United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) - Graduate professional programme

UNIDIR offers a limited number of unpaid positions through its Graduate and Professional Programme. However, eligible candidates will receive a stipend, as a contribution towards living expenses.  

The Graduate and Professional Programme is intended to provide successful candidates practical experience in a research institute that serves the global community on questions of international security and assists with disarmament efforts. Selected candidates will be given an opportunity to become part of our team, working directly with outstanding and inspiring career professionals and senior management. Individuals will be exposed to high-profile conferences, participate in meetings, and contribute to analytical work as well as organizational policy of the United Nations. Initial workload will depend on individual capacity; UNIDIR is invested in the growth of its personnel.

Applicants may be undergraduate, graduate, or post-graduate students, or they may have completed their studies. Selected candidates will be based in Geneva.

Specific responsibilities vary based on the needs of particular programmes, but ideal candidates would be self-motivated, client- and solution- oriented. Typical Graduate and Professional backgrounds include but are not limited to: disarmament, international relations, peace and security, communications, law, business/public administration. English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat and are used in day-to-day professional exchanges. Knowledge of an additional official language (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, Spanish) is an advantage.

Successful candidates should be able to provide proof of enrolment in a Medical Insurance valid in Switzerland, as well as a Medical Certificate of good health. The acquisition of the necessary visas, travel costs and arrangements and living accommodation are the responsibility of the applicant.

FOR A MORE STABLE AND SECURE WORLD

Operating since 1980, UNIDIR is an autonomous institution within the United Nations that conducts independent research on disarmament and related problems; particularly international security issues.Our specialized focus on disarmament and arms control sets us apart from other think tanks. Our status within the United Nations system enables us to engage with and support Member State deliberations. Our role is to provide ideas and advice and to facilitate dialogue that can advance multilateral arms control and disarmament.

• Our vision: Our vision is a stable and more secure world in which States and people are protected from threats of arms-related violence. 
• Our mission: In a time of global volatility, the role of UNIDIR is ever-more important. We conduct independent research on disarmament and issues relating to international security. Our mission is to support UN Member States, the United Nations, the disarmament policy community and other stakeholders in identifying and advancing ideas and practical actions that contribute to a sustainable and peaceful world. We promote knowledge and the informed participation of all stakeholders; generate ideas to advance practical progress, facilitating dialogue among Member States, technical and expert communities, including the private sector and civil society; and provide advice to Member States, UN entities and other partners on concrete disarmament issues.