Forensic Odontology Expert (Roster)

Organization Profile

Around the world, the number of missing persons is rising – as a result of conflict, climate change, organized crime, migration and other causes. By some metrics, the world is experiencing the highest number of conflicts since 1946.  Conflict and natural disasters, including wildfires, hurricanes and floods, have fueled migration, which in turn has been accompanied by a surge in human trafficking and slavery.  

The International Commission on Missing Persons (ICMP), a treaty-based intergovernmental organization with Headquarters in The Hague, the Netherlands, is seeking an experienced, dynamic and committed individual to join a highly motivated team working on this global challenge. ICMP’s overall strategy is based on upholding international law and securing the rights of families of the missing to truth, justice and reparations.  

Background

ICMP maintains a Roster of Forensic Experts to ensure it can respond quickly and effectively—both proactively and reactively—to requests from around the world. These requests span a wide range of needs in forensic archaeology and forensic anthropology. ICMP is now seeking to include forensic odontologists in the Roster.

Key Responsibilities

Under the overall guidance and supervision of the Head of Anthropology and Archaeology Division (AAD), the Forensic Expert's duties and responsibilities will vary depending on the country specific context. The Expert is expected to be able to adapt quickly to any request in order to provide timely assistance with the following duties and responsibilities that may include, but are not limited to:

• Odontological examination of human remains (either in the field or in a mortuary).
• Deployment to a mass disaster scene.
• Provision of an expert opinion.
• Assessment of standard operating procedures, guidelines, recording forms etc.
• Peer review of expert reports.
• Developing and delivering training.

Qualifications

• Professional fluency in written and spoken English. One (or more) of the listed languages; Spanish, French, Arabic, Ukrainian, Dutch, or other languages is also an asset. 
  
• Post-graduate qualifications in Forensic Odontology
  
• At least 5 years of experience providing Forensic Odontology services either for domestic and/or international organizations.
  

Other Requirements

• Proficiency in Microsoft applications, including Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook and Teams.
  
• Proven ability to interact positively with colleagues regardless of culture, nationality or gender.
  
• Ability to travel at short notice and to work flexible hours including weekends and evenings.
• Willingness to complete Hostile Environment Awareness Training (HEAT) certification. 
  
• Up-to-date vaccination record. 
  
• Willingness and ability to work and live in hardship conditions with limited infrastructure and personal privacy.
  
• The Forensic Expert agrees to maintain confidentiality with respect to proprietary and information obtained with respect to work under this contract.

Duration

The specific details of the consultancy and length of deployment will vary depending on the context. However, it is expected that the Expert can adapt quickly and when requested to deploy, respond in a timely manner as to their availability. An Expert’s unavailability does not exclude them from future deployment.

Compensation

The contract terms can be up to 31 December 2025. Payment will be made on actual work performed which will be on an ad hoc and irregular basis. ICMP cannot guarantee a minimum number of days per month. Remuneration is commensurate with experience.

In the case of travel, ICMP provides medical evacuation and travel insurance. The consultant is required to provide their own health, life and accident insurance. 

While inclusion in the roster does not guarantee recruitment, it positions you as a valuable resource to fill ICMP's future vacancies.

PLEASE NOTE: All applications must be submitted in English. ICMP will contact you directly about relevant opportunities. 

Vacancy closing date: 30 May 2024

Expected start date: to be determined

ICMP is committed to maintaining an environment of mutual respect, where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants. ICMP believes that diversity and inclusion among our staff are critical to our success as a global organization, and we seek to recruit, develop and retain the most talented individuals from a thoroughly diverse range of candidates. ICMP is proud to be part of the International Gender Champions network.

ICMP may cancel this recruitment without notice or may decide to offer a position with different duties and/or contract length.    

Please note that the appointment may be made at a lower grade based on the qualifications and professional experience of the selected applicant.