International Geotechnology Consultant: Development of a Typology of ISIL Tunnels, and Desk-based Review of two Sink-holes in the Governorate of Ninevah, Iraq

Result of Service Deliverables:

• Initial project plan outlining the proposed methodology, data sources, and timeline.
• Progress reports detailing the findings, challenges encountered, and any adjustments to the project plan.
• Final typology report including a comprehensive classification system for the tunnels, geotechnical analysis, and recommendations.
• Any supplementary data, maps, drawings, or other supporting materials gathered during the project.

In-country missions:

• The consultant may be expected to do an on-site assessment of the Bir Alo Antar and Al-Khafsa sink-holes (security conditions permitting). Transport and security will be provided by UNITAD.

Confidentiality and Security:

• Due to the sensitive nature of the subject matter, the Consultant will handle all project-related information and data with strict confidentiality and adhere to any data-security protocols and regulations set by UNITAD.

• None of this material can be used for publication without express written permission from the UNITAD Special Advisor.

  Work Location The consultancy is home-based with a possible mission to Iraq.

  Expected duration The project is expected to be completed within two months, with regular progress updates. The budget for this consultancy, which ends on 30 September 2023 with possible renewal, will cover all expenses related to data collection, field investigations, analysis, and report preparation.

  Duties and Responsibilities Special Note:

Prior to selection and onboarding, the short-listed candidate will be required to provide the following:

• Proof of university degrees.
• Proof of each employment listed in the Administrative Profile by the candidate. Please note that the proof must match the exact start and end dates of employment, functional titles and employers indicated by the candidate.

Background:

On 21 September 2017, the Security Council adopted Resolution 2379 (2017) in which it requested that the Secretary-General establish an Investigative Team, headed by a Special Adviser, to support domestic efforts to hold ISIL accountable by collecting, preserving and storing evidence in Iraq of acts that may amount to war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide, committed by ISIL in Iraq, to the highest possible standards, to ensure the broadest possible use before national courts, and complementing investigations being carried out by the Iraqi authorities, or investigations carried out by authorities in third countries at their request. The Terms of Reference for the operation of the Investigative Team were approved by the Security Council on 13 February 2018.

Purpose:

The purpose of this consultancy is three-fold: 1) to develop a comprehensive typology of tunnels constructed by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) in Iraq between the years 2014-2017. The typology will provide a classification system for different types of tunnels, taking into account their geotechnical characteristics, construction methods and purposes; 2) to facilitate future detection through the development of a predictive model which narrows down tunnel search parameters and; 3) to enhance understanding of the geological process and composition of the Tal Afar and Al-Khafsa sinkholes, Nineveh Governorate, Iraq.

Objectives and Scope of Work:

The primary objectives of this consultancy are as follows: - Prepare a thorough review of existing literature, reports, and available data on tunnels constructed by ISIL in Iraq. - Identify and document the various types of tunnels built by ISIL, including their purpose, size, depth, location, and geotechnical features. - Classify tunnels based on their construction techniques, materials used, and structural characteristics. - Analyse the geotechnical aspects of the tunnels, such as soil conditions, groundwater levels, stability, excavation techniques and potential risks. - Provide a model for detection strategies based on identified typology(ies), traits and other relevant data analyses. - Conduct a thorough review of existing literature, reports, and available data on the geological structure, formation process and other relevant data about the Bir Alo Antar and Al-Khafsa sinkholes.

Collaboration and Reporting:

• The consultant will report to the delegated expert from the UNITAD Forensic Science Unit with an additional reporting line to OFI and will coordinate any and all contact with government agencies and research institutions, to gather information and validate findings. Regular reporting and coordination will be maintained to ensure alignment with project objectives and requirements.

Competencies:

• Professionalism:

Strong analytical and report writing skills; Particular expertise in the geological and technological analysis of natural and man-made tunnels, sinkholes, underlying rock formations, soil types, as well as tunnel construction techniques in Iraq is highly desirable; Familiarity with the geopolitical context and security challenges in Iraq is desirable; Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, as relevant;Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations; Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

• Communication:

Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

• Building Trust:

Provides an environment in which others can talk and act without fear of repercussion; Manages in a deliberate and predictable way; Operates with transparency; has no hidden agenda; Places confidence in colleagues, staff members and clients; Gives proper credit to others; Follows through on agreed upon actions; Treats sensitive or confidential information appropriately.

Qualifications/special skills Education:

A post-graduate degree (PhD, Master’s or equivalent) in geotechnical engineering, geology, physical geography, military geoscience, engineering or a related field.

Experience:

A minimum of 5 years of experience in geotechnology, geology, military engineering or a related field is required. Demonstrated experience in geotechnical investigations, tunnel engineering and geotechnical analysis is required.

Special Note:

Prior to selection and onboarding, the short-listed candidate will be required to provide the following:

• Proof of university degrees.

• Proof of each employment listed in the Administrative Profile by the candidate. Please note that the proof must match the exact start and end dates of employment, functional titles and employers indicated by the candidate.

  Languages For the position advertised, fluency in English is required.

NOTE: "fluency equals a rating of "fluent" in all four areas (read, write, speak, understand) and "Knowledge of" equals a rating of "confident" in two of the four areas.

Additional Information This consultancy is potentially renewable depending on the operational needs and available funding.

No Fee THE 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.