Result of Service

The consultant will deliver enhanced support for the development, management and analysis of IMEO methane science studies measurement campaigns. Deliverables include analysis products that derive and reconcile different empirically based estimates of methane emission fluxes.

Work Location

Remote

Expected duration

12 months

Duties and Responsibilities

UN Environment Programme (Mitigation Branch) hosts the International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO). IMEO is a data-driven, action-focused UNEP initiative that takes an innovative approach to address the methane emissions problem by collecting, integrating, and reconciling data from different sources, including scientific measurement studies, satellites, rigorous industry reporting through the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 (OGMP 2.0), and national inventories. IMEO will create a global public dataset of empirically verified methane emissions, with an initial focus on fossil fuel sources and will interconnect data with actions on research, reporting, and regulation. This will catalyse deep reductions in human-made methane emissions and serve the rapidly growing ecosystem of governments, companies, investors, researchers, NGOs and other entities engaging in this crucial climate challenge. IMEO methane science studies are designed to improve our understanding of anthropogenic emission sources. This is important as national reporting of emissions is often derived from emission inventories that in many cases have been shown to not accurately report actual emissions. IMEO methane science studies aim to fill knowledge gaps and provide authoritative information in the form of empirically derived emission fluxes for assessed sources. IMEO seeks a consultant based remotely that will work on analyzing methane data from fossil fuel related emission sources. This analysis will include measurements from IMEO campaigns and other data sources as appropriate. The consultant will work within IMEO’s science team, focusing especially on coal mine methane measurements. The consultant will work in close collaboration with the relevant stakeholders, including national authorities, regional organizations, civil society, industry, and experts.

Qualifications/special skills

PhD in atmospheric science, geology or a related field At least 3 years of research on science related to atmospheric measurement of greenhouse gases, particularly methane emissions from anthropogenic sources. Experience with field campaigns, methane measurement platforms (i.e. ground, aerial, and satellite based) and methane measurement techniques (e.g. spectroscopy). Experience designing measurement strategies suitable for derivation of fluxes from point and area source categories. A strong proficiency in quantitative analysis including the statistical analysis skills needed to synthesize and reconcile emission estimates based on top-down and bottom-up methods. Knowledge of the coal sector and emission inventories, particularly as related to methane emissions sources and mitigation options.

Languages

Be fluent in written and spoken English. Other languages are an asset.

Additional Information

The consultant will support the management and analysis of data from coal mine methane studies performed in different countries, while providing technical backstopping in developing a framework for a possible Steel Methane Partnership . The consultant will support the creation of deliverables that may include datasets and peer-reviewed publications. The consultant will perform the following tasks: Coal Mine Methane Science Studies • Become an IMEO focal point for coal mine methane measurement methodologies. • Review scientific proposals, results, and draft research papers from IMEO studies. • Engage with potential and contracted science partners to ensure quality of project designs and research outcomes. • Support the successful planning and execution of field measurement campaigns. • Serve as a Methane Science Study Point of Contact as needed. • Perform analysis of IMEO study data and other data to support coal studies workplan. • As appropriate perform bottom-up and/or top-down data analysis. • Assist with establishment of a methodology for reconciling coal mine methane emissions estimated by bottom-up and top-down approaches. • Perform data synthesis, data interpretation, and scientific manuscript writing. • Industry collaboration: • Assist with the definition of appropriate methodologies to measure top-down (TD) fluxes for Level 4 (source level) and Level 5 (site level) requirements for an industry emission mitigation program. • Liaise with the coal mining industry, regulators, academics, and others as appropriate to help refine monitoring, reporting, and validation (MRV) programs. Other engagement: • Provide support to other IMEO’s methane project efforts when needed. • Ensure scientific rigor of IMEO generated materials, initiatives, and collaborations with diverse stakeholders, including industry, academics, and the public sector. • Participate and represent IMEO at external meetings, interacting with the scientific community in general. • Present scientific and policy-relevant results from this work to internal committees and at major conferences. Performance indicators will be the following: • The effectiveness and management of the work. • Quality, reliability, and pertinence of gathered information. • Usefulness and quality of the information and recommendations provided to UNEP staff. • Speediness and quality of emails and communications with UNEP staff and other UNEP personnel. The consultant will be in close consultation with the UN Environment Programme Paris Office. The outputs need to be accepted by the UNEP to be considered satisfactory. Key competencies: • Languages: Be fluent in written and spoken English. Other languages are an asset. • Communication : Excellent written and oral communication skills in English and the ability to work with partners of diverse backgrounds and experience. • Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues in the IMEO team to achieve organizational goals; is willing to learn from others. Supports and acts following final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position. Can work independently and as a team member on multiple projects in a fast-paced, dynamic and creative environment. Can communicate ideas to multiple stakeholders with varied levels of expertise, including public and industry. Demonstrates cultural awareness and enthusiasm for solving environmental problems through projects based on science and solutions-focused advocacy. Is able to work with colleagues and partners of varied backgrounds and experience. • Planning & Organizing: Ability to plan, prioritize and deliver tasks effectively and on time. Willingness to travel to field measurement locations.

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.