Research Assistant on Climate Resilient Food Systems

Result of ServiceThe Individual Contractor (IC) will contribute to strengthening the regional knowledge base on the interlinkages between food systems and climate change, with a particular focus on Arab Least Developed Countries (LDCs). The IC will also support regional-level efforts to advance food systems transformation. Work LocationUN-House ESCWA Expected duration3 months Duties and ResponsibilitiesBackground Transforming food systems in the Arab region for universal access to safe and nutritious food in a sustainable and inclusive manner requires taking a multi-sectoral approach that considers the economic, social, environmental, climate, health, and institutional dimensions of food systems. While Arab countries have made notable efforts in recent years, significant challenges remain. The Climate Change and Natural Resource Sustainability Cluster at ESCWA plays a key role in supporting Arab countries in their food systems transformation journeys. This includes improving methodologies to assess food systems, identifying priority areas for action, and monitoring progress toward food system goals. Part of these efforts include raising awareness of the linkages between food systems, climate change, and natural resource preservation, and the need for coordinated action in those areas. General objective The Individual Contractor (IC) will contribute to strengthening the regional knowledge base on the interlinkages between food systems and climate change, with a particular focus on Arab Least Developed Countries (LDCs). The IC will also support regional-level efforts to advance food systems transformation. Duties and responsibilities Under the direct supervision of the Project Coordinator of Food & Environment Policies Team (FEPs) and the overall supervision of the Climate Change and Natural Resource Sustainability Cluster Lead, the IC would be responsible for the following duties, namely to: • Contribute to the preparation of a sub-regional report on linkages of climate change and food systems. • Support the preparation, organization and reporting on meetings related to food systems transformation, including drafting of information notes, translating documents, or preparing power points, among other tasks. • Provide research assistance and technical support for briefs, notes, and other outputs related to food systems transformation, as required. Qualifications/special skillsA first-level university degree in development, agriculture, climate change or environmental conservation is required. All candidates must submit a copy of the required educational degree. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. No previous work experience is required for this job opening. Proficiency using Microsoft Word Office applications (Word, Excel) is required. Demonstrated knowledge in conducting research or analysis on climate change and/or food systems in developing countries is desirable. LanguagesEnglish and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat; Arabic is a working language of ESCWA. For this position, fluency in English and Arabic is required. Knowledge of French is desirable. Note: “Fluency” equals a rating of ‘fluent’ in all four areas (speak, read, write, and understand) and “Knowledge of” equals a rating of ‘confident’ in two of the four areas. 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.