The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) is inviting applications for its Graduate Professional position in Integrated Approaches – Gender and Disarmament in Geneva, Switzerland. The opportunity provides graduate students and eligible recent graduates with the chance to gain practical professional experience within a United Nations institution while contributing to research and programme activities focused on disarmament, international peace and security, gender, and youth engagement.
The Graduate Professional will work within UNIDIR’s Integrated Approaches – Gender and Disarmament Programme, supporting research, programme implementation, communication, coordination and administrative activities. The position is particularly suited to candidates interested in international relations, political science, international law, gender studies, disarmament, arms control, youth engagement and United Nations affairs.
The position is based in Geneva, is full-time, and is expected to begin in November 2026. The programme will run for six months, with the possibility of extension, and successful candidates will receive a USD 1,500 monthly stipend as a contribution towards living expenses in Geneva.
The application deadline is September 16, 2026, at midnight Geneva time.
UNIDIR Graduate Professional Programme 2026 at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) |
| Position | Graduate Professional |
| Programme | Integrated Approaches – Gender and Disarmament |
| Location | Geneva, Switzerland |
| Starting date | November 2026 |
| Duration | 6 months, with possibility of extension |
| Working rate | 100% full-time |
| Stipend | USD 1,500 per month |
| Application deadline | September 16, 2026 |
| Deadline time | Midnight Geneva time |
| Experience required | Professional work experience is not required |
| Language | Fluency in English required |
| Application method | Email application in PDF format |
| Application email | unidir.recruitment@un.org |
| Subject line | UNIDIR GPP – IntApp (Geneva) |
About the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research
The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) is a voluntarily funded and autonomous institution within the United Nations system.
UNIDIR is one of the few policy research institutes in the world dedicated specifically to issues surrounding disarmament and international security. Based in Geneva, the institute conducts research, generates knowledge and facilitates dialogue and action on critical security challenges.
Its work helps the international community develop practical and innovative approaches to some of the most important issues affecting global peace and security.
The Graduate Professional opportunity therefore provides an opportunity to gain experience in an international policy environment while working alongside professionals engaged in research, multilateral affairs and disarmament-related programmes.
About the Integrated Approaches – Gender and Disarmament Programme
The Graduate Professional will work within UNIDIR’s Integrated Approaches – Gender and Disarmament Programme.
The programme focuses on generating policy-relevant knowledge and providing multilateral practitioners with practical tools that can help them incorporate a gender perspective into their work.
The programme also supports youth engagement across different areas of arms control and disarmament.
This makes the position particularly relevant for candidates who want to explore the connections between:
- Gender and international security.
- Youth and disarmament.
- Arms control.
- International peace and security.
- Multilateral diplomacy.
- United Nations policy.
- International relations.
- Political science.
- International law.
- Gender studies.
- Conventional arms control.
- Policy research and analysis.
What Will the Graduate Professional Do?
The selected Graduate Professional will support the work of the Integrated Approaches – Gender and Disarmament Programme under the supervision of the Head of Programme.
The responsibilities combine research, programme support, communications, coordination and administrative work.
1. Conduct Background Research
One of the central responsibilities will be conducting background research to support the programme’s activities.
This may involve gathering relevant information, reviewing existing materials, identifying useful evidence and helping programme staff prepare for research and policy activities.
Candidates should therefore be comfortable with research, information gathering and analytical work.
2. Support Programme Activities
The Graduate Professional will assist with planning and implementing programme activities.
These activities may include:
- Meetings.
- Workshops.
- Conferences.
- Field missions.
- Other programme-related activities.
This responsibility provides practical exposure to how international programmes are organized and delivered.
3. Support Communication and Coordination
The position also involves day-to-day communication and coordination responsibilities.
The successful candidate may be required to help ensure that information is communicated effectively, stakeholders are coordinated and programme activities are properly organized.
Strong written and oral communication skills are therefore important.
4. Provide Administrative Support
The Graduate Professional will also contribute to administrative tasks required by programme staff.
Applicants should therefore be comfortable managing multiple responsibilities, keeping track of deadlines and supporting organizational processes.
5. Perform Other Programme-Related Tasks
The Graduate Professional may be assigned other tasks as required by programme staff.
This means that adaptability and willingness to support different aspects of the programme will be important.
Key Skills and Interests Required
UNIDIR is looking for a candidate with a combination of research, communication, organizational and technical skills.
Research and Presentation Skills
Applicants should demonstrate strong research and presentation abilities.
The role requires the ability to gather information, understand complex issues and communicate findings effectively.
Strong Writing and Synthesis Skills
The Graduate Professional should be able to transform information into concise, high-quality written briefs.
This is particularly important in an international policy environment, where large amounts of information often need to be synthesized into clear and useful documents.
Organizational and Coordination Skills
The position requires the ability to manage multiple tasks and responsibilities.
Candidates should demonstrate that they can:
- Prioritize competing responsibilities.
- Organize work effectively.
- Manage deadlines.
- Coordinate activities.
- Monitor progress.
- Adjust plans when circumstances change.
Communication and Teamwork
Strong interpersonal and communication skills are required.
The successful candidate will work with colleagues and stakeholders from different national, cultural and professional backgrounds.
The ability to collaborate respectfully and communicate clearly is therefore essential.
Computer and Design Skills
Applicants should be proficient in standard software applications.
In particular, the position requires proficiency with:
- Microsoft Word.
- Microsoft Excel.
- Microsoft PowerPoint.
- Canva.
- InDesign.
Experience with these tools can be especially valuable for preparing presentations, written materials, visual communications and programme documents.
Interest in International Peace and Security
Applicants should have a genuine interest in issues related to:
- International peace and security.
- Disarmament.
- Gender.
- Youth engagement.
- Arms control.
- United Nations work.
Candidates with an academic or professional interest in these areas may be particularly well suited to the opportunity.
UN Core Values and Required Competencies
The Graduate Professional is expected to demonstrate the core values of the United Nations.
These include:
- Professionalism
- Integrity
- Respect for diversity
In addition, candidates are expected to demonstrate several key competencies.
Communication
The successful candidate should be able to identify the information needs of different audiences and adapt communication accordingly.
This includes:
- Writing clearly and concisely.
- Communicating effectively in speech and writing.
- Sharing relevant information.
- Keeping colleagues and stakeholders informed.
- Understanding the needs of different audiences.
Teamwork
Candidates should have strong interpersonal skills and be able to work collaboratively with people from different national and cultural backgrounds.
The ability to contribute positively to a team while respecting different perspectives is important in a United Nations environment.
Planning and Organizing
The role requires effective time management and planning.
Candidates should be able to:
- Use time efficiently.
- Anticipate potential risks.
- Plan for contingencies.
- Monitor progress.
- Adjust plans when necessary.
- Ensure that assignments are completed effectively.
Creativity
UNIDIR also values creativity and innovative thinking.
Candidates should be willing to:
- Suggest improvements.
- Explore new approaches.
- Offer alternative solutions.
- Challenge conventional ways of approaching problems.
- Identify new ways to improve programmes or services.
Client Orientation
The Graduate Professional should consider the people and stakeholders receiving services as clients and seek to understand their perspectives.
This requires an ability to listen, understand different viewpoints and incorporate those perspectives into one’s work.
Education Requirements
Applicants must satisfy one of the programme’s graduate-level education requirements.
Candidates must either:
- Be enrolled in a graduate school programme, meaning a second university degree or equivalent, or a higher-level programme; or
- Have already graduated with a qualifying second university degree and, if selected, commence the Graduate Professional Programme within one year of graduation.
This makes the opportunity particularly relevant to current graduate students and recent graduates.
Preferred Academic Backgrounds
Although the programme has a broader eligibility framework, UNIDIR states that preference will be given to applicants with postgraduate qualifications relevant to the programme’s thematic areas.
Relevant academic fields include:
- International relations.
- Political science.
- International law.
- Gender studies.
- Disarmament-related fields.
- Other relevant areas connected to gender, youth and disarmament.
Candidates from related disciplines may therefore benefit from clearly explaining how their academic background connects with the programme.
Is Previous Work Experience Required?
Professional work experience is not required to participate in the Graduate Professional Programme.
This is an important feature for students and recent graduates who may not yet have extensive professional experience.
However, demonstrated experience or interest in conventional arms control will be considered an asset.
Applicants should therefore use their application to demonstrate relevant academic research, volunteer activities, internships, projects, publications, coursework or other experiences that show genuine interest in disarmament and international security.
Other Eligibility Requirements
In addition to the educational requirements, applicants should meet several other expectations.
Candidates should:
- Be computer literate.
- Have experience or competence with standard software applications.
- Be comfortable using Microsoft Office tools.
- Have experience with graphic design tools such as Canva or InDesign.
- Demonstrate a strong interest in the work of the United Nations.
- Demonstrate personal commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter.
- Be able to interact successfully with people from different cultural backgrounds and belief systems.
- Demonstrate willingness to understand and tolerate differing opinions and perspectives.
English Language Requirement
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is required.
Applicants should therefore be able to communicate effectively in English and produce clear professional written materials.
Knowledge of at least one additional official United Nations language is considered an asset, although it is not stated as a mandatory requirement for the advertised position.
Stipend and Programme Duration
The Graduate Professional position offers a USD 1,500 monthly stipend as a contribution towards living expenses in Geneva.
The programme is:
- Full-time at 100%.
- Six months in duration.
- Scheduled to begin in November 2026.
- Potentially extendable beyond the initial six-month period.
Applicants should note that the stipend is described as a contribution to living expenses rather than as a full salary.
Important Stipend Rule
Successful candidates who already receive a stipend from another source, such as an educational institution, will have their stipend topped up to USD 1,500 per month.
This means that candidates receiving another qualifying stipend should not automatically assume they will receive an additional full USD 1,500 on top of their existing support.
Medical Insurance and Health Requirements
Graduate Professional applicants must provide proof of valid medical insurance coverage for the entire period of the programme.
Selected candidates must also provide a medical certificate of good health before beginning the programme.
The United Nations states that it does not accept responsibility for the medical insurance of the Graduate Professional or for costs arising from injury, illness or death that may occur during the programme.
Applicants should therefore take the medical insurance requirement seriously when considering the opportunity.
Screening Questions
As part of the application process, candidates must provide brief responses to several screening questions.
Each response should be 250 characters or less.
Screening Question 1: Education
Applicants must explain how they meet the graduate programme requirement.
They should state:
- Their latest or current educational qualification.
- Type of degree.
- Field of study.
- Institution.
- Country.
- Starting date.
- Expected completion date, where applicable.
Candidates should make sure this response clearly establishes that they are either currently enrolled in a graduate programme or meet the recent-graduate requirement.
Screening Question 2: English Fluency
Applicants must address their fluency in English, both written and oral.
The response should clearly communicate their ability to work professionally in English.
Screening Question 3: Software Skills
Applicants should explain their skills with standard software applications.
Particular attention should be given to:
- Microsoft Word.
- Microsoft Excel.
- Microsoft PowerPoint.
- Canva.
- InDesign.
Candidates should be specific rather than simply stating that they are “computer literate.”
Screening Question 4: Organization and Coordination
Applicants should explain their ability to organize and coordinate multiple tasks.
Examples may include academic projects, research assignments, events, internships, volunteer activities, work responsibilities or other situations where they successfully managed competing priorities.
Screening Question 5: Written Outputs
Candidates should list relevant written outputs they have published and provide links where applicable.
Relevant outputs could include publications, research papers, policy briefs, articles or other substantial written work that demonstrates research and writing ability.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the required application materials in accordance with UNIDIR’s instructions.
The application should include:
1. Cover Letter
Applicants must provide a cover letter explaining their suitability and interest in the Graduate Professional position.
A strong cover letter should connect the candidate’s:
- Academic background.
- Research interests.
- Skills.
- Relevant experience.
- Interest in disarmament.
- Interest in gender and youth engagement.
- Interest in the United Nations.
- Career goals.
to the responsibilities of the position.
2. Inspira Personal History Profile
Applicants must submit a PDF copy of an Inspira Personal History Profile (PHP).
UNIDIR directs applicants to the Inspira guide for instructions on preparing the profile.
3. Screening Question Responses
Applicants must provide brief responses to all five screening questions.
Each response must be no more than 250 characters.
Candidates should therefore be precise and avoid unnecessary background information.
How to Apply for the UNIDIR Graduate Professional Programme
Applications must be submitted by email.
Applicants should prepare their required documents as PDF attachments and send them to:
The application email should use the following subject line:
UNIDIR GPP – IntApp (Geneva)
The application materials should be submitted before the deadline.
Application Deadline
The deadline for the UNIDIR Graduate Professional position is:
September 16, 2026
The closing time is:
Midnight Geneva time
Applicants should not wait until the final hours to submit their applications, particularly because the application requires multiple documents and specific screening responses.
Important Application Instruction: AI-Generated Applications
One of the most important instructions in the vacancy notice is that:
Incomplete applications and applications generated with artificial intelligence will not be processed.
Applicants should therefore carefully follow UNIDIR’s instructions and ensure that their application materials genuinely represent their own qualifications, experiences, writing and responses.
Candidates should also ensure that all required documents are included and properly formatted before submission.
What Makes This Opportunity Valuable?
The UNIDIR Graduate Professional Programme can provide valuable exposure to the work of an international United Nations institution.
For a graduate student or recent graduate interested in international affairs, the opportunity can provide practical experience in areas such as:
- Policy research.
- Disarmament.
- Arms control.
- Gender and security.
- Youth engagement.
- International peace and security.
- Programme implementation.
- Multilateral work.
- International organizations.
- Research communication.
- Conference and workshop coordination.
The combination of research and programme responsibilities can also allow the successful candidate to develop skills beyond academic study.
Who Should Consider Applying?
This opportunity may be particularly relevant to graduate students and recent graduates who are interested in building careers in:
- International organizations.
- Diplomacy.
- International relations.
- Peace and security.
- Disarmament.
- Arms control.
- Gender and security.
- Youth policy.
- International law.
- Policy research.
- Multilateral affairs.
- United Nations programmes.
Candidates who have strong writing, research, communication and organizational skills may be particularly competitive.
How to Prepare a Strong Application
Applicants should avoid treating the application as a generic graduate opportunity. The position has a clear thematic focus, and candidates should demonstrate genuine interest in the programme.
1. Connect Your Academic Background to the Programme
Explain how your degree and research interests relate to gender, youth, international security, disarmament, arms control or another relevant area.
2. Demonstrate Research Ability
Highlight research projects, dissertations, publications, policy papers or other work that demonstrates your ability to investigate and synthesize information.
3. Highlight Your Writing Skills
Because the position requires concise, high-quality written briefs, applicants should demonstrate their ability to communicate complex ideas clearly.
4. Demonstrate Organizational Skills
Use specific examples showing how you have managed several responsibilities, coordinated events or projects, or worked under deadlines.
5. Highlight Relevant Software Skills
Do not simply state that you know Microsoft Office.
Where appropriate, demonstrate your experience with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Canva and InDesign.
6. Explain Your Interest in the United Nations
The position specifically requires a demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter.
Applicants should make this connection clear.
7. Demonstrate Cross-Cultural Communication
Because UNIDIR operates in a highly international environment, applicants should highlight experiences working with people from different backgrounds, cultures or perspectives.
8. Keep Screening Responses Within the Character Limit
The 250-character limit is strict.
Candidates should write concise, information-rich responses and check the character count before submitting.
Location of the Programme
The Graduate Professional position is based in Geneva, Switzerland.
Geneva is an important international hub and hosts numerous international organizations and diplomatic institutions, including United Nations entities.
Working at UNIDIR therefore provides exposure to an international policy environment closely connected to global peace and security discussions.
Important Facts About the Opportunity
Before applying, candidates should remember the following:
- The position is based in Geneva.
- It is full-time at 100%.
- The programme begins in November 2026.
- The initial duration is six months.
- An extension may be possible.
- A USD 1,500 monthly stipend is offered as a contribution to living expenses.
- Professional work experience is not required.
- Graduate-level enrollment or a qualifying recent graduate status is required.
- English fluency is mandatory.
- Knowledge of another official UN language is an asset.
- Medical insurance is required for the programme period.
- A medical certificate of good health is required before commencement.
- Five screening questions must be answered.
- Each screening response must be 250 characters or less.
- A cover letter is required.
- An Inspira Personal History Profile in PDF format is required.
- Applications must be submitted by email.
- The application deadline is September 16, 2026.
- The closing time is midnight Geneva time.
- Incomplete applications will not be processed.
- Applications generated with artificial intelligence will not be processed.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Visit HERE to learn more about the UNIDIR Graduate Professional Programme 2026 in Geneva.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UNIDIR Graduate Professional Programme?
It is a graduate-level professional opportunity within the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research, allowing eligible graduate students and recent graduates to support research and programme activities.
Where is the position based?
The position is based in Geneva, Switzerland.
When does the programme start?
The selected Graduate Professional is expected to start in November 2026.
How long is the programme?
The initial programme lasts six months, with the possibility of extension.
How much is the stipend?
The advertised stipend is USD 1,500 per month as a contribution towards living expenses in Geneva.
Do I need professional work experience?
No. Professional work experience is not required.
However, demonstrated experience or interest in conventional arms control is considered an asset.
What degree do I need?
Applicants must either be enrolled in a graduate school programme or have graduated with a qualifying second university degree and, if selected, commence the programme within one year of graduation.
Is English required?
Yes. Fluency in English, both oral and written, is required.
Knowledge of another official UN language is an asset.
Do I need to know Microsoft Office?
Yes. Applicants must be computer literate and demonstrate skills in standard software applications, including Microsoft Office tools. Canva and InDesign skills are also required.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline is September 16, 2026, at midnight Geneva time.
How should I submit my application?
Applications should be sent as PDF email attachments to unidir.recruitment@un.org with the subject line “UNIDIR GPP – IntApp (Geneva).”
Can I submit an AI-generated application?
According to the vacancy notice, applications generated with artificial intelligence will not be processed. Applicants should therefore follow UNIDIR’s instructions carefully and submit authentic application materials.
Will everyone who applies be contacted?
No. UNIDIR states that because of the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Shortlisted candidates may also be asked to complete a further assessment.
Final Application Checklist
Before submitting your application, make sure you have:
- Confirmed that you meet the graduate-level education requirement.
- Confirmed your eligibility as a current graduate student or qualifying recent graduate.
- Prepared your cover letter.
- Completed your Inspira Personal History Profile.
- Converted the required documents to PDF format.
- Prepared responses to all five screening questions.
- Kept each screening response within the 250-character limit.
- Clearly demonstrated your English proficiency.
- Highlighted your Microsoft Office, Canva and InDesign skills.
- Demonstrated your research, writing and presentation abilities.
- Explained your organizational and coordination skills.
- Listed relevant published written outputs and links where applicable.
- Confirmed your interest in international peace and security, disarmament, gender, youth engagement and UN work.
- Ensured your application is complete.
- Used the correct email subject line: UNIDIR GPP – IntApp (Geneva).
- Sent the application to unidir.recruitment@un.org.
- Submitted the application before September 16, 2026, at midnight Geneva time.
- Reviewed UNIDIR’s instruction concerning applications generated with artificial intelligence.
Official Programme Information
Applicants should carefully review the official vacancy information and UNIDIR’s application instructions before submitting their materials.
View the official UNIDIR Graduate Professional vacancy
Candidates should also consult the official Inspira guidance when preparing their Personal History Profile.
Access the Inspira platform and guide
Conclusion
The UNIDIR Graduate Professional Programme 2026 in Geneva offers an important professional development opportunity for graduate students and qualifying recent graduates who want to build experience in international peace and security, disarmament, gender, youth engagement and United Nations affairs.
The position combines research with practical programme responsibilities, including background research, meetings, workshops, conferences, field missions, communication, coordination and administrative support. It is therefore particularly suitable for candidates who want to develop both analytical and practical skills in an international policy environment.
The opportunity does not require previous professional work experience, making it potentially accessible to qualified graduate students and recent graduates who can demonstrate strong academic preparation, research and writing skills, organizational ability, computer literacy and a genuine interest in the work of the United Nations.
The position is based in Geneva, Switzerland, begins in November 2026, lasts six months with a possibility of extension, and provides a USD 1,500 monthly stipend as a contribution to living expenses.
Applicants should pay close attention to the application requirements. A cover letter, Inspira Personal History Profile and concise responses to five screening questions are required. Each screening response must be no more than 250 characters. Applicants must also meet the English-language requirement and demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Office, Canva and InDesign.
Most importantly, applications must be submitted before September 16, 2026, at midnight Geneva time. Candidates should prepare and submit their applications early, ensure that all required documents are complete, and carefully follow UNIDIR’s explicit instruction regarding applications generated with artificial intelligence.
Discover more global Internship and UN opportunities on OFY.
