004/2018 - Evidence Custodian/Coordinator

Position Background

The Evidence Custodian is a member of the country Data Coordination Team responsible for, assessing, training, mentoring and monitoring domestic institutions involved in the secure management and transfer of DNA samples, and other evidence or data related to missing persons investigations. This position is based in Baghdad/Erbil and will involve extensive travel throughout the territoy of Iraq. The secure management of DNA sample data and other evidence associated with missing persons’ investigations is critical to the successful outcome of rule of law based forensic identifications and the admissibility of evidence in criminal justice proceedings.  Sample data and evidence must be managed and administered over their entire lifespan, from the time of seizure or acquisition, to eventual use and/or disposal.

Under the overall guidance and supervision of the Head of Iraq Data Coordination Unit, the duties of the Evidence Custodian/Coordinator will include, but are not limited to:

• Examination of current sample DNA management procedures within relevant Iraq’s institutions;
• Establish the Iraq wide DNA sample data flow diagram;
• Provide recommendations on how to improve DNA sample data management within Iraq’s institutions;
• Establish and work together with Iraq institutions on the development of robust chain of custody procedures in accordance with international norms and standards; to ensure all evidence is collected, secured and handled in a fashion that maintains the integrity of the evidence;
• Provide technical support to ensure the proper use of ICMP’s data collection applications and modules, including the Identification Database Management System (iDMS) and the Online Inquiry Center (OIC);
• The production of ICMP guidelines on DNA sample management
• Provide subject matter expertise for the design and delivery of the country program's activities of advice, technical support and mentoring to develop the capacity of designated authorities carrying out forensic human identification work;
• Provide training, mentoring and monitoring in the documentation and packaging of samples and evidence;
• Performing other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• University degree in biology, chemistry, engineering sciences or other relevant discipline;
• At least seven years of experience working with international organizations;
• Proven record of experience in the field of human rights or humanitarian assistance;
• Experience in documentation of human rights or working directly with victims will be considered an asset;
• Experience in the design and delivery of capacity building, training and mentoring an asset;
• Prior experience or an-depth understanding of the Iraq conflict and the region an advantage
• Excellent conceptual, analytical, documentation and presentation skills, including report writing;
• Excellent planning and prioritization skills, including the ability to think and operate strategically.

Additional requirements

• Proficiency in written and spoken English.  Knowledge of additional languages is highly desirable;
• Excellent knowledge of Microsoft applications, including Outlook, Word, Excel and Power Point;
• Proven ability to interact positively with colleagues regardless of culture, nationality or gender;
• Willingness & ability to travel outside of Iraq and to work flexible hours including weekends and evenings;
• Capacity and willingness to work in sometimes challenging circumstances and under hardship living conditions.