FAO is Hiring: Regional Environment Specialist for One Health and AMR (open to remote applicants)

The FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) is seeking a dedicated professional to fill the role of Regional Environment Specialist for One Health and AMR. This exciting opportunity is part of the FAO’s Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (RAP) based in Bangkok, Thailand, and is open to remote applicants. The position is a non-staff consultant role with a six-month duration.

About the Role

The Regional Environment Specialist will be tasked with supporting FAO’s One Health approach, particularly in the fight against Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). This approach connects human, animal, and environmental health, aiming to reduce the impact of AMR on farm animal production and public health.

The consultant will play a crucial role in the AMR Surveillance project, which involves the creation of guidelines, training, and awareness programs to mitigate the risks of AMR, especially in farm environments. The role will also involve assessing the environmental impact of antimicrobial residues, supporting the development of AMR surveillance protocols, and working closely with international partners, including the UN Environment Program (UNEP), WHO, and WOAH.

Key Responsibilities

The responsibilities for this role are multifaceted and include:

• Finalizing and Disseminating AMR Guidelines: Contributing to the creation of guidelines for AMR surveillance, focusing on the prevention of antimicrobial residue discharge into the environment.
• Spatial Mapping and Risk Prioritization: Examining the use of spatial mapping to track AMR emergence and transmission in farm environments and prioritizing interventions.
• Piloting AMR Surveillance Protocols: Assisting with the implementation of AMR surveillance protocols across Asia-Pacific countries.
• Waste Management and Awareness: Preparing materials to raise awareness among farmers about the environmental and health risks associated with farm waste, particularly in terms of AMR.
• Policy Development and Stakeholder Engagement: Leading activities related to RENOFARM, FAO’s initiative to reduce the use of antimicrobials in agriculture. This includes identifying key stakeholders and preparing guidance for members on actions they can take to contribute to the initiative.
• Training and Advocacy: Working with FAO’s Virtual Learning Centre and regional teams to produce training modules and advocacy materials related to environmental impacts and AMR.
• Supporting Regional and Global Initiatives: Providing technical input to regional and global AMR surveillance efforts and contributing to the development of fact sheets and resources for stakeholders.

About the FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific

The FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific leads FAO’s response to food security, agriculture, and rural development priorities in the region. The office works with various stakeholders to improve sustainable livestock production, manage AMR risks, and prevent zoonotic diseases. It also supports initiatives like the Regional Food Systems Transformation Initiative and One Health programs to promote better production, nutrition, and environmental practices across Asia and the Pacific.

Qualifications and Experience

To be considered for this role, candidates should have:

• A university degree in environmental science, agriculture, veterinary medicine, public health, or a related field.
• At least five years of relevant experience in environmental policy or management, particularly in zoonotic disease management or antimicrobial resistance.
• Strong knowledge of AMR surveillance, especially in farm animal production environments.
• Excellent written and spoken English.

In addition, the ideal candidate should have experience in multisectoral collaboration, especially across civil society, academia, government, and the private sector, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly.

FAO’s Commitment to Diversity

FAO is dedicated to achieving a diverse workforce. Women, qualified nationals from underrepresented member countries, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. The organization follows a zero-tolerance policy for any conduct that contradicts its values, including discrimination and abuse.

How to Apply

Interested candidates can apply through FAO’s recruitment website. The application process involves completing an online profile, attaching a motivation letter, and submitting the application before the closing date. FAO encourages applicants to submit their applications well before the deadline of 5th March 2025.

For more information, applicants can visit the FAO employment website or reach out to the FAO client support team for assistance.

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a global initiative aimed at improving health and environmental practices in agriculture, helping reduce antimicrobial resistance in farm environments. By applying, candidates will be joining FAO’s mission to ensure Better Production, Better Nutrition, a Better Environment, and a Better Life for all.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring company. For any inquiries, please contact the hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.