Chief Scientist and Director of the Office of Science

The Chief Scientist and Director of the Office of Science provides strategic coordination of science advice that informs UNEP’s decisions, policies, interventions, and publications. Supported by the Office of Science, the Chief Scientist ensures timely, scientifically credible, and policy-relevant environmental assessments, data, analytics, and information to guide decision-making and sustainable development planning. The Office monitors, analyzes, and reports on the state of the global environment, assesses policies and trends, supports early warning services on emerging threats, and spearheads UN-wide reporting on the environmental dimension of the 2030 Agenda and SDGs.Position OverviewThis position is located in the Office of Science at the UNEP Nairobi duty station. The incumbent will be a member of the UNEP Senior Management Team (SMT) and reports to the Executive Director.Key ResponsibilitiesProgramme and Strategic LeadershipFormulate and implement the Office’s work programme, determine priorities, and allocate resources to ensure timely delivery of outputs and resultsOversee activities contributing to UNEP’s Programme of Work and Medium-Term Strategy, including budget preparation, execution, and monitoring; assign and monitor performance parameters and indicatorsCoordinate Office activities with other UNEP divisions, UN organizations, donors, and agencies; work closely with Regional Offices to support UN Resident Coordinators and UN Country TeamsCoordinate and oversee preparation of reports for donors, UNEP Environment Assembly, intergovernmental bodies, and scientific forumsStaff Management and Capacity BuildingManage, guide, and train staff; foster teamwork and effective communication within the Office and across UNEPChair meetings, seminars, and conferences; represent UNEP at international, regional, and inter-agency meetingsAdvise on programmatic and substantive issues; report on budget and programme performance to SMT and intergovernmental bodiesScience Leadership and AdvisoryServe as UNEP’s primary science advisor; set scientific priorities and advise on emerging issuesEnsure credibility and quality of data, information, knowledge, and products, aligned with UNEP goalsLead foresight, analysis, and intelligence initiatives; deliver research papers, updates, and syntheses on emerging scientific issues to SMT and the organizationEnsure engagement across UNEP offices for project co-design, accountability, and delivery of results within the Office’s mandateOther DutiesPerform other relevant duties as assignedQualifications and ExperienceMinimum 15 years of progressively responsible experience in applied sciences, environmental sciences, earth sciences, environmental engineering, geography, or environmental healthExperience in programme and organizational management (human resources, budgeting, legal matters) at senior levels in government, UN or intergovernmental entities, universities, research institutions, or NGOsExperience in environmental policy analysis, formulation, implementation, or providing technical assistance to policymakersSenior-level management and leadership experience requiredExperience in the science-policy interface is desirablePublication record in peer-reviewed scientific articles and papers is desirableAdvanced university degree (Master’s, PhD, or equivalent) in earth sciences (geology, ecology, geography, hydrology, atmospheric science, etc.), environmental sciences, biology, environmental management, engineering, or related fields is required. A first-level degree plus two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. PhD in environmental or earth sciences is desirableLanguagesEnglish is required;Application Deadline: 5 November