The Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) is seeking experts for a new assessment on integrated biodiversity-inclusive spatial planning and ecological connectivity, known as the “spatial planning assessment.”
Based on its scoping report, this two-year assessment will explore options for avoiding changes in the use of land, inland waters, and seas that negatively affect biodiversity, and for improving planning for effective conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of nature.
Who we’re looking for
IPBES welcomes applications from experts across a range of disciplines, including but not limited to geography, ecology, conservation science, land and water systems science, spatial planning, urban planning, architecture, law, political science, and economics.
There are different author roles, each with varying time commitments:
| Role | Responsibility | Time commitment |
|---|---|---|
| Co-chair | Overseeing the full assessment | At least 25% of their time |
| Coordinating Lead Author | Overseeing a chapter | At least 20% of their time |
| Lead Author | Producing sections of a chapter | At least 15% of their time |
| Fellow | Same as Lead Authors, benefiting from training and a mentor/fellow program |
Authors will be expected to attend a yearly in-person author meeting (the first is tentatively scheduled for August 2025) and regular online meetings. Experts from developing countries will receive support to attend meetings, while those from developed countries are expected to secure their own funding (though some governments or organisations may cover travel expenses).
Why participate?
- Build a network of global collaborators.
- Contribute to high-impact publications.
- Gain experience working across different knowledge systems (academia, indigenous peoples, local communities).
- Influence decision-making at various levels.