Researcher (Space Security)

About the job

Background

The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) is an autonomous institution within the United Nations that conducts independent research on disarmament and related problems, particularly international security issues. The vision of UNIDIR is a stable and more secure world in which States and people are protected from threats of arms-related violence. The role of UNIDIR is to support Member States, the United Nations and policy and research communities in advancing ideas and actions that contribute to a more sustainable and peaceful world. UNIDIR is based in the Palais des Nations, Geneva.

UNIDIR’s Space Security Programme works to build knowledge and awareness on the international security implications and risks that surround the space domain and the use of space technology and contribute to the efforts of policymakers to keep outer space peaceful and secure for all humankind.

Responsibilities

Working across UNIDIR’s Space Security Programme, the Researcher will perform the following duties under the supervision of the Head of Programme:

1. Conduct research and analysis

• Produce original research and studies related to a wide range of space security related developments (including, but not limited to the space security governance and the space security implications of emerging technologies);
• Design and implement multi-disciplinary and multi-method research approaches;
• Present research findings to internal and external audiences; and
• Design and deliver (or moderate) expert conferences and other events.

2. Project implementation activities

• Contribute to fundraising efforts, including but not limited to drafting grant proposals and cultivating relationships with potential donors and partners
• Organize meetings, seminars and workshops for the Space Security portfolio, including leading on the organisation of the annual Outer Space Security Conference.
• As assigned, produce meeting summaries, reports, briefs and analysis papers from consultations, meetings and events held or attended by UNIDIR on issues relevant to space security;
• Actively engage the diplomatic community, international organizations, and expert NGOs to promote the Programme’s work;
• Monitor and evaluate the implementation of activities;
• Support public communication and outreach to ensure maximum visibility and impact of the work; and
• Support senior leadership’s external engagement through the preparation of briefings and speaking points.

3. Perform other duties as required.

Schedule for the proposed work

A workplan for the duration of the contract will be established within the first two weeks of the contract. The Researcher will have regular communication with the Head of Programmes in order to set assignments within the workplan and monitor progress. The Researcher will inform the Head of Programmes if there are any issues concerning meeting agreed deliverables and deadlines.

The Researcher is to demonstrate the core values of the United Nations: Professionalism, Integrity, and Respect for Diversity.

In addition, in this role, the Research Assistant will demonstrate the following competences:

• Planning & Organizing: develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.
• Accountability: takes ownership of all responsibilities and honours commitments; delivers outputs for which one has responsibility within prescribed time, cost and quality standards; operates in compliance with organizational regulations and rules; supports subordinates, provides oversight and takes responsibility for delegated assignments; takes personal responsibility for his/her own shortcomings and those of the work unit, where applicable.
• Teamwork: works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
• Communication: speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format.

Qualifications and Experience

Education

Advanced university qualification (Master’s degree or equivalent) in international affairs, political science, international law, public administration, disarmament and arms control, international security or a related field is required.

Experience

Required

• Deep knowledge of current international debates and recent developments in space security, including but not limited to the Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space, and the security implications of emerging space technologies.
• A minimum of of five years of progressively responsible experience in international security research, space policy, or disarmament within an international organization, think tank, or academic institution.
• Experience in project management is required, including: developing project activities; monitoring timelines and milestones; implementing activities within budget and on time; managing budgets; conducting follow ups on project activities; preparing and facilitating events; and evaluating and reporting on project activities.
• Proven ability to lead complex research projects, including but not limited to the design of research methodologies, the synthesis of large datasets, and the production of peer‑reviewed publications.

Desirable

• Knowledge of relevant multilateral processes, practices, and organizations, including UN agencies and programmes working in the field of space security.
• A proven track record in resource mobilization and fundraising.
• Knowledge of gender issues or experience with gender mainstreaming in a field relevant to the position.
• Demonstrated experience in the full lifecycle of project management, including but not limited to budget monitoring, timeline oversight, and donor reporting, is desirable.

Language

For this assignment, fluency in English (both written and oral) is required. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is highly desirable.

Assessment

Evaluation of qualified candidates may include a written assessment exercise which may be followed by a competency-based interview.

Travel

The Researcher is required to travel during the course of this assignment. Dates and locations will be determined during implementation of the Programme. The Researcher must complete the UN course BSAFE (online) and provide UNIDIR with a certificate of completion.

Copyright

UNIDIR retains copyright of all documents and the ownership of the intellectual property resulting from all work carried out under this contract. The Researcher warrants that any written work will be original works or that where s/he incorporates copyright material from another source, copyright permission for its use will be obtained. Written output(s) may be attributed to the Researcher.

How to apply

The applicant should submit:

• A cover letter.
• UN Personal History Profile (PHP) created via Inspira.
• List of publications.
• Two writing samples where the candidate is sole or lead author.
• Name and contact details of three references.

Applications should be sent as email attachments, with the subject line “Application: Space Security Researcher (Remote)” to E-Mail schreiben. No applications will be accepted by post. Deadline for submission of applications is 30 April 2026. Job opening will be removed at 11:59 p.m. (Geneva time) on the deadline date.

Please note

Please note that due to the high volume of applications received, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Should you move forward in the process, you may be contacted for further assessment.

UNIDIR promotes the core values of the United Nations: Integrity, Professionalism and Respect for Diversity. Women are encouraged to apply.