written communication skills, including ability to prepare clear and concise reports; ability to present complex data and analysis results; ability to make and defend recommendations; ability to communicate and empathize with staff (including national staff) volunteers coming from very diverse backgrounds; capacity to transfer information and knowledge to a wide range of different target groups; 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.