Forensic Expert - Governance and Policy

During the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in December 2023, the Philippine Government pledged to establish a national forensics institute to enhance the forensic capabilities and competence of law enforcement and justice authorities in accordance with the Minnesota Protocol, which provides for internationally recognized guidelines for investigating potentially unlawful deaths, ensuring thoroughness, impartiality, and transparency in such inquiries. 

The International Development Law Organization, in partnership with the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines, is seeking an expert on the governance and policies of forensics systems to undertake a study on the establishment of a Philippine National Forensics Authority (PNFA).  The PNFA is envisioned to become a centralized authority that will harmonize the diverse forensic functions of Philippine Government agencies, ensuring that critical forensic services, including training, research, accreditation, and oversight are effectively implemented in line with international standards. 

The study will focus on forensic science and governance considerations to ensure the creation of a central forensic agency appropriate for the Philippine context. 

Under the direct supervision of IDLO Philippines’ Country Manager, the Forensic Expert - Governance and Policy will undertake the following tasks: 

• Conduct a comprehensive study and analysis of the current state of the different fields of forensics in the Philippines, through document and literature review, key informant interviews, field observations, and other data collection techniques. 

• The comprehensive study and analysis should include a benchmarking of best legal practices in forensics and organizational development from both local and international contexts, ensuring compatibility with the Philippine setting. 

• Develop a set of recommendations for the establishment of a PNFA, including recommendations on implementation mechanisms and capacity-building programs, funding requirements, and funding sources. 

• Validate and present the findings and recommendations to high-level meetings of the Technical Working Group (TWG) for the establishment of a National Forensics Institute, established under Administrative Order No. 29, s. 2025. 

• Submit the Final Report and Recommendations. 

Education and Professional Experience  

• At least five (5) years of relevant professional experience for candidates holding a Master’s degree, or a minimum of ten years of experience for those without, in the fields of forensic governance, justice sector reform, or institutional development; 

• Demonstrated knowledge of various forensic disciplines; 

• Demonstrated experience in institutional reform or organizational development;   

• Demonstrated ability to conduct feasibility studies, benchmarking, or comparative assessments; 

• Demonstrated knowledge and exposure to international standards and best practices in forensic governance; and 

• Experience or familiarity with the Philippine justice sector is preferred. 

Languages 

• Fluency in written and spoken English is required.  

Specific knowledge, skills and competencies 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills;  

• Strong analytical and research skills; 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, SharePoint, PowerPoint, Teams, etc.) for documentation, data analysis, reporting, and coordination; 

• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work constructively with stakeholders from the government; 

• Proven ability to complete set tasks and deliver results on time;  

• Ability to work under pressure with tight deadlines, flexibility, and an entrepreneurial spirit;  

• Self-motivated and dynamic with a willingness and ability to use initiative;  

• Ability to take guidance, incorporate feedback, and consider various perspectives; and 

• Keen sense of ethics, integrity, and commitment to IDLO’s mandate.  

The engagement will be a milestone-based contract. It is expected to be a part-time engagement beginning in April 2026.  

IDLO is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in all areas of its operations. We welcome applications  from qualified and diverse candidates. IDLO is committed to achieving a 50/50 gender balance at all levels within its workforce. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for IDLO vacancies. 

IDLO does not tolerate sexual exploitation or abuse, any kind of harassment, including harassment of a sexual nature, or discrimination. As such, IDLO will conduct careful reference and background checks of all selected candidates as part of its selection process.   

In the interest of making the most effective use of resources, only the short-listed candidates will be contacted during the selection process.  

Application deadline: 28 February 2026