The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) is offering an exceptional opportunity for early-career professionals and recent graduates through its Graduate Professional Programme (GPP) 2026. This position focuses on Security and Technology, specifically supporting Digital Tools such as the Cyber Policy Portal and Artificial Intelligence Policy Portal.

Based in Geneva, Switzerland, with remote participation options available, this 6-month role provides a structured entry point into international peace and security work within the United Nations system. The programme is designed for individuals passionate about emerging technologies, digital governance, cybersecurity policy, and global disarmament issues.

The Graduate Professional will work under the UNIDIR Security and Technology Programme, contributing directly to research support systems, communication tools, and policy knowledge platforms used by international stakeholders.

About UNIDIR and Its Mission

The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) is an autonomous UN institute funded voluntarily and based in Geneva. It plays a critical role in:

Producing independent research on disarmament and global security
Facilitating international dialogue on emerging security threats
Supporting policy development on technological risks in security environments
Promoting innovative solutions to global peace and stability challenges

The Security and Technology Programme focuses on understanding how technological advancements impact international security, including:

Artificial intelligence governance
Cybersecurity policy frameworks
Digital transformation in security systems
Emerging technologies and global risk mitigation

Position Overview: Graduate Professional (Security and Technology – Digital Tools)

This role is designed to support the development, maintenance, and improvement of UNIDIR’s digital knowledge platforms, including:

Cyber Policy Portal
Artificial Intelligence Policy Portal

These platforms serve as key global resources for policymakers, researchers, and institutions working in international security and technology governance.

Key Position Details

Position Title: Graduate Professional (Security and Technology – Digital Tools)
Organization: United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR)
Location: Geneva, Switzerland or Remote
Duration: 6 months (with possible extension)
Employment Type: Full-time (100% occupational rate)
Start Date: Negotiable, as soon as possible
Closing Date: 15 June 2026
Stipend:
- Remote: USD 750 per month
- In-person Geneva: USD 1500 per month

Core Responsibilities

The selected Graduate Professional will support both technical and policy-related functions. Responsibilities include:

Digital Tools and Platform Support

Assist in maintaining and updating UNIDIR’s digital policy portals
Support troubleshooting and rapid resolution of technical issues
Contribute to improving platform usability and functionality

Research and Communication Support

Draft official communications, reports, and documentation
Assist in preparing policy briefs and analytical summaries
Support synthesis of research into accessible formats

Content Development and Outreach

Create infographics and communication materials
Support promotional activities for digital tools
Contribute to internal and external communication strategies

Coordination and Administrative Support

Participate in meetings, workshops, and conferences when required
Provide written and verbal briefings to teams
Support day-to-day coordination and administrative tasks

Required Skills and Competencies

This role requires a combination of technical literacy, analytical thinking, and communication skills.

Core Skills

Strong research and analytical abilities
Excellent writing and editing skills
Ability to summarize complex information into clear outputs
Project management and organizational capability
Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Desired Interests

Candidates should demonstrate interest in:

International peace and security
Disarmament policy
Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies
United Nations system and global governance

UN Core Competencies

Applicants are expected to demonstrate:

Professionalism: High standards of integrity and responsibility
Communication: Clear and audience-adapted messaging
Teamwork: Collaboration across diverse cultural environments
Planning and Organization: Efficient time and task management
Client Orientation: Responsiveness to stakeholder needs

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this Graduate Professional Programme, applicants must meet one of the following:

Academic Requirements

Currently enrolled in a graduate programme (second university degree or higher), OR
Have completed a graduate degree within the last two years

Preference is given to candidates with backgrounds in:

International Relations
Political Science
International Law
International Security
Technology Policy or related fields

Experience Requirements

No strict professional experience required
Prior research experience is considered an advantage
Interest in AI, cybersecurity, or emerging technologies is highly desirable
Strong digital literacy is required

Language Requirements

Fluency in English (written and spoken) is mandatory
Knowledge of another UN language is an advantage

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit a complete application package including:

Cover letter
Inspira Personal History Profile (PHP)
Short responses to screening questions (maximum 30 words each)

Application Format Instructions

All documents must be combined into a single PDF file
File name format: Sectec_SURNAME_Name_PHP-CL
Email submission required to: unidir.recruitment@un.org
Subject line: UNIDIR Security and Technology June 2026 GPP Application

Important Notes

CVs are not accepted in place of a PHP
Applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered
Women are strongly encouraged to apply
Applicants must indicate preference for remote or in-person participation
Medical insurance coverage is required for participation

Screening Questions Overview

Applicants must address the following:

Eligibility based on current or recent graduate status
English fluency and communication ability
Research experience and analytical capability
Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools and related software
Ability to manage and coordinate multiple tasks effectively

Deadline

The final deadline for application submission is 15 June 2026 (midnight Geneva time). Late submissions will not be accepted.

Why This Opportunity Matters

This Graduate Professional role offers a unique entry point into the United Nations system, particularly in one of the fastest-growing policy areas: the intersection of security and emerging technology.

Participants will gain:

Direct exposure to UN policy development processes
Experience working on global digital security tools
Practical skills in research, communication, and digital platforms
Professional experience within an international organization
Networking opportunities in global security and technology governance

For more information, visit the official website.

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UNIDIR Graduate Professional Programme 2026: Security and Technology (Digital Tools) in Geneva/Remote @Unknown