Senior Researcher Artificial Intelligence
UNIDIR is an autonomous United Nations research institute for disarmament, arms control and international security. It currently operates AI-governance research and digital policy tools, including the AI Policy Portal and its Centre of Excellence on AI, Peace and Security.
Investors
About United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research
Established by the United Nations General Assembly, UNIDIR conducts independent research, convenes policy dialogue and develops transparency-oriented tools for Member States and other stakeholders. Its work spans disarmament and international security, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, science and technology, and weapons governance.
Skills
Candidate Availability
Required and preferred rules are kept separate and reflect the wording in the original posting.
About the Role
You will lead artificial intelligence research projects and related events for the Centre of Excellence on AI, Peace and Security. You will provide research advice and supervision across programme workstreams, support donor relations, fundraising, reporting, and quality assurance, and mentor junior colleagues. You will advise senior management on relevant developments, manage project delivery, and complete additional assigned duties.
Requirements
- Advanced university degree in international affairs, political science, international law, or a relevant scientific or technical field with a demonstrated policy-and-technology track record
- At least 7 years of professional experience at the intersection of technology, policy, and security
- At least 5 years of progressive research and work experience in technology-related public policy settings on issues associated with artificial intelligence
- Proven record of producing policy-relevant publications
- Successful project management track record
- Proven ability to build relationships with policy partners across civil society, corporate organizations, government, and academia
- Fluency in written and spoken English
- Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, respect for diversity, planning, accountability, teamwork, communication, and performance management
- Provide a list of publications and two writing samples as sole or lead author
Responsibilities
- Lead artificial intelligence research projects and related events
- Support programme workstreams with advice, research support, and supervision
- Support donor relationships, fundraising, internal and external reporting, and quality assurance
- Mentor and coach junior colleagues
- Advise senior management on developments in relevant fields of expertise
- Develop and follow a workplan with the supervisor
- Complete assignments on time and report issues affecting agreed deadlines
- Manage project activities, timelines, milestones, budgets, and research activities
- Travel as required and complete the UN BSAFE course before required travel
Hiring Process
Assessment exercise, which may be followed by a competency-based interview.