Science-Policy Visiting Fellow - Emerging Tech and Verification Processes Job Geneva area,Genf Switzerland,Research/Development

Location: Genf

Overview

Science-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.

The 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.

Note: 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.

Responsibilities

Research and Analysis

Develop 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).
Identify emerging technologies relevant to compliance and verification (e.g., AI, synthetic biology, advanced sensing).
Assess the opportunities, limitations, and risks of applying these technologies across verification functions (detection, monitoring, attribution), including technical, political, and ethical dimensions.
Review and assess findings from previous research efforts in this domain (academic and policy), including the VEREX Committee, in light of current technological developments.
Formulate concrete and forward-looking policy recommendations, including potential technical tools and methodologies that could support future-verification-related approaches.

Science-Policy Engagement

Engage directly with disarmament actors in Geneva (UNODA, UNIDIR, BWC Working Group processes), providing targeted briefings and presentations to inform discussions on strengthening the Convention.
Organize 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.
Attend other workshops and events as appropriate.

Knowledge Development

Develop a relevant academic article building on the fellowship research.
Contribute to internal knowledge-sharing and collaborative activities within UNU-CPR and GSPI.
Support the evolution of the Visiting Fellowship programme as part of the inaugural cohort.

Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Key performance indicators

Timely delivery…