Communications Expert , United Nations University Institute of Advanced Studies

United Nations University Institute of Advanced Studies (UNU-IAS):
UNU-IAS was inaugurated in April 1996. It conducts research, postgraduate education and capacity development, both in-house and in co-operation with an interactive network of academic institutions and 
international organizations. The thematic direction of UNU-IAS concerns the interactions of social and natural systems. The current research agenda focuses on strategic paths to sustainable development and under this broad theme projects focus on biodiversity, sustainable development governance, urban ecosystems, science and technology policy options for developing and least developed countries, and sustainable development education. More information on UNU-IAS, its programme of activities and 
academic community is available at www.ias.unu.edu.

Responsibilities:
The Institute is recruiting a Communications Expert for the International Satoyama Initiative (ISI). Under the overall supervision of the UNU-IAS Director, and the direct supervision of the Programme Director of the ISI, the Communications Expert will be responsible for the following duties:

- Assist in writing and editing of ISI documents such as meeting papers, brochures, announcements, case study summaries, articles and speeches for online and print publications to ensure quality, coherence and correctness;
- Assist in the organization of the IPSI Global Conference and other events;
- Assist in developing communication strategies;
- Assist with communication and dissemination activities, including promotional materials and website content development, to promote ISI visibility;
- Contribute to development of content and co-ordination for production of print products for ISI; and
- Perform any other duties as may be assigned or required by the Programme Director.

Required Qualifications and Experience:
- Master’s degree or equivalent in the area of environment, development, social sciences, or a related discipline;
- At least three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in a related area. Work experience in international organizations or promoting major international initiatives is an asset;
- Excellent writing skills and writing experience on a professional level;
- Knowledge of relevant computer and media applications (such as Adobe Photoshop and InDesign) as well as familiarity with social media platforms;
- Excellent communication skills with fluency in both oral and written English. Knowledge of Japanese or another UN official language is an asset;
- Excellent analytical skills as well as demonstrated ability to multi-task and to manage own workload and schedule to deliver timely results;
- A good team player with strong interpersonal skills demonstrated by the ability to work in a multicultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.

Remuneration: 
Monthly remuneration can range from JPY 280,000 to 360,000, depending on the candidate’s academic qualifications and years of work experience.

Duration of Contract: 
This is a full time employment on a one (1) year Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) contract with UNU-IAS, with the possibility for renewal subject to requirements and satisfactory work performance. The successful candidate will be employed under a local contract and will not hold international civil servant status nor be a “staff member” as defined in the United Nations Staff Rules and Regulations. UNU does not sponsor a working visa for this position. Applications from suitably qualified women candidates and those from developing countries are 
particularly encouraged.

Starting Date: 
It is expected that the appointee will take up the position by 1 October 2013 or soon thereafter.

Application Procedure:
Interested applicants should submit their applications, preferably by email (to recruitment@ias.unu.edu), and must include the following:
- a cover letter setting out how the qualifications and experience match the requirements of the position;
- a list of publications and/or recent writing samples;
- a curriculum vitae and a completed and signed UNU Personal History (P.11) form downloadable from United Nations University website at http://unu.edu/about/hr. Please avoid using similar forms provided by other United Nations organizations;
- full contact information of three (3) referees (UNU-IAS will directly contact the referees in the event that the candidate is shortlisted); and
- an indication of the reference number of the vacancy announcement (2013/UNU/IAS/PSA/CE/ISI/42).

Further information available at http://www.ias.unu.edu/sub_page.aspx?catID=55&ddlID=367