Clinical Research Coordinator Aegis Life Sciences Boston, Massachusetts

1.0 An Introduction to FAO: Forging a World Without Hunger

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) stands as a specialized agency leading international efforts to defeat hunger. Our motto, Fiat Panis, encapsulates a fundamental human right and a core objective of global sustainable development. In a world where millions face food insecurity, FAO’s work is not just relevant—it is essential. We focus on making agri-food systems more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable, ensuring that every person has regular access to enough high-quality food to lead an active, healthy life.

This announcement represents a call for dedicated professionals to join our mission. A career at FAO is more than a job; it is a commitment to tackling some of the most pressing challenges of our time, from climate change and biodiversity loss to rural poverty and economic inequality. We are seeking individuals who are driven by purpose, equipped with expertise, and ready to contribute to meaningful, on-the-ground impact in over 130 countries.

2.0 Understanding the FAO Mandate and Strategic Work

FAO’s mission is to support members in their journey to achieve food security for all. We believe that everyone should have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. With over 195 member states, FAO works in a vast and dynamic landscape, focusing on three core global goals:

• The Elimination of Hunger, Food Insecurity, and Malnutrition: Progressively ensuring a world where no one suffers from hunger.

• The Eradication of Poverty: Driving economic and social progress for all, with a focus on rural communities.

• The Sustainable Management and Utilization of Natural Resources: Protecting our planet’s land, water, air, climate, and genetic resources for the benefit of present and future generations.

Our work is structured around five key Strategic Objectives, often referred to as the “Five Betters”:

1. Better Production: Ensuring efficient and inclusive food systems.

2. Better Nutrition: Ending all forms of malnutrition.

3. Better Environment: Protecting, restoring, and promoting sustainable ecosystems.

4. Better Life: Reducing inequalities and promoting inclusive economic growth.

5. Better Resilience: Building the capacity to withstand crises and shocks.

3.0 Core Functional Areas and Representative Roles

FAO’s workforce is as diverse as the challenges it addresses. We hire experts across a wide spectrum of fields to form multidisciplinary teams. While specific vacancies are announced individually, the following categories represent our primary areas of recruitment:

3.1 Technical and Programme Roles:

• Agriculture Officer: Develops and implements projects related to crop production, sustainable agriculture, and agroecology.

• Nutrition Officer: Leads initiatives to improve dietary diversity, address micronutrient deficiencies, and manage nutrition programmes.

• Fisheries and Aquaculture Officer: Provides expertise on sustainable marine and inland fisheries, aquaculture development, and value chains.

• Forestry Officer: Works on forest conservation, sustainable forest management, and the role of forests in climate change mitigation.

• Livestock Specialist: Focuses on animal health, production, and the sustainability of livestock systems.

• Natural Resources Officer: Addresses issues of land and water management, climate change adaptation, and environmental policy.

• Food Safety and Codex Officer: Develops international food standards and strengthens national food safety control systems.

3.2 Operational and Support Roles:

• Programme/Project Formulation Officer: Designs and develops project documents, budgets, and logical frameworks for donor funding.

• Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist: Tracks project performance, measures impact, and ensures accountability to donors and beneficiaries.

• Finance and Administrative Officer: Manages budgets, controls expenditures, and provides core administrative support for field and headquarters operations.

• Procurement Officer: Oversees the transparent and efficient acquisition of goods and services, in accordance with UN financial rules.

• Human Resources Officer: Manages the entire employee lifecycle, from talent acquisition and recruitment to staff development and well-being.

• Information Technology Specialist: Develops and maintains the technological infrastructure that supports FAO’s global operations.

4.0 Candidate Competencies and Qualifications

The ideal FAO candidate is a blend of a technical expert and a collaborative international civil servant. We look for a specific set of competencies, qualifications, and personal attributes across all roles.

4.1 Core Organizational Competencies:

• Results Focus: Plans and acts to achieve tangible outcomes aligned with FAO’s strategic objectives.

• Teamwork: Collaborates effectively and respectfully in a multicultural, multi-ethnic environment.

• Communication: Articulates complex ideas clearly and effectively to diverse audiences, both in writing and orally.

• Building Effective Relationships: Develops a robust network of partners and stakeholders.

• Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement: Actively seeks to learn and contribute to the collective knowledge of the organization.

4.2 Education and Experience:

• Education: Advanced university degree (for professional positions) or relevant secondary education (for general service roles) in a field directly related to one of FAO’s technical or operational areas.

• Experience: A minimum number of years of progressively responsible experience relevant to the specific position, often with a significant portion gained in an international context.

• Languages: Working knowledge (Level C) of English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian. Proficiency in more than one official UN language is a consistent advantage.

5.0 Compensation, Benefits, and Career Growth

FAO offers a comprehensive international remuneration package designed to attract and retain a workforce of the highest caliber. The package is competitive and reflects the unique nature of international civil service.

Key components of the compensation package include:

• Competitive Salary: A tax-free base salary set according to the United Nations common system, with dependency allowances where applicable.

• Post Adjustments: A cost-of-living adjustment based on the duty station, ensuring equitable purchasing power across all locations.

• Rental Subsidy: Assistance with accommodation costs at certain duty stations.

• International Pension Plan: Participation in the United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund.

• Medical Insurance: Comprehensive worldwide coverage for staff and eligible dependents.

• Relocation Support: Financial and logistical support for travel and relocation upon initial appointment.

• Annual Leave and Holidays: Generous leave entitlements, including 30 days of annual vacation and official UN holidays.

• Professional Development: Access to a wide range of learning resources, training programmes, and opportunities for skill enhancement to support long-term career growth.

6.0 The Application and Selection Process

6.1 How to Apply and Prepare:

All applications must be submitted through the FAO e-recruitment system at Jobs at FAO. The system is the official platform for all vacancies.

To prepare a strong application, candidates should:

1. Create a Detailed FAO Personal Profile: This is the foundation of your application. Ensure it is comprehensive, up-to-date, and accurately reflects your entire work history and qualifications.

2. Tailor Your Application for Each Vacancy: Carefully read the requirements for the specific position (Required Competencies, Experience, and Languages) and customize your application and cover letter to demonstrate a clear match.

3. Write a Persuasive Cover Letter: Your letter should not just repeat your CV. It should articulate your motivation for joining FAO and specifically how your background aligns with the role’s responsibilities and FAO’s overarching mission.

6.2 The Selection Journey:

The process is highly competitive and designed to be thorough and fair. It typically involves:

• Screening: A rigorous review of all applications against the minimum requirements and desired competencies.

• Assessment: Shortlisted candidates may be invited to participate in written tests, technical assessments, or a competency-based interview.

• Interview: A panel interview, often conducted virtually, focusing on both technical knowledge and core organizational competencies.

• Reference Checks: Verification of professional history and performance.

• Offer: An official offer of appointment is extended to the successful candidate.