ph3Overview /h3pScience-Policy Visiting Fellow - Emerging Tech and Verification Processes (BWC/UNODA/Unidir) – United Nations University (UNU). This is a full-time position based in Geneva requiring a minimum number of days in the office and availability for in-person meetings. Work from a remote location is not possible. UNU-CPR and GSPI will support visa application and travel costs. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. /ppThe Fellowship is part of a joint initiative between UNU-CPR and the Geneva Science-Policy Interface (GSPI) to strengthen the science-policy interface in Geneva, connecting scientists, research institutions, and private sector actors to the diplomatic community. In , UNU-CPR and GSPI offer opportunities for greater Global South engagement in the research and policy processes in International Geneva by hosting two Visiting Fellows from the Global South to work on research projects at the intersection of science and policy. The present Fellowship will support one of two identified projects: exploratory research on emerging technologies and bio-risk monitoring with the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC). The BWC prohibits the development, production, and stockpiling of biological weapons and is under discussion within the Working Group on the Strengthening of the Convention, including possible mechanisms on science and technology, international cooperation and assistance, and a potential Open-Ended Working Group on compliance and verification. Advances in emerging technologies (including AI, synthetic biology, advanced sensing, data analytics, quantum technologies, and distributed systems such as blockchain) are reshaping the biological risk landscape and the technical possibilities for monitoring relevant activities. The fellowship will explore how such technologies could contribute to compliance and verification in the BWC context while incorporating Global South perspectives on biosecurity governance. The programme seeks collaborative, entrepreneurial researchers who can engage with diverse stakeholders across diplomatic, scientific, and NGO communities. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. /ppstrongNote: /strong This is a joint UNU-CPR/GSPI initiative to host two Visiting Fellows from the Global South to work on research projects at the intersection of science and policy in International Geneva. /ph3Responsibilities /h3olliResearch and AnalysisulliDevelop an analytical, policy-relevant report on how emerging technologies (including AI, synthetic biology, advanced sensing, and distributed systems) could contribute to compliance and verification in the context of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC). /liliIdentify emerging technologies relevant to compliance and verification (e.g., AI, synthetic biology, advanced sensing). /liliAssess the opportunities, limitations, and risks of applying these technologies across verification functions (detection, monitoring, attribution), including technical, political, and ethical dimensions. /liliReview and assess findings from previous research efforts in this domain (academic and policy), including the VEREX Committee, in light of current technological developments. /liliFormulate concrete and forward-looking policy recommendations, including potential technical tools and methodologies that could support future-verification-related approaches. /li /ul /liliScience-Policy EngagementulliEngage directly with disarmament actors in Geneva (UNODA, UNIDIR, BWC Working Group processes), providing targeted briefings and presentations to inform discussions on strengthening the Convention. /liliOrganize and facilitate 1–2 workshops bringing together scientific experts, diplomats, and civil society actors to present and refine research findings, engaging Geneva's broader science-policy community. /liliAttend other workshops and events as appropriate. /li /ul /liliKnowledge DevelopmentulliDevelop a relevant academic article building on the fellowship research. /liliContribute to internal knowledge-sharing and collaborative activities within UNU-CPR and GSPI. /liliSupport the evolution of the Visiting Fellowship programme as part of the inaugural cohort. /li /ul /liliPerform other duties as assigned by supervisor. /li /olh3Key performance indicators /h3ulliTimely delivery of a high-quality analytical report on emerging technologies and BWC verification. /liliQuality, relevance, and uptake of policy recommendations and briefings in BWC Working Group discussions. /liliEffectiveness of stakeholder engagement, including workshops and interactions with Geneva-based actors. /liliStrength of collaboration with UN entities, scientific experts, and policy stakeholders. /liliContribution to science–policy dialogue and knowledge outputs (including academic publication). /li /ulh3Competencies /h3h3Values /h3ulliInclusion — take action to create an environment of dignity and respect for all, regardless of identity. /liliIntegrity — act ethically, upholding UN standards and taking prompt action in case of unprofessional conduct. /liliHumility — demonstrate self-awareness and willingness to learn from others. /liliHumanity — act according to the purposes of the United Nations: peace, dignity and equality on a healthy planet. /li /ulh3Behaviours /h3ulliConnect and collaborate — build positive relationships to advance UN work and operate as One UN. /liliAnalyse and plan — use diverse data to understand problems, inform decisions, and plan action. /liliDeliver results with positive impact — be accountable for delivering results and making a difference. /liliLearn and develop — pursue personal learning and contribute to others’ development. /liliAdapt and innovate — demonstrate flexibility and novel thinking. /li /ulh3Qualifications /h3olliEducation and certificationulliA PhD in a relevant field is strongly preferred but may be substituted by a master’s degree and professional experience. /liliRelevant fields may include Life sciences, Physical sciences or engineering, Data and computational fields, Social sciences. /li /ul /liliSkills and experienceulliRequired: Demonstrated experience of at least three (3) years in policy-relevant research; experience engaging with policy processes; ability to produce analytical and policy-oriented outputs for non-technical audiences; ability to work independently and with diverse stakeholders; experience in interdisciplinary environments. /liliDesirable: Familiarity with biological risk/biosecurity/non-proliferation frameworks (including the BWC); ability to communicate complex technical concepts to policy audiences; experience organizing multi-stakeholder dialogues/workshops. /li /ul /liliLanguage RequirementsulliProfessional level fluency in English is required. Knowledge of another UN official working language is an asset. /li /ul /liliOther RequirementsulliOpen to Global South citizenship as per the fellowship eligibility criteria. /li /ul /li /olpFor complete job description and to apply, visit: /ph3View Similar Jobs /h3pWas this job of interest to you? Subscribe to Value Membership to get access to similar jobs and hundreds of other member-only jobs. /p /p #J-18808-Ljbffr
