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Hiring Unit: Department of Biology (Professor Andrew Gonzalez)
We are committed to advancing the understanding and preservation of biodiversity and ecosystem services. As part of our efforts, we collaborate with the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) to implement crucial projects that support global environmental sustainability.
About - The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) is an independent intergovernmental body established by States to strengthen the science-policy interface for biodiversity and ecosystem services for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, long-term human well-being and sustainable development. It was established in Panama City, on 21 April 2012 by 94 Governments. See here for more information on the history of IPBES.
The Research Assistant (RA) will work under oversight of the Lead Programme Management Officer of the Technical Support Unit for the IPBES methodological assessment on monitoring biodiversity and nature’s contributions to people (“monitoring assessment”). The monitoring assessment focuses on evaluating the availability and application of data, methods, and indicators used to monitor biodiversity and nature’s contributions to people across spatial scales. It also considers the capacity and enabling conditions required to strengthen and sustain monitoring systems, including cooperation, capacity-building, and resource needs. The RA will provide support to the expert team throughout the assessment process, adhering to IPBES guidelines for the preparation of documents, and ensuring follow-up and timely delivery of outputs.
Position Summary:
Contributes to coordinating the overall production of the Assessment, following guidelines for IPBES reports, including for example, front matters, summary for policymakers, chapters and back matters, in line with the Plenary approved process and timeline, as well as with relevant IPBES and UNEP rules and procedures.
Supports the compilation and preparation of the underlying evidence that forms the basis of IPBES assessments, including data from diverse knowledge systems.
Supports the documentation and maintenance of pipelines for systematic literature assessment and contributes to the preparation of data management reporting in line with IPBES standards.
Supports research processes by contributing to the review and revision of research drafts, ensuring that feedback is integrated into assessment documents in a manner consistent with research quality standards.
Supports experts in delivering their work, including by compiling and editing material for the assessment drafts, or by responding to their requests (e.g., for literature, data preparation and/or analysis, etc.).
Contributes to the organization, preparation and facilitation of assessment-related meetings, including by preparing documents, summaries, and action points, and by overseeing logistical aspects.
Works with the technical support units of IPBES task forces to facilitate the implementation of their work in the context of the assessment and contributes to ensuring consistency and harmonisation of the text across all IPBES assessments.
Prepares, in coordination with the IPBES communications team, inputs for outreach and other communication material related to the Assessment. Performs other related duties as required.
Qualifications:
Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and ability to effectively interact with a large number of stakeholders from industry, government and academia.
Excellent planning and multi-tasking skills.
Ability to collect, synthesize, and manage data.
Comfort with computer technologies including document sharing applications and video conferencing.
Energetic can-do attitude and strong "people skills".
Education/Experience:
B.Sc. in a relevant field (ecology, international project management, policy sciences…) and at least 2 years of relevant professional experience.
Experience in writing, editing, and proofreading scientific documents (articles, reports), and in conducting literature reviews.
Knowledge and experience with international processes and organizations such as the Convention on Biological Diversity, and IPBES.·
Experience with effectively handling competing deadlines.
Experience collaborating with small and large teams.
Location: This position is located in Montreal, Quebec and the work for this position is expected to be performed in Quebec.
Knowledge of French and English: McGill University is an English-language university where day to day duties may require English communication both verbally and in writing. The level of English required for this position has been assessed at a level # (4) qualifier on a scale of 0-4.
$29.87
35 (Full time)
Stewart Biology Bldg
Professor
2026-04-30
2027-12-31
2026-05-28
This position is covered by the Association of McGill University Research Employees (AMURE) collective agreement.
McGill University hires on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. We welcome applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated groups to self-identify. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, [email protected].
