Graduate Professional, Horizon Scanning (Security and Technology Programme)

The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) is a voluntarily funded, autonomous institution within the United Nations. One of the few policy institutes worldwide focusing on disarmament, UNIDIR generates knowledge and promotes dialogue and action on disarmament and security. Based in Geneva, UNIDIR assists the international community to develop the practical, innovative ideas needed to find solutions to critical security problems.

UNIDIR’s Security and Technology Programme develops innovative tools and ideas to prevent and reduce threats to international peace and security arising from digital transformation. The programme works on a range of new technologies, including cyber, artificial intelligence and lethal autonomous weapon systems, while tracking the latest developments in science and technology relevant to international security. Through engagement with diverse stakeholders, the programme works to ensure that global governance frameworks adapt effectively to a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

The programme is looking for a Graduate Professional to support horizon scanning of science and technology innovation as part of its Science and Technology Watchtower project.

This position may only be performed remotely.

Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the designated Reporting Officer(s), the Graduate Professional will be responsible for the following duties:

• Conducting continuous horizon scanning of science and technology developments with relevance to disarmament and arms control;
• Keeping relevant project databases up to date;
• Supporting the analysis of the implications of science and technology developments for disarmament and arms control;
• Assisting in drafting relevant project outputs;
• Supporting events pertaining to science and technology developments;
• Supporting communications with internal and external stakeholders;
• Attending meetings, if needed, and providing verbal and written briefings to colleagues;
• Contributing to day-to-day tasks, including administrative, communication and coordination matters;
• Performing other duties as requested by the supervisor.

Key skills and interests

• Research and analytical skills;
• Writing and editing skills;
• Time management skills;
• Ability to synthesize information into concise, high-quality written products;
• Organization and coordination;
• Interpersonal, teamwork and communication (written and oral) skills;
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools (in particular Word, Excel and PowerPoint);
• Interest in, and knowledge of, science and technology developments, especially as they relate to weapons, will be considered a plus;
• Interest in, and experience with, horizon scanning will be considered a plus;
• Interest in international peace and security, disarmament and the work of the United Nations.

Competencies

The Graduate Professional is required to demonstrate the core values of the United Nations: Professionalism, Integrity and Respect for Diversity. In addition, s/he will demonstrate the following competences:

• Communication: Identifies the information needs of target audiences and tailors communication accordingly; drafts clearly and concisely; good written and oral language skills; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.
• Teamwork: Good interpersonal skills; ability to work collaboratively with colleagues from different national and cultural backgrounds to achieve organizational goals.
• Planning and organizing: Uses time efficiently; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary to ensure tasks are completed.
• Creativity: Actively seeks to improve programmes or services; offers new and different options to solve problems; takes an interest in new ideas and ways of doing things; is not bound by current thinking or traditional approaches.
• Client orientation: Considers all those to whom services are provided to be “clients” and seeks to understand and reflect the clients’ points of view in their work.

Qualifications and experience

Education

To qualify for the Graduate Professional Programme (GPP), applicants must meet one of the following requirements:

• Be enrolled in a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); or
• Have graduated with a university degree (second university degree, as defined above) and, if selected, must commence the Graduate Professional Programme within a one-year period of graduation.

Preference will be given to applicants with postgraduate degree qualifications relevant to UNIDIR’s work, for instance in the fields of international relations, political science, international law and/or international security.

Work experience

To qualify for the Graduate Professional Programme, applicants:

• Are not required to have professional work experience for participation in the programme, but demonstrated experience in research and interest in artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, international peace and security, disarmament and the work of the United Nations will be considered an asset;
• Are computer literate in standard software applications;
• Have a demonstrated keen interest in the work of the United Nations and have a personal commitment to the ideals of the Charter; and
• Have a demonstrated ability to successfully interact with individuals of different cultural backgrounds and beliefs, which includes willingness to understand and be tolerant of differing opinions and views.

Languages

• For the position advertised, fluency in English (both oral and written) is required.
• Knowledge of another UN official language is an advantage.