Result of Service

The IMEO Atmospheric Scientist consultant will provide data analysis and manuscript writing for the methane science studies projects coal sector. Three key services are: calculation of inventory estimates, support to the development of a coal MRV framework; and creation of a strategy for a global study on abandoned mine methane.

Work Location

Remote

Expected duration

12 months

Duties and Responsibilities

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority, setting the environmental agenda and advocating for action across the UN system. UNEP’s International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO) is a data-driven initiative accelerating reductions in methane emissions, a major contributor to climate change. IMEO provides open, reliable and actionable data to support emissions reductions aligned with the Paris Agreement. IMEO harnesses rapidly advancing technology and growing momentum for methane action by collecting, integrating and reconciling data from methane-detecting satellites, scientific measurement studies, industry reporting through the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 (OGMP 2.0), and national emissions inventories. As a core implementing partner of the Global Methane Pledge, IMEO is helping shape the future of methane mitigation. Reducing methane from the coal sector is essential to achieving the Global Methane Pledge. However, the consistency and quality of coal emissions data must improve. A consultant is needed to assess existing monitoring, reporting and verification approaches, identify areas for improvement, and develop a collaborative approach integrating academic, industry and government perspectives. This should include strategic use of scientific studies to strengthen data quality and support effective coal-sector methane mitigation. The IMEO Atmospheric Scientist consultant will provide data analysis and manuscript writing to support the development of the coal sector within methane science studies project at IMEO. Calculation of inventory based estimates at the mine level for emissions for coal mine methane sources are needed to support the maintenance and development of a Coal Mine Methane Database. The consultant will assist the development of a strategy for the creation and delivery of a monitoring, reporting, and verification MRV framework for the coal sector. A strategy for a global assessment of methane emissions from abandoned and closed coal mines is needed. The consultant will report to the IMEO Science Studies Programme Manager.

Qualifications/special skills

Doctorate or equivalent in Engineering or Atmospheric Science or a related field Minimum 3 years of experience in Engineering or Atmospheric Science sector (required) Knowledge and research experience in air quality science Demonstrated scientific expertise in emission inventory calculations for GHG sources

Languages

English is the working language of UNEP's IMEO. Knowledge of additional languages is an asset.

Additional Information

Outputs: Lead author of two published peer reviewed manuscripts by August 31, 2027. Co-author of four published peer reviewed manuscripts by October 31, 2027. Updated inventory estimates provided for updating of the Coal Mine Methane Database by July 31, 2027. Delivery of a report outlining a recommended Coal MRV approach for Colombia by September 30, 2027. Production of a report outlining the strategy for a global study on abandoned mine methane by June 30, 2027