Applications are now open for the UNIDIR Graduate Professional (Space Security) Programme 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland. The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) is seeking two Graduate Professionals to join its Space Security Programme. This is an excellent opportunity for graduate students and recent graduates interested in international security, outer space governance, disarmament, and United Nations policy research.
The programme offers participants hands-on experience working with UN experts on space security research, policy development, international conferences, and multilateral processes. Selected candidates will receive a monthly stipend and gain valuable professional experience in an international working environment.
Details About the UNIDIR Graduate Professional (Space Security) Programme 2026
- Host Country: Switzerland
- Location: Geneva
- Host Organization: United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR)
- Programme: Graduate Professional (Space Security)
- Number of Positions: 2
- Employment Type: Temporary
- Duration: 6 Months (with the possibility of extension)
- Starting Date: 1 July 2026 or as soon as possible
- Working Schedule: Full-time (100%)
- Application Deadline: 30 May 2026
Financial Benefits
Selected Graduate Professionals will receive:
- Monthly stipend of USD 1,331 for in-person participation.
- Monthly stipend of USD 665.50 for remote participation.
- Practical experience within a United Nations research institute.
- Opportunities to work with international experts in space security.
- Exposure to global policy discussions on peace and disarmament.
Note: Participants are responsible for travel, visa, accommodation, health insurance, and living expenses in Geneva.
Programme Responsibilities
Graduate Professionals will assist the Space Security Programme by:
- Conducting background research for space security projects.
- Supporting the development of the Space Security Portal and PAROS timeline.
- Assisting with the organization of in-person, hybrid, and virtual events.
- Supporting the Outer Space Security Conference.
- Monitoring international space security and multilateral negotiations.
- Assisting with publications throughout the publication process.
- Supporting programme planning and implementation.
- Contributing to communication and administrative activities.
- Performing additional tasks assigned by programme staff.
Areas of Interest
Applicants with an interest in the following fields are encouraged to apply:
- Space Security
- International Relations
- International Security
- Political Science
- International Law
- Disarmament
- Peace and Security
- Outer Space Governance
- Gender and Security
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements:
- Be currently enrolled in a graduate degree programme (Master's degree or higher); or
- Have completed a graduate degree within the last year and begin the programme within one year of graduation.
Preference will be given to applicants with academic backgrounds in:
- International Relations
- Political Science
- International Law
- International Security
- Space Security
- Related disciplines
Skills and Experience
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Strong research and analytical skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
- Organizational and multitasking skills.
- Teamwork and interpersonal skills.
- Interest in United Nations activities and international peace and security.
- Ability to work in multicultural environments.
Professional work experience is not required, although relevant research, event organization, or administrative experience will be considered an advantage.
Computer Skills
Applicants should have knowledge of:
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Knowledge of the following tools is considered an asset:
- Zoom
- Trello
- Canva
- Adobe InDesign
Language Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Fluency in English (spoken and written).
Knowledge of another official United Nations language is considered an advantage.
Eligible Nationalities
Applicants from all countries who meet the programme requirements are eligible to apply.
Women are strongly encouraged to submit applications.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Inspira Personal History Form (PHP)
- Cover Letter
- Responses to the screening questions
- All documents combined into a single PDF file
Application Process
To apply:
- Complete the Inspira Personal History Form (PHP).
- Prepare a cover letter.
- Answer all required screening questions.
- Combine all documents into one PDF file.
- Name the file using the format: SURNAME_Name_PHP-CL.
- Email the application to unidir.recruitment@un.org.
- Use the subject line: UNIDIR Space Security GPP Application.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
Important: Applications generated using Artificial Intelligence (AI), incomplete applications, or applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the UNIDIR Graduate Professional (Space Security) Programme 2026 is:
30 May 2026
Official Call: https://unidir.org/job/graduate-professional-space-security-2-positions/
