Job Description
UNIDIR Graduate Professional (Integrated Approaches)
The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) is currently recruiting a Graduate Professional for its Integrated Approaches – Gender and Disarmament Programme based in Geneva, Switzerland.
This is an excellent opportunity for recent graduates or current Master’s/PhD students interested in international security, disarmament, gender perspectives, and youth engagement in arms control.
About the Programme
UNIDIR is an autonomous research institute within the United Nations system that focuses on disarmament and international security. The Integrated Approaches – Gender and Disarmament Programme works to generate policy-relevant knowledge and provide practical tools that help integrate a gender perspective into arms control and disarmament efforts. It also supports youth engagement across these fields.
Position Overview
- Position Title: Graduate Professional (Integrated Approaches)
- Location: Geneva, Switzerland
- Starting Date: November 2026
- Duration: 6 months, with the possibility of extension
- Working Rate: Full-time (100%)
- Remuneration: USD 1,500 per month (contribution to living expenses)
- Application Deadline: 16 September 2026 (midnight Geneva time)
Main Responsibilities
Under the supervision of the Head of Programme, the Graduate Professional will:
- Conduct background research
- Assist in planning and implementing programme activities (meetings, workshops, conferences, field missions)
- Support day-to-day tasks including communication, coordination, and administrative work
- Perform other duties as required by the programme team
Key Skills and Interests
- Strong research and presentation skills
- Ability to synthesize information into clear, concise written briefs
- Organizational and coordination skills
- Excellent interpersonal, teamwork, and communication skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Canva, and InDesign
- Genuine interest in international peace and security, disarmament, gender issues, youth engagement, and the work of the United Nations
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following conditions:
- Be enrolled in a graduate school programme (Master’s degree or higher), or
- Have graduated with a Master’s degree (or equivalent) and be able to start the programme within one year of graduation
Preference will be given to candidates with qualifications relevant to gender, youth, and disarmament issues (for example in international relations, political science, international law, or gender studies).
- Professional work experience is not required, although relevant experience or demonstrated interest in conventional arms control is considered an asset.
- Language: Fluency in English (oral and written) is required. Knowledge of another official UN language is an advantage.
Important Notes
- Selected candidates must provide proof of valid medical insurance covering the full duration of the programme and a medical certificate of good health.
- If the candidate already receives a stipend from another source, UNIDIR will top it up to USD 1,500.
This Graduate Professional position offers valuable practical experience at a leading UN research institute focused on some of the most important issues in international security and disarmament. Interested candidates are encouraged to prepare their application carefully and submit it well before the deadline.
How to Apply
Candidates must submit the following documents by email:
- A cover letter
- A PDF of an Inspira Personal History Profile (PHP)
- Brief responses (maximum 250 characters each) to the five screening questions listed in the official vacancy
-
- Email address: unidir.recruitment@un.org
- Subject line: UNIDIR GPP – IntApp (Geneva)
- File naming: SURNAME_Name_CV-CL
- Deadline: 16 September 2026 (midnight Geneva time)
Incomplete applications and applications generated with artificial intelligence will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
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