Edible Orchid Specialist Consultant

About the role

The United Nations Environment Programme (UN Environment) is seeking an Edible Orchid Specialist Consultant to support the CITES Secretariat in developing awareness‑raising and identification materials for edible tuberous orchids traded for chikanda. This short‑term, home‑based assignment will contribute to the implementation of CITES decisions on edible orchids.

Key responsibilities

• Produce information on tuberous orchids used for chikanda in international trade, including images of traded forms.
• Prepare identification sheets for at least 15 key species within the genera Disa, Habenaria and Satyrium.
• Support the CITES Secretariat in developing awareness‑raising material and compliance guidance for Appendix‑II species.
• Compile a prioritized list of edible orchid species for identification‑material development.

Required profile

• Demonstrated expertise in edible tuberous orchids of southern Africa, particularly those traded for chikanda.
• Familiarity with CITES regulations and international wildlife trade documentation.
• Experience in producing scientific or technical identification guides.
• Ability to work independently on a short‑term, remote assignment.

Required skills