International Consultant for Kanchenjunga Biosphere Reserve Nomination

JOB DETAILS

Type of contract : Consultant Contract

Level :  Level 3 - Senior

Hiring Unit : Natural Sciences Sector (SC)

Duty Station : Kathmandu

Work location : Remote

Duration of contract : 4 months

Hiring open to : External candidates

Application deadline (Midnight UTC+5 Time) : 28/05/2026

UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism

OVERVIEW

The Kangchenjunga Conservation Area in eastern Nepal represents one of the world’s most significant mountain ecosystems, characterized by exceptional biodiversity, rich cultural heritage and strong community-based governance systems. The area provides critical habitat for globally threatened species such as the snow leopard and red panda, while sustaining the livelihoods, traditional knowledge, and cultural identity of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs).

Building on UNESCO’s past engagement in the region, the Government of Nepal is advancing the preparation of a Biosphere Reserve nomination for KCA under UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme. The nomination process requires a rigorous, evidence-based, and participatory approach, including ecological and socio-economic assessments, spatial zonation, stakeholder consultations, and compilation of a comprehensive dossier in line with the MAB Statutory Framework.

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ASSIGNMENTS

The consultant will support the development of the Nomination Dossier for designation of Kanchenjunga Conservation Area (KCA) as UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with the following tasks:

1. Provide comprehensive guidance and technical assistance in preparing the nomination dossier for the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area (KCA) as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
2. Conduct a thorough review of existing documentation, including management plans, zoning plans, biodiversity data, and socio-economic information.
3. Identify gaps in information and recommend data collection strategies.
4. Comprehensive advice in drafting the nomination dossier according to UNESCO guidelines and criteria and the guidance of the MAB Committee.
5. Evaluate the KCA's alignment with UNESCO Biosphere Reserve criteria.
6. Review the current legal parameters of Nepal for designation of Kanchenjunga Conservation Area (KCA) as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
7. Provide recommendations for enhancing the site's suitability for Biosphere Reserve designation.
8. Evaluate the existing management plan for principles of sustainable development, biodiversity conservation, and community involvement in line with Local Adaptation Plans for Action (LAPA).
9. Conduct training sessions (online) for Nepalese officials and stakeholders on Biosphere Reserve concepts, management principles, and best practices.

10. Travel to Nepal (KCA site as required) for the finalization and validation of BR dossier (for 7-10 days).

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CONTRACT DURATION

30 days, May-August 2026 

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DELIVERABLES

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COMPETENCIES - Core (C) & Managerial (M)

• Communication (C)
• Accountability (C)
• Innovation (C)
• Knowlegde sharing and continuous improvement (C)
• Planning and organizing (C)
• Results focus (C)
• Teamwork (C)

For detailed information, please consult the UNESCO Competency Framework.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

• Master’s degree in environmental sciences, biodiversity conservation, natural resources management, or related Natural sciences field.

WORK EXPERIENCE

• At least 15 years of professional experience in biodiversity and conservation planning.
• Experience in developing a UNESCO biosphere reserve dossier in the past is a requirement.

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SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• Strong analytical, coordination and report-writing skills.
• Experience in multi-stakeholder and community-based processes

LANGUAGES

• Excellent written and spoken English.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applicants should submit:

•           A cover letter

•           Updated CV

Note: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted to submit techincal and financial proposals in the next proces.

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SELECTION AND RECRUITMENT PROCESS

Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information, by the above deadline.

To apply, please visit the UNESCO Careers website. No modifications can be made to the application once submitted. 

The process may include pre-recorded video interviews and/or written assessments, interviews with a Panel, as well as reference checks. In addition, candidates may be requested to provide additional information which may be pertinent to the position’s qualifications.  

Please note that all candidates, whether selected or not, will be informed of the outcome of their application in due course. 

Short-listed candidates may also be added to Talent Pools; subject to their consent (i.e. Data Privacy Statement).

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• UNESCO recalls that paramount consideration in the appointment of personnel shall be the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence and integrity.
• UNESCO applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment.
• lndividuals from minority groups and indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply.
• All applications will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality.
• The statutory retirement age at UNESCO is 65 years.
• UNESCO does not charge a fee at any stage of the hiring process.