BACKGROUND

Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has inflicted widespread damage on the nation’s scientific ecosystem. This devastation has severely impacted the livelihood of scientists and the functioning of research infrastructure, presenting immediate challenges and long-term obstacles to recovery and reconstruction. The war’s impact on the science sector jeopardizes not only the ability of scientists to cope with the ongoing crisis but also Ukraine’s broader reconstruction and development efforts.
In collaboration with the Junior Academy of Sciences (JAS) and the Science at Risk! platform, UNESCO conducted two comprehensive assessments in 2024. These evaluations measured the damage to scientific infrastructure and examined the livelihood and working conditions of Ukrainian scientists since the onset of the war. The findings highlighted critical trends and underscored the urgent need for strategic, coordinated action to address these challenges. Building on the insights gained from these assessments, UNESCO’s Action Plan to Support the Ukrainian Scientific Ecosystem was designed to align with key national and strategic priorities, including Ukraine’s Strategic Action Plan of the Ministry of Education and Science (2023–2027), the Resilience Plan of President Zelenskyy, and the country’s aspirations for European integration. Developed through close consultations with Ukrainian science and research stakeholders, the Action Plan reflects a comprehensive response to the sector’s immediate and long-term needs.
This Action Plan serves as the foundation for UNESCO’s broader strategy to support the long-term development of sciences in Ukraine. However, to ensure its successful implementation, immediate funding is required to support the pilot actions outlined in the plan. To both raise awareness of the challenges faced by Ukrainian scientists and mobilize the necessary resources, UNESCO, in collaboration with the National Research Foundation of Ukraine and the European Union Delegation in Ukraine, is planning a high-profile event at the end of January 2025. This gathering will bring together national and international stakeholders to discuss the Action Plan, build partnerships, and secure commitments to advance Ukraine’s scientific recovery and resilience. This initiative is further aligned with the United Nations Decade of Action for Science for Sustainable Development (2024–2033), leveraging international efforts to enhance the role of science in building resilience, fostering innovation, and driving sustainable recovery.
To support the organization of this event, ensure follow-up on its potential outcomes, and provide broader assistance to UNESCO’s initiatives in Ukraine, including support for biosphere reserves, an international consultant is being recruited. This consultant will play a pivotal role in advancing UNESCO’s efforts to strengthen the scientific ecosystem and environmental sustainability in Ukraine.

Description of duties

Under the overall supervision of the Head of the UNESCO Antenna in Ukraine and in close coordination with the Associate Coordination Officer, the consultant shall perform the following tasks:

1. Event organization: support the planning, coordination, and implementation of advocacy and fundraising events for UNESCO’s Action Plan to Support the Scientific Ecosystem in Ukraine, ensuring smooth logistics and impactful engagement with participants; contribute to the visibility of the events in cooperation with the Communication officer at the UNESCO Antenna in Ukraine;

2. Post-event follow-up: ensure timely and coordinated follow-up to the outcomes of the events, maintaining effective communication with all stakeholders and participants; prepare documents and information notes;

3. Support to biosphere reserves: assist in the implementation of UNESCO’s initiatives related to Biosphere Reserves in Ukraine, in line with Activity 1.1.2 of the Japanese Supplementary Budget, including coordination and monitoring of related actions;

4. Support the UNESRALE’s ongoing assessment: support the ongoing UNESCO survey to assess and address the specific needs of the Ukrainian research community regarding research infrastructure and laboratory equipment. This includes contributing to the analysis of collected data, liaising with stakeholders, and facilitating partnerships under the framework of the UNESCO Remote Access to Laboratory Equipment (UNESRALE) project to connect Ukrainian researchers with international partners.
Duration of the assignment: January – March 2025
Level: Junior Consultancy
Deliverables:
1) Due by 15 February 2025: A comprehensive narrative follow-up report summarizing the outcomes of events, actions taken with stakeholders, and recommendations for sustaining engagement and maximizing the event’s impact;
2) Due by 14 March 2025: Final narrative report covering all activities, outcomes, and recommendations for future initiatives, including lessons learned from the event and biosphere reserve support activities.

Qualifications and requirements

1. Education:

Advanced university degree (Bachelor, Master’s or equivalent) in public affairs, public relations, environmental sciences, international development, or a related field.

2. Professional experience:
– A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in organizing high-profile events, fundraising, or project coordination, preferably in an international or multicultural context;
– Proven experience in stakeholder engagement and follow-up, including working with government institutions, international organizations, and civil society;
– Knowledge of UNESCO’s mandate, especially in the fields of science, education, and environmental conservation, is an asset.

3. Skills and competencies:
– Strong project management skills, including planning, coordination, and execution of events or initiatives;
– Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage diverse stakeholders and foster partnerships;
– Demonstrated ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines while ensuring high-quality outputs;
– Proficiency in drafting reports and correspondence, ensuring clarity and professionalism;
– Familiarity with the management of international donor-funded projects is desirable.

4. Language proficiency:
Fluency in English and Ukrainian (written and spoken) is mandatory for this position.

COMPETENCIES (Core / Managerial)