The United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS) is recruiting a Programme Associate to support its Biodiversity and Society (BDS) programme, which contributes to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and other biodiversity-related goals. BDS promotes Socio-Ecological Production Landscapes and Seascapes (SEPLS), develops the Satoyama Initiative Thematic Review (SITR), and supports the International Partnership for the Satoyama Initiative (IPSI). The Programme Associate will provide operational, logistical and administrative support across multiple activities, including international events, outreach, and implementation of the IPSI Strategy and Action Plan 2023–2030.

Job Responsibilities

• Provide operational support for IPSI, including organization of global conferences and meetings, data management, and stakeholder communication.

• Support the implementation of the IPSI Strategy and Action Plan, including meetings, outreach, reporting and coordination with partners.

• Assist with research and capacity development activities, including SDM and SITR initiatives.

• Coordinate logistics, scheduling, contracts and financial arrangements for BDS activities and events.

• Process procurement contracts, monitor consultant deliverables, and support travel arrangements.

• Liaise with communications, administrative and project consultants across the Institute.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Job Requirements

Education and Certification

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in biodiversity, environment, international development, international relations or a related field.

Experience

• Bachelor’s degree with 5 years or Master’s degree with 2 years of progressively responsible experience.

• Experience in international organizations or major global initiatives is an asset.

• Familiarity with biodiversity conservation and biocultural diversity approaches.

• Strong coordination skills for events, financial processes and stakeholder engagement.

• Knowledge of UN governance is an advantage.

• Excellent computer and organizational skills; strong analytical and multitasking abilities.

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in multicultural environments.

Language Requirements

• Fluency in both oral and written English and Japanese.

• Knowledge of another UN language is an asset.

Contract and Remuneration

• National Personnel Service Agreement (PSA)

• Monthly salary: JPY 413,167 to 456,417 (net), based on experience and qualifications

• Includes 30 days of annual leave and a health insurance scheme

• Initial contract duration: 1 year, renewable (up to 6 years total)

• Mandatory retirement age for PSA holders: 65 years