Individual Consultant to develop an integrated coral reef monitoring manual for MPA in Vietnam

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**OVERVIEW** ------------ Parent Sector : Field Office Duty Station: Bangkok Job Family: Natural Sciences Type of contract : Non Staff Duration of contract : From 7 to 11 months Recruitment open to : External candidates Application Deadline (Midnight Paris Time) : 23-SEP-2022 UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism **OVERVIEW OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE POST** ----------------------------------------- **1. Background and Rationale** The United Nations has proclaimed [a Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030)](https://www.oceandecade.org/) to support efforts to reverse the cycle of decline in ocean health and gather ocean stakeholders worldwide behind a common framework that will ensure ocean science can fully support countries in creating improved conditions for sustainable development of the Ocean. The Ocean Decade calls for Decade Actions from diverse stakeholders. [The UNESCO/IOC Sub-Commission for the Western Pacific (WESTPAC)](https://ioc-westpac.org/) is the regional body of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission ([IOC](http://www.unesco.org/new/en/natural-sciences/ioc-oceans/)/UNESCO) for the Western Pacific and its adjacent areas. Its mission is to advance ocean knowledge in order to assist Member States in the conservation and sustainable development of ocean, seas and marine resources. Meanwhile, The Sub-Commission WESTPAC also assists the IOC to coordinate regional engagement in the [UN Ocean Decade](https://www.oceandecade.org/). The Western Pacific is home to the richest level of marine biodiversity in the world. Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are considered as an effective tool that helps conserve marine biodiversity and improve the provision of ecosystem services. The Vietnam MPA network has been formed since 2010, following the Prime Minister Decree. Till present a total of 12 MPAs have been established, with most of them focused on coral reefs habitats. Coral reef monitoring has been conducted in a number of MPAs in Vietnam, using indicators of ReefCheck and Line Intercept Transect (LIT) methods. Periodical data were provided to ReefCheck International database and used for periodical reports on coral reef status by the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network (GCRMN). Monitoring data was also used to evaluate management effectiveness in some MPAs such as Nha Trang Bay, Cu lao Cham or National Parks (Con Dao, Phú Quoc). Given the fact that monitoring programs in the past mainly focused on ecological indicators, MPA authorities have no data and information to assess the MPA management effectiveness in supporting fisheries recruitment and tourist services. In addition, emerging issues such as ocean acidification, plastic and microplastic, have been generating negative impacts on coral reef, but have not been considered in any monitoring programs. Furthermore, recent monitoring seems not to be sufficient to record coral bleaching which occurred frequently and remain unpredicted. We are seeking an experienced consultant from Vietnam, who is qualified to develop an integrated coral reef monitoring manual to support Marine Protected Areas management in Vietnam. This study is conducted as part of an international effort in formulating a regional action for the UN Ocean Decade catalyzing transformative ocean science solutions to sustainable development. The incumbent can work remotely. **Key Duties and Responsibilities** ----------------------------------- **2. Key Duties and Responsibilities** Under the overall authority of the Director of the UNESCO Regional Bureau for the Asia and Pacific, and the direct supervision of the Head of the WESTPAC Office, the incumbent shall carry out desktop studies, field work, stakeholder consultation, and develop partnerships with relevant institutions, including a. Review monitoring techniques which were applied for coral reefs in the Western Pacific, and more specifically in Vietnam, including their socio-economic aspects; b. Conduct site visits in at least 2 selected MPAs, analyze status in using coral reef resources for fisheries and tourism as well as monitoring requirements, identify appropriate methods for monitoring socio-economic indicators and emerging issues; c. Contact (online) MPA authorities in Vietnam, analyze monitoring requirements, and identify their existing monitoring capacity; d. Develop and publish an integrated coral reef monitoring manual for MPAs in Vietnam, taking into account the conventional monitoring methods and emerging requirements for understanding the impacts of ocean acidification, marine plastic debris, including their socio-economic aspects; e. Conduct demonstration workshop (s) for MPAs in Vietnam, and assist in the establishment of needed monitoring capacity; f. Prepare and produce various reports associated with the Specific Tasks outlined above; ​​​​​g. Submit to UNESCO the following deliverables: 1. Reviewing report on monitoring techniques for coral reefs in the Western Pacific, and more specifically in Vietnam, including their socio-economic aspects by 15 November 2022 2. Report on the status and analysis in using coral reef resources for fisheries and tourism at the 2 selected MPAs by 20 December 2022 3. Report on monitoring requirements and existing monitoring capacity for MPAs in Vietnam by 20 January 2023 4. Report on the demonstration workshop (s) for MPAs in Vietnam by 15 March 2023 5. Integrated coral reef monitoring manual for MPAs in Vietnam by 30 April 2023 *In line with UNESCO’s overall gender mainstreaming strategy, the consultant is expected to integrate a gender perspective in all activities and apply gender mainstreaming concepts whenever feasible.* **COMPETENCIES (Core / Managerial)** ------------------------------------ Accountability (C) Communication (C) Innovation (C) Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement (C) Planning and organizing (C) Results focus (C) Teamwork (C) **-** ----- For detailed information, please consult the [UNESCO Competency Framework](https://en.unesco.org/sites/default/files/competency_framework_e.pdf). **QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILL REQUIRED** ------------------------------------- - At least 10 years experience in research and management of MPAs as well as in coral reef monitoring - Advanced Degree (or equivalent experience) in the field of marine science with excellent organizational skills - Good understanding of global and regional and national efforts in this domain - Good knowledge of Word, PowerPoint, Excel - Excellent command of English - Excellent attention to detail, proactive, diligent, willing to learn, dedicated and responsible - Highly organized, be able to work on several tasks simultaneously, be able to prioritize and to utilize efficient time management skills - Excellent interpersonal skills, ability to collaborate and work in a team in a multicultural environment **APPLICATION PROCESS** ----------------------- Interested individuals are invited to submit to UNESCO Bangkok Office the specific requirements through [careers.unesco.org](https://career2.successfactors.eu/sfcareer/jobreqcareer?jobId=10801&company=unesco). A consortium of individuals is also permitted to apply for the consultancy. Interested candidates should click on “**Apply Now**” and download and complete the Employment History form (Word document) in **‘Employment History Form / My Documents’**. Before uploading the document, at the end of the word document, please insert the extra pages with the following required information: - An up-to-date CV stating details of educational qualifications, work experience, including prior experience of similar work with a list of past similar work or report/publication written with hyperlinks to access such paper if they are available online or samples of such papers if they are only available offline. - A brief technical proposal (1-2 pages) discussing the approach/methodology to undertake the assignment. - The proposed fee in US dollars to undertake the assignment. Any travel and subsistence requirements should be indicated separately. **The complete application shall be submitted on or before 23 September 2022, 24:00 Paris time.** **Note:** - Due to the large number of applications we receive, we are able to inform only the successful candidate(s) about the outcome or status of the selection process. - Please submit your application through SuccessFactors. Only if you are unable to attach requirements in system, please inform us at **[email protected]**. **SELECTION AND RECRUITMENT PROCESS** ------------------------------------- Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. To apply, please visit the [UNESCO careers website](https://careers.unesco.org/careersection/2/joblist.ftl). No modifications can be made to the application submitted. The evaluation of candidates is based on the criteria in the vacancy notice and may include a competency-based interview. UNESCO uses communication technologies such as video or teleconference, e-mail correspondence, etc. for the assessment and evaluation of candidates. UNESCO places great emphasis on ensuring that the objectives of the work assignment, as described in the Terms of Reference, are met. Accordingly, in evaluating the proposals for the assignment, attention will focus first and foremost on the technical elements. From those proposals deemed suitable in terms of the criteria in the Terms of Reference, UNESCO shall select the proposal that offers the Organization best value for money. Please note that only selected candidates will be further contacted and candidates in the final selection step will be subject to reference checks based on the information provided. **Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.** **Footer** ---------- UNESCO applies a zero tolerance policy against all forms of harassment. UNESCO is committed to achieve and sustain gender parity among its staff members in all categories and at all grades. Furthermore, UNESCO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities, as well as nationals from non-and under-represented Member States [(last update here)](https://en.unesco.org/careers/geographicaldistribution) are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality. Worldwide mobility is required for staff members appointed to international posts. UNESCO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.