For more than 60 years, IUCN has been the global leader in applying conservation science to the challenges facing people and nature around the world. IUCN’s science-based efforts have supported many conservation successes and increased global awareness of biodiversity and its importance. To enhance the relevance and scope of the science IUCN provides, and as a complement to the strengths in conservation science the Union already possesses, IUCN has established the IUCN Science Advisory Board. IUCN’s Science Advisory Board is a new mechanism to support the integration of new areas of relevant science into the Union’s work as well as raise awareness of IUCN’s work within a broader audience, thereby improving the effectiveness and efficiency of conservation globally.

Within IUCN’s Programme and Policy Group, the Science and Knowledge Management Team works to coordinate science and knowledge management within IUCN’s global programme. The unit also provides the Secretariat link with the IUCN Commission on Education and Communication (CEC), a network that drives change for sustainability.

The main responsibility of the Junior Professional is to promote and effectively use the expertise and influence of IUCN’s Science Advisory Board to further IUCN’s work. This task involves supporting the Board itself to provide input as well as building links with all components of IUCN and beyond.

The gross monthly salary for this position is CHF 5,000, subject to deductions for social security contributions and second-pillar pension, and before tax.

Applications are encouraged from locally-based candidates with an existing work permit for Switzerland, or Swiss or EU nationality.

1. Support the work of IUCN’s Science Advisory Board
• Support regular communication with Board members to keep them apprised of relevant events at IUCN, including through preparation of a monthly update newsletter.
• Maintain the Science Advisory Board web pages.
• Assist with organization and implementation of Science Advisory Board events including liaison with IUCN’s science networks
• Support dissemination of Science Advisory Board information within IUCN and externally.
• Assist in the preparation of funding proposals in support of Science Advisory Board work

2. Support knowledge management relating to Science Advisory Board activity
• Establish and maintain portal for Science Advisory Board information and data and ensure links with other IUCN portals.

3. Other
• Undertake one specific interdisciplinary research project (topic to be chosen jointly by the Junior Professional and SKM team) that utilizes and integrates the science expertise in IUCN.
• Provide support to the Science and Knowledge Management team as required.