Consultancy for conducting desk research related to air quality data and methodologies for identifying sources

Purpose and Objectives:

Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC) is an autonomous international organization that works to build the resilience of people and institutions to disasters and climate change impacts in Asia and the Pacific.

SERVIR-Mekong is one of the five hubs under SERVIR—a joint development initiative of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). SERVIR-Mekong has been implemented by the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC), Thailand, since 2014. SERVIR-Mekong uses geospatial data to enhance climate change adaptation and help address the regional challenge of managing shared natural resources.

One of the geospatial tools of SERVIR-Mekong is its air quality monitoring and forecasting tool that uses satellite data, weather modeling, and machine learning techniques to give real-time and forecasted air quality parameters to users. To further enhance and apply the technology for the region’s needs, there is a need for SERVIR-Mekong to conduct desk research to further understand additional data to help characterize air pollution sources, as well as emerging technological means and methodologies and available tools and systems.

Expected Outputs:

The following outputs are expected from the assignment:

• White paper (30-40 pages) on adequacy of existing data sources and roadmap for enhanced data quality, including its chapters aligning with the tasks below.

Responsibilities and Tasks:

1. Review current data on air pollutant source characterization in Southeast Asia.
2. Review emerging technological means and methodologies (such as space-based retrieval; regulatory-grade networks, low-cost sensors, data fusion, machine learning and artificial intelligence approaches)
3. Review available air quality monitoring systems (such as the SERVIR-Mekong Air Quality Explorer and others).
4. Identify data gaps, technology and incentives.
5. Develop a roadmap for enhancing data quality.

Working Principles:

The consultant will report to the ADPC SERVIR-Mekong Senior Scientist. The contract will be managed by the Geospatial Information Department of ADPC.

Qualifications:

The consultant is expected to possess the following qualifications.

1. Master’s Degree in environmental sciences, preferably on geo-informatics or air pollution
2. Excellent English writing skills
3. Demonstrated experience in conducting (scientific and grey) literature review
4. Knowledge on Earth Observation products and related geospatial technology, especially remote sensing
5. Knowledge on air quality monitoring systems such as satellite-based observations, regulatory-grade ground stations and low-cost sensors
6. Record of productive engagement and collaboration with scientists, stakeholders and/or users
7. Professional experience in the Lower Mekong region desired

Duty Station: Home-based

Duration: This assignment will be from 1 June to 15 September 2022

Condition of payment: Payment will be made based on completion of outputs, as per the payment schedule agreed by the consultant and ADPC.

How to apply

Interested Candidates can submit the completed ADPC application form, (downloadable from www.adpc.net), resume, copy of degrees/certificate(s) together with a cover letter, to adpcjobs@adpc.net

Female candidates are especially encouraged to apply.

ADPC encourage diversity in its workplace and support an inclusive work environment.

Note: Applicant who submits incomplete documents required as listed above will not be considered.