ThaiNGO

Position:  Regional Data Scientist, Development of comprehensive knowledge and analysis towards data management and assessment tools for the Lower Mekong

Period of Performance:                               June 15 – September 31, 2019

Number of Days:                                           60 days

The Lower Mekong Initiative - Sustainable Infrastructure Partnership (LMI-SIP) Program, funded by the US Department of State (DOS), Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs (OES), and implemented by Pact. The LMI-SIP Phase II, 2018 – 2021 has been redesigned to enhance regional development cooperation to adequately inform development policies and practices on large scale infrastructure development through practical partnerships among existing programs and institutions within the Lower Mekong Region that consists of Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand and Viet Nam. Donor coordination component is also a highlight of LMI-SIP aiming to synergize knowledge and expertise of the United States Government with that of the Friends of the Lower Mekong (FLM) that include Australia, Japan, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand, the European Union, the Asian Development Bank, and the World Bank.

LMI-SIP Phase II consists of two interrelated thematic components: I. Water-Energy-Food Nexus Sustainable Infrastructure Capacity Building Program, ), a regional capacity development program that aims to promote better planning and management of water-energy-food resource infrastructure development of the Lower Mekong region,  there is still a need for increased regional and national capacity in managing and monitoring environmental, social and economic resources; and II. Mekong Water Data Initiative (MWDI), a regional capacity development and coordination program that supports key water institutions agencies and stakeholders in assessing needs; strengthening the quality of regional and national data portals and a variety of water resource databases; and facilitating data coordination and sharing through dialogue, and in time, a data exchange platform.

LMI-SIP is seeking an experienced regional data scientist to develop comprehensive knowledge towards water and land data management, flow monitoring, flood/flash flood and drought warning and forecast, and impact assessment tools at regional and national level. There are a number of key existing and potential assessment tools that needed to be assessed and introduced to serve the needs and priorities of the Lower Mekong governments, the MRC, impacted communities and concerned stakeholders. The MWDI is now planning to develop and implement research, events and activities based on this knowledge and assessment. 

The winner candidate will work directly with LMI SIP team i.e. SIP Program Director and Senior Program Officer, and in consultation with the Lower Mekong governments, FLM, regional and international organizations and projects e.g. the MRC, Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC) and USAID SERVIR-Mekong, NASA, K-Water, IBM, tool developers, scientists and researchers, to name but a few;  to provide in-depth technical analysis and recommendations towards a number of key existing and potential assessment tools versus the needs of the Lower Mekong region and governments. He/She will also be required to assist LMI-SIP team in facilitating discussions, preparing analysis, background papers, concept notes and reports on relevant research, events and activities.

Required Qualifications

1. At least a masters, but preferably doctorate degree in engineering, hydrology, climate science and data management.
2. Minimum twelve years of professional research and hands-on experience with reputable research institutes, water development agencies, and international development organizations in the Lower Mekong region.
3. Possess good understanding and professional skills in applying different impact assessment tools, ground and satellite-based monitoring technologies, and data management.
4. Possess good understanding of key institutions, actors and stakeholders in water resources management in the Lower Mekong region.
5. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
6. Have flexible schedules and is able complete an assignment in timely and accurately.
7. Have friendly attitudes, team work value and is an active listener.

This position is Bangkok based. Qualified candidates are welcome to apply. Please send a cover letter and your CV to Thailandrecruitment@pactworld.org.  The application deadline is June 7^th, 2019.