DNA Matching Specialist

What we do

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) works worldwide to provide humanitarian assistance to people affected by conflict and armed violence. We take action in response to emergencies and at the same time promote respect for international humanitarian law. We are an independent and neutral organization, and our mandate stems essentially from the Geneva Conventions of 1949. We work closely with National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and with their International Federation in order to ensure a concerted, rational and rapid humanitarian response to the needs of the victims of armed conflict or any other situation of internal violence. We direct and coordinate the international activities conducted in these situations.

Purpose

DNA Matching Specialist implements programmes and activities related to forensic science and the management of human remains.

Accountabilities & Functional responsibilities

• Implements forensic programmes in the field.
• Provides forensic expertise.
• Assists in establishing and/or adapting forensic strategy, specific objectives, plans of action, timelines and the required resources (including budget), in cooperation with other Forensic staff at the delegation and staff from other departments, in line with the delegation's objectives.
• Contributes to conducting forensic analysis of the context and to the delegation's regular reporting.
• Supervises and coaches staff doing forensic-related work in the field (e.g. Forensic Programme Assistant).
• Holds training sessions and workshops internally and externally.
• Promotes the implementation of relevant forensic standards, including those applicable to missing persons and the management and identification of human remains.
• With guidance from the Forensic Coordinator, represents the ICRC in contacts with the authorities on all forensic-related matters at national level.

Scope & Impact

• Remit: national.
• Contributes to strategic direction at national level.
• Participates in budget planning and follow-up at the delegation.

Relationships

• Internally, interacts with all relevant departments.
• Externally, interacts with national authorities, other organizations and academic circles, etc., on forensic-related issues.

Certifications / Education required

• Postgraduate degree in medical, biological or forensic sciences.
• Fluent command of English (C1) and knowledge of other languages is an asset.

Professional Experience required

• Experience in forensic case work.
• At least 6 years' experience in forensic practice applied to humanitarian or human rights investigations.
• Contribution to scientific publications on forensic practice, especially in the field of humanitarian and human rights investigations, a strong asset.
• Experience in negotiations and public relations, particularly in promoting the implementation of professional and ethical standards in his/her field of expertise.
• Experience in forensic training an asset.

Desired profile and skills

• Strongly motivated by humanitarian work
• Able to work under pressure in a potentially dangerous environment

Our operational & field constraints

• In line with the principle of neutrality, the ICRC does not assign personnel to a country of which they are nationals
• Candidates must be in good health and will have to do a medical check-up prior to departure in the field
• Candidates must possess a driving license (for manual transmission vehicles)
• Candidates must be prepared to accept unaccompanied postings (i.e. no spouse, partner, children or dependents) for at least the first 24 months

What we offer

• Rewarding work in a humanitarian and multicultural environment
• A two-week orientation course and other opportunities for further in-house training
• Attractive social benefits
• Length of assignment: 12 months renewable  
• Join an ICRC talent pool and be considered for future assignments elsewhere

The ICRC values diversity and is committed to create an inclusive working environment. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates.

How To Apply

Ready to apply? You will need to upload your resume and a cover letter as well as copies of your diplomas and certifications, valid license to practice, passport and driving license.