United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is hiring an expert-level individual consultant to support the sub-national project “Reduce Vulnerability and Build Resilience in Koshi Basin of Nepal” under the global initiative “Sustainable Water Security in Developing Countries through Climate Change Adaptation.” The role focuses on applying the Climate Risk Informed Decision Analysis (CRIDA) methodology to manage water resources under climate uncertainty.

UNESCO Kathmandu leads this effort to align with national and global climate resilience goals, enhance science-backed water governance, and improve access to climate finance.

Contract Period

The contract will run from August 15, 2025, to July 15, 2026.

Scope of Work

The consultant will support steps in the CRIDA methodology — including stakeholder engagement, vulnerability assessments, model-based stress tests, and adaptation pathway development — to promote climate-resilient water management in Nepal’s Koshi Basin.

Specific Deliverables/Requirements

• Map stakeholder networks and existing knowledge for CRIDA Step 1
• Define performance indicators and vulnerability thresholds through collaboration
• Support setup and calibration of stress test models, especially for GLOF-related scenarios
• Identify robust adaptation actions and pathways
• Prepare early-stage bankable proposals for climate finance submission

Key Responsibilities

The consultant will work under the direction of UNESCO’s Science Unit and in coordination with international experts. Key duties include:

• Facilitate stakeholder consultations and workshops
• Conduct field missions to assess local vulnerabilities
• Develop hydrological models and run climate simulations
• Visualize climate risks using CRIDA tools
• Coordinate proposal development for climate adaptation funding

Qualifications and Experience

UNESCO seeks a highly qualified expert with deep knowledge of water resource systems and climate adaptation.

Qualifications and Experience

• Master’s or PhD in water management, hydrometeorology, glaciology, or related fields
• At least 10 years of relevant experience (or 8 years with a PhD)
• Proven use of hydrological models and climate risk tools
• Experience with vulnerability assessments and stakeholder engagement
• Past work with the Nepali government and climate adaptation finance is an asset

Team Expertise

• Consultant will coordinate with experts on glacier modeling, water systems engineering, and climate finance
• Collaboration with stakeholders, including the Government of Nepal, is essential

Proposal Requirements/Instructions

Submit a technical and financial proposal that includes:

• Cover Letter
• CV and academic certificates
• Work samples (e.g., modeling reports, research papers, proposals)
• Certificates from relevant training
• Financial proposal (daily rate or lump sum in Nepali Rupees) in a separate file

Submission Details

Send documents to [email protected] by August 11, 2025, 5 pm (Nepal time). Mention reference number KAT / ADM / 25 / 1179 in the subject. Submit technical and financial documents in separate files.

Evaluation and Selection Process

Evaluation Criteria

• Relevant experience and academic qualifications
• Demonstrated modeling and analysis expertise
• Ability to lead stakeholder engagement
• Quality of submitted work samples
• Cost proposal

Selection Process

UNESCO will shortlist applicants based on technical merit. Final selection may involve interviews or follow-up assessments.

Schedule & Key Dates

• RFP Issue Date: August 1, 2025
• Proposal Submission Deadline: August 11, 2025
• Contract Start Date: August 15, 2025

Terms and Conditions (General)

Only Nepali nationals are eligible. Travel-related costs are not included in the financial proposal. Late or incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Contact Information for Inquiries

[email protected]