The UNIDIR Middle East WMD-Free Zone Graduate Professional position is a temporary opportunity for graduate students and recent university graduates. Based in Geneva or available remotely, the role supports research and project implementation. The initial programme period is six months, with a possible extension.
Quick Overview
Official Title: Graduate Professional — Middle East WMD-Free Zone
Programme Provider: UNIDIR
Working Arrangement: Geneva-based or remote
Occupational Rate: 100 percent, negotiable
Initial Period: 6 months, with possible extension
Monthly Stipend: USD 1,331 in person or USD 665.50 remotely
Closing Date: 4 June 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Geneva time
UNIDIR Middle East WMD-Free Zone Position
The Graduate Professional will work with UNIDIR’s Middle East Weapons of Mass Destruction Free Zone Project. The project promotes non-proliferation, disarmament, peaceful cooperation, verification, and safeguards.
The successful applicant will support the Programme Lead and project staff. The expected starting date is 1 September 2026, although this is negotiable.
What the Role Involves
The Graduate Professional will contribute to:
• Background research
• Programme activities such as meetings, workshops, conferences, and field missions
• Administrative project support
• Communication with project partners
• Additional tasks required by project staff
Stipend and Participation Costs
The programme provides a monthly living expense contribution:
✓ USD 1,331 for an in-person Graduate Professional
✓ USD 665.50 for a remote Graduate Professional
Candidates already receiving a stipend from another source will receive a top-up to the relevant amount.
Graduate Professionals or their sponsoring institutions remain responsible for travel, visa, accommodation, and living costs. Valid medical insurance is also required for the complete programme period.
Who Can Apply?
Candidates must satisfy one of the education conditions below:
• Current enrollment in a graduate school programme, such as a second university degree, equivalent qualification, or higher-level programme
• Completion of a first or second university degree, with the ability to start the programme within one year of graduation
UNIDIR gives preference to applicants with postgraduate qualifications related to the project. Examples include international affairs, strategic or security studies, and international law, especially where these fields relate to the Middle East.
Professional Background and Skills
Previous professional work experience is not required. Experience or a demonstrated interest in non-proliferation and arms control in the Middle East is an asset.
Candidates should have:
• Strong research and presentation skills
• The ability to produce concise written briefs
• Organization and coordination skills
• Effective written and oral communication abilities
• Teamwork and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• An interest in international peace and security, disarmament, Middle East affairs, and the United Nations
Applicants should also be able to work with individuals from different cultural backgrounds and beliefs.
Language Requirements
Fluency in written and spoken English is required.
Knowledge of another official United Nations language or a language spoken in the Middle East is considered an asset.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must prepare:
• A cover letter
• An Inspira Personal History Profile in PDF format titled SURNAME_Name_PHP
Applications must be emailed to mewmdfz-unidir@un.org. The required email subject line is:
UNIDIR Middle East WMD-Free Zone project GPP Application
UNIDIR will not process incomplete files, submissions in a format other than PHP, or applications generated with artificial intelligence.
Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. Women are strongly encouraged to apply.
Medical Documentation
Before starting the programme, the selected candidate must provide:
• Proof of valid medical insurance for the complete programme period
• A medical certificate confirming good health
Important Date
The application deadline is 4 June 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Geneva time.
