The UNDP/GEF Project on Lake Tanganyika is drafting a programme to monitor the natural resources of the lake and its catchment basin. This Regional Integrated Monitoring Programme will include parameters relevant to water quality, land use, biodiversity, and fisheries. The programme will fall under the oversight of the Lake Tanganyika Authority Secretariat. It will be implemented in collaboration with governmental and nongovernmental institutions in the riparian countries as well as a range of international partners. We are currently searching for a consultant to conduct a needs assessment of the institutions identified to take part in the monitoring programme, in order to ensure that planned activities fall within the (enhanced) capacity and resources of the institutions involved.

Objectives
The consultant will be expected to generate a comprehensive assessment of the capacities and needs of the institutions identified to take part in the Lake Tanganyika monitoring programme. The outcomes of the consultancy will include concrete recommendations on: i) capacity building of the participating institutions ii) cost-effective regional harmonization of monitoring practices with minimum adjustment; iii) establishment of a system for data management and information sharing; and iv) recommendations on additional partnerships and opportunities to link the monitoring program to international initiatives.

Qualifications
Advanced university degree in natural sciences. At least seven years of relevant working experience. Demonstrated experience in areas related to capacity development analyses of environmental management/research institutions. Experience in working with/developing environmental monitoring procedures and large scale monitoring programmes. Familiarity with environmental monitoring indicators for aquatic as well as terrestrial systems. Experience working in developing countries is required, experience working with governmental institutions an asset. Advanced information technology skills, including Internet-based communication systems. Demonstrated skills in writing and revising report documents, and experience in presenting results to a specialized audience using advanced visual techniques. Oral and written fluency in English and working knowledge of French will be essential.

Applications
Applications, including a cover letter, detailed CV with contact details of three professional referees, as well as a short draft workplan should be addressed to: Prof. Laurent Ntahuga, Regional Project Coordinator UNDP/GEF Project on Lake Tanganyika, c/o Lake Tanganyika Authority, Route Principale Kigobe Nord, BP 4910 Ngagara, Bujumbura, Burundi. Email: CynthiaB@unops.org, with copy to LaurentN@unops.org

For more background info and Terms of Reference,
please contact CynthiaB@unops.org

Also see: www.lta-alt.org

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be notified

Short term Consultancy
International or Regional Consultant
Duty Station: Bujumbura, BURUNDI, with extensive
travel to the Lake Tanganyika basin states
Duration: 10 weeks
Closing Date: Wednesday 30 December 2009