Researcher (Science and Technology)

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 Security and Technology Programme (SecTec) is seeking a Researcher to work on new research and other activities to contribute to building knowledge and awareness on the international security implications, risks and opportunities of emerging science and technology developments and innovations. and convene stakeholders to explore ideas and develop new thinking on ways to address them.

Responsibilities

Within UNIDIR’s Security and Technology Programme, the Researcher shall perform the following duties under the supervision of the Head of Programme:

1. Conduct research and analysis:
   • Producing original research and studies related to a wide range of science and technology (S&T) developments, including, but not limited to, enabling technologies such as computing, advanced materials, sensors, and the implications of technology convergence across domains.
   • Design and implement multi-disciplinary and multi-method research approaches.
   • Present research findings to internal and external audiences.
   • Design and deliver (or moderate) expert workshops and panels.
2. Implement S&T portfolio activities, including:
   • Organizing meetings, seminars, and workshops for the S&T portfolio (including, but not limited to, drafting invitations, distribution lists, agenda, logistical notes, as well as substantive preparations for, and facilitation during, events);
   • As assigned, producing meeting summaries, reports, briefs and analysis papers from consultations, meetings and events held or attended by UNIDIR on issues relevant to S&T;
   • Building relationships and securing buy-in on activities from key stakeholders, including funders, partners and beneficiaries; and
   • Monitoring and evaluating implementation of activities.
   • Supporting public communication and outreach to ensure maximum visibility and impact of the work.
   • Support senior leadership 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 Programme in order to set assignments within the workplan and monitor progress.

Competencies

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

In addition, in this role, the Researcher 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 to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

Qualifications and Experience

Education

Required:

• Advanced university (Master’s degree or equivalent) in international affairs, political science, international law; OR
• Advanced university (Master’s degree or equivalent) in a relevant scientific or technical field, with demonstrated track-record of work at the intersection of policy and technology.

Desirable:

• Doctorate or equivalent qualification in international affairs, political science, international law OR a relevant scientific or technical field.

 Experience

• At least 5 years of progressive relevant work experience in tech-related public policy settings such as in governments, think tanks, research institutes, corporate policy environments, or public interest groups on issues closely or directly associated with science and technology is required.
• 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.
• A proven track record of producing policy-relevant publications is required (Please include list of publications and writing sample as described in the instructions below).
• Knowledge of relevant multilateral processes and practices is desirable.
• Experience in international, multistakeholder settings, including convening stakeholders with differing perspectives to deliberate complex issues is desirable.
• Experience in organizing large events (100+ participants) is desirable.
• Knowledge of gender issues or experience with gender mainstreaming in a field relevant to the position is desirable.
• A proven track record in resource mobilization/fundraising is desirable.

Language

For the position advertised, fluency in English (both oral and written) is required. Knowledge of French and/or other official UN languages is desirable.

Assessment

Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by 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.