Graduate Professional Opportunities at UNIDIR: Integrated Approaches – Gender and Disarmament

The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) is inviting applications for its Graduate Professional Programme (GPP), offering two positions within the Integrated Approaches – Gender and Disarmament programme. These positions present a unique opportunity for early-career professionals and recent graduates to contribute to international peace and security while gaining hands-on experience in a leading United Nations research institution.

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About UNIDIR

UNIDIR is an autonomous research institute within the United Nations that specializes in disarmament and international security issues. Its mission is to foster a safer and more secure world by supporting Member States, the UN, and the research community in advancing actionable ideas for a peaceful global environment. The institute is headquartered in the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, and conducts independent research that informs policy and practice in the field of disarmament.

The Integrated Approaches – Gender and Disarmament programme focuses on generating policy-relevant knowledge, providing practical tools for multilateral practitioners, and promoting the integration of a gender perspective into arms control and disarmament work. The programme also emphasizes youth engagement, encouraging new voices to contribute to global security debates.

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Position Details

UNIDIR is offering two Graduate Professional positions, one based in Geneva and the other remote. The appointments are temporary for six months, with the possibility of extension. The selected candidates will start in March 2026 and will work full-time (100% occupational rate).

Remuneration for the Geneva-based position includes a stipend of USD 1,331 per month, intended as a contribution to living expenses. Remote candidates will receive a reduced stipend, with adjustments if they already receive financial support from other sources. Travel, visa, accommodation, and other living expenses are the responsibility of the Graduate Professional or their sponsoring institution.

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Key Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Head of Programme, Graduate Professionals will:

• Conduct background research on gender, youth, and disarmament issues.
• Assist in planning and implementing programme activities, such as meetings, workshops, conferences, and field missions.
• Support day-to-day tasks, including communications, coordination, and administrative work.
• Perform additional tasks as required by programme staff.

This is a unique opportunity to gain exposure to the inner workings of a UN programme while contributing to practical and policy-oriented outputs.

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Required Skills and Competencies

Candidates should demonstrate the following skills:

• Research and presentation abilities, with the capacity to synthesize information into concise briefs.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Excellent interpersonal, teamwork, and communication skills (both written and oral).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and graphic design software such as InDesign.
• A genuine interest in international peace and security, gender, youth engagement, and UN activities.

Core competencies expected include professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity, as well as creativity, client orientation, and planning and organizing skills.

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Qualifications

Applicants must meet one of the following educational requirements:

• Be enrolled in a graduate programme (second university degree or higher), or
• Have recently graduated with a relevant degree and be able to commence the Graduate Professional Programme within one year of graduation.

Preferred fields of study include international relations, political science, international law, and gender studies. Professional experience is not required, though interest or experience in conventional arms control will be considered an asset. Fluency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of additional UN languages is a plus.

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Application Process

Interested candidates should submit:

• A cover letter
• The Inspira Personal History Form (PHP)
• Brief responses (up to 30 words each) to screening questions addressing qualifications, language skills, software proficiency, organizational abilities, and any relevant publications

Applications must be submitted in PDF format titled SURNAME_Name_CV-CL to unidir.recruitment@un.org. The email subject line should indicate whether you are applying for “UNIDIR GPP – Remote” or “UNIDIR GPP – Geneva-based.”

The deadline for applications is 31 January 2026, midnight Geneva time. Please note that incomplete, late, or AI-generated applications will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Visit HERE for more information on any of the positions

Important: Applicants must provide proof of valid medical insurance coverage for the full programme duration and a medical certificate of good health prior to commencement.

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Why Apply?

This is more than a temporary role—it is a gateway into the UN system, offering a unique blend of research, policy development, and practical programme experience. Participants will engage directly with key disarmament and gender-related initiatives, contributing to global efforts for sustainable peace. The programme also offers professional mentorship and networking opportunities with international experts, which can be invaluable for future career development in international organizations.

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Other Opportunities at UNIDIR

• Associate Administrative Officer (P2) – Geneva, closing 25 January 2026
• Research Fellow (Space Security) – 10 positions – Remote, closing 31 January 2026

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