About UNEP
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority within the United Nations system. UNEP provides leadership and encourages partnerships in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing, and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations.
Within UNEP, the Mediterranean Action Plan (MAP) supports the Contracting Parties to the Barcelona Convention in protecting the Mediterranean marine and coastal environment through the implementation of the Ecosystem Approach (EcAp) and the Integrated Monitoring and Assessment Programme (IMAP).
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Assignment Overview
UNEP is seeking an experienced International Expert to support the development of Guidance Factsheets and technical guidance for Ecological Objective 4 (EO4) on Marine Food Webs under the Integrated Monitoring and Assessment Programme (IMAP).
Job Title: International Expert to Support the Development of Guidance Factsheets for IMAP Common Indicators Related to Ecological Objective 4 (Marine Food Webs) – Level B
Organisation: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
Work Location: Remote / Home-Based
Contract Type: Consultancy (Level B)
Assignment Duration: 12 Months
Closing Date: 16 June 2026
This consultancy forms part of the SEMPA Project, funded by the European Union and implemented by UNEP/MAP. The assignment will contribute to strengthening regional monitoring and assessment frameworks while supporting the integration of biodiversity, climate change, and ecosystem-based indicators into the Mediterranean marine assessment system.
The selected consultant will play a key role in advancing scientific and technical work related to marine food webs, including the development of operational IMAP Common Indicators, regional Good Environmental Status (GES) definitions, and associated targets.
Assignment Objectives
The consultancy aims to deliver technical outputs that support UNEP/MAP and Contracting Parties in strengthening the implementation of the Ecosystem Approach across the Mediterranean region.
The expected results include:
- Development of eight Guidance Factsheets for EO4 IMAP Common Indicators.
- Preparation of draft regional Good Environmental Status (GES) definitions for EO4.
- Development of proposed GES targets related to Marine Food Web indicators.
- Provision of technical expertise supporting IMAP/EcAp governance discussions and CORMON meetings.
Key Responsibilities
Project Planning and Coordination
- Develop a detailed work plan, including timelines, milestones, and implementation methodology.
- Coordinate activities with UNEP/MAP teams, technical experts, and governance bodies.
- Support the management and facilitation of the Online Working Group on Marine Food Webs.
Technical and Scientific Development
- Prepare technical documents outlining progress and next steps for developing Good Environmental Status (GES) definitions and targets.
- Review available scientific literature, methodologies, monitoring frameworks, and regional data sources.
- Contribute to the advancement of ecosystem-based monitoring approaches for marine food webs.
Development of Guidance Factsheets
- Draft eight Guidance Factsheets for EO4 IMAP Candidate Common Indicators using the approved IMAP framework and templates.
- Ensure a harmonised and scientifically robust approach across all factsheets.
- Revise and refine guidance documents based on expert consultations and governance feedback.
Good Environmental Status (GES) and Target Development
- Develop draft regional GES definitions for EO4 Candidate Common Indicators.
- Propose scientifically sound targets and thresholds associated with Marine Food Web indicators.
- Support discussions on indicator operationalisation within the IMAP framework.
Stakeholder Engagement and Governance Support
- Participate in virtual technical meetings and consultations.
- Prepare pre-meeting and post-meeting documentation, reports, and technical briefs.
- Provide technical support and input to CORMON Biodiversity and Fisheries Meetings during 2026 and 2027.
- Incorporate recommendations from governance discussions into final outputs.
Finalisation of Deliverables
- Finalise all Guidance Factsheets after review and validation processes.
- Ensure all outputs meet UNEP/MAP technical standards and governance requirements.
Required Qualifications
Education
Applicants must possess:
- An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Marine Ecology, Environmental Sciences, or a closely related discipline.
Alternatively:
- A first-level university degree combined with an additional two years of relevant professional experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.
Professional Experience
Candidates must demonstrate:
- At least five years of professional experience in marine environmental assessment, ecosystem-based management, indicator development, or related fields.
- Experience supporting environmental monitoring and assessment frameworks.
- Knowledge of marine biodiversity conservation and ecosystem functioning principles.
Desirable Experience
The following will be considered strong advantages:
- Experience related to marine food webs and trophic ecosystem assessments.
- Expertise in biodiversity indicators and ecosystem functioning assessments.
- Previous involvement with the IMAP and Ecosystem Approach (EcAp) frameworks under the Barcelona Convention.
- Experience working with international organisations, regional environmental programmes, or multilateral environmental agreements.
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Skills and Competencies
Successful candidates will demonstrate:
Technical Expertise
- Strong understanding of marine ecology and ecosystem-based assessment approaches.
- Ability to develop environmental indicators and monitoring methodologies.
- Knowledge of biodiversity monitoring frameworks and regional environmental assessment processes.
Analytical and Research Skills
- Ability to analyse complex environmental data and scientific literature.
- Strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.
- Capacity to translate scientific information into practical guidance documents.
Communication and Writing Skills
- Excellent drafting, reporting, and technical writing skills.
- Ability to communicate complex environmental concepts clearly and effectively.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and consultation skills.
Digital Skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Ability to work effectively in remote and virtual collaboration environments.
Language Requirements
Required
- Fluency in spoken and written English.
Desirable
- Working knowledge of French and/or Arabic.
Why Join UNEP?
This consultancy offers an opportunity to contribute directly to the protection and sustainable management of the Mediterranean marine environment while supporting internationally recognised environmental frameworks.
The successful consultant will:
- Contribute to regional biodiversity and marine conservation initiatives.
- Work alongside leading environmental experts and policymakers.
- Influence the future development of ecosystem-based marine monitoring in the Mediterranean.
- Support the implementation of internationally recognised environmental governance frameworks.
- Gain exposure to high-level regional and international environmental policy processes.
Important Information
Only candidates who meet the required qualifications and experience criteria will be considered.
No Application Fees
The United Nations does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, processing, or training. The United Nations does not request information regarding applicants’ bank accounts during recruitment.
Apply Before
Application Deadline: 16 June 2026
