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About the UNIDIR Graduate Professional Opportunity
The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) is offering a Remote Graduate Professional Opportunity for individuals interested in international peace and security, disarmament, and youth engagement. This position provides an opportunity to gain valuable experience working with UNIDIR, an autonomous institute within the United Nations, based in Geneva, Switzerland.
UNIDIR conducts independent research on disarmament, international security, and arms-related violence. The institute supports Member States, UN bodies, and research communities in shaping policies for a more peaceful and stable world.
The Graduate Professional will contribute to research, outreach, and engagement efforts related to the Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) agenda. The selected candidate will work under the Gender and Disarmament Programme and the Managing Exits from Armed Conflict project, supporting initiatives that promote youth involvement in peace and security efforts.
Key Responsibilities
The graduate professional will:
- Conduct background research on Youth, Peace, and Security-related topics
- Engage with stakeholders, including governments, UN bodies, and civil society organizations
- Assist in fundraising and resource mobilization efforts
- Consolidate UNIDIR’s contributions to wider UN initiatives such as Youth 2030
- Support event planning and outreach activities, including drafting invitations, agendas, and logistical notes
- Assist with administrative, communication, and coordination tasks
- Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors
Key Skills and Interests
Candidates should demonstrate skills in:
- Research and analytical writing
- Presentation and report writing
- Project coordination and organizational management
- Interpersonal and teamwork collaboration
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and InDesign
- Interest in peacebuilding, disarmament, and UN policies
Competencies Required
The selected candidate should exhibit core UN values, including professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity.
Additional competencies include:
- Strong communication skills with the ability to convey complex ideas effectively
- Teamwork and the ability to collaborate with colleagues from diverse backgrounds
- Planning and organizing to manage multiple assignments efficiently
- Creativity in problem-solving and proposing innovative solutions
- Client orientation with a focus on delivering results for stakeholders and beneficiaries
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, candidates must meet one of the following criteria:
- Be enrolled in a graduate school program (second university degree or higher)
- Have completed a graduate degree (Master’s or equivalent) and start the Graduate Professional Programme within one year of graduation
Preferred academic fields include international relations, political science, social sciences, international law, gender studies, and peace and security studies.
Work Experience Requirements
- No professional experience is required, but prior experience or interest in the Youth, Peace, and Security agenda is an asset
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Adobe InDesign
- Demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and commitment to UN principles
Language Requirements
- Fluency in English (both spoken and written) is required
- Knowledge of another official UN language (French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian) is an advantage
Benefits of the Opportunity
- Opportunity to work remotely for a prestigious UN research institute
- Gain hands-on experience in international peace and security projects
- Work with experts and contribute to real-world solutions
- Enhance career prospects in UN agencies, NGOs, and international organizations
- Stipend provided (amount not specified)
How to Apply
- Prepare your application materials:
- Cover letter explaining your interest in the program
- Updated CV (in PDF format)
- Format your files as: SURNAME_Name_CV-CL.pdf
- Send your application via email to: melissa.nyoni@un.org
- Use the subject line: “UNIDIR GPP YPS Application.”
- Submit before April 13, 2025 (Midnight Geneva Time)
Applications that are incomplete will not be processed. Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
This is an excellent opportunity to gain UN experience, contribute to youth-focused peace initiatives, and build a career in international diplomacy. Apply today and be part of shaping a more peaceful world.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
See also:
Tokyo University Amgen Scholars Program 2025: Apply Now!
The Letten Prize 2025 for Researchers: Apply Now!
