DCAF – Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance is dedicated to improving the security of states and their people within a framework of democratic governance, the rule of law, respect for human rights, and gender equality. Since its founding in 2000, DCAF has contributed to making peace and development more sustainable by assisting partner states, and international actors supporting these states, to improve the governance of their security sector through inclusive and participatory reforms. It creates innovative knowledge products, promotes norms and good practices, provides legal and policy advice and supports capacity‐building of both state and non‐state security sector stakeholders.

DCAF’s Foundation Council members represent over 50 countries and the Canton of Geneva. Active in over 70 countries, DCAF is internationally recognized as one of the world's leading centres of excellence for security sector governance (SSG) and security sector reform (SSR). DCAF is guided by the principles of neutrality, impartiality, local ownership, inclusive participation, and gender equality. For more information visit www.dcaf.ch and follow us on Twitter @DCAF_Geneva.

The Policy and Research Division (PRDiv) produces empirically grounded and policy-oriented comparative research on global topics relating to security sector governance and reform (SSG/R). This cutting-edge research bridges the gap between policy and practice and is driven by the demand of our national and international partners. For more information, please visit PRDiv’s website.

The Division has 16 full- and part-time staff members and we are looking for a highly motivated and dynamic individual to join us as:

Junior Project Officer (one position at 50%)

• Policy and Research Division
• Location: Geneva
• Starting date: as soon as possible
• Duration: one year contract, with possibility of extension

The role

Under the supervision of the Principal Programme Manager (PMM) leading the projects – (1) “SSR Knowledge products” and (2) “Global Security Challenges” (with a focus on Climate Change), the Junior Project Officer (JPO) will support the day-to-day development, implementation, and monitoring of the above portfolios, including research, drafting, logistical and administrative tasks.

Key areas of operation:

Project “SSR Knowledge products”:

• Contribute to research and drafting of SSR Backgrounders, as well as assist in the editorial and publication process of the SSR Backgrounder Series.
• Contribute to designing Call for Papers for SSR Papers, as well as assist in the editorial and publication process of the SSR Paper Series.

Project “Climate Change and SSG/R” (Under “Global Security Challenges” Portfolio):

• Contribute to research on the nexus between climate change and SSG/R, generating in-depth empirical evidence in this field, as well as policy solutions for adapting and strengthening SSG/R in the face of climate change (including other global security challenges).
• Provide support to the development of publication/s pertaining to this thematic portfolio.

General:

• Support the dissemination and monitoring of the use of knowledge products pertaining to both projects.
• Prepare conference/ webinar reports, concept notes, talking points, presentations and other documents as requested.
• Deliver or contribute to delivery of administrative, budget and logistics support, including the hosting of events.
• Perform other tasks as required.

Your experience and skills

• Currently enrolled or having completed an MA degree, as well as current or prospective PhD student in the Lake Geneva region in a relevant field, such as international relations; political science; security, peace, human rights law or conflict studies; development studies or other relevant tracks.
• Proven excellent analytical and writing skills, while experience with research and publication projects is considered an asset.
• Knowledge of and experience in using research methods and techniques (including use of knowledge management and research software, e.g., Citavi, MaxQDA, literature databases, etc.) is required.
• Knowledge of climate and environmental politics is required.
• Knowledge or strong interest in either international organizations or a world region (country focus) is required.
• Knowledge of global security challenges, including an interest in security sector governance and reform is considered an asset.
• Well versed in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.), familiarity with IT systems (e.g., SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, etc.) is considered a strong asset.
• Ability to work independently, be proactive and solution oriented.
• Attention to details, very good organisational skills and ability to deliver on time.
• Flexibility and willingness to carry out administrative tasks as required.
• Proven excellent communication skills in English, while professional working proficiency of French (or other UN languages) is considered an asset.
• Swiss or EU citizenship or a valid work permit for Switzerland at the time of application is a pre-requisite.

We offer

• A rewarding, dynamic and challenging work experience.
• The chance to be part of a multicultural team of supportive, hardworking and values-driven people.
• The chance to contribute to improving security of states and their people within a framework of democratic governance, the rule of law, and respect for human rights.

If you think you are a good match for DCAF and the position advertised, please send your application to prdrecruitment@dcaf.ch by 31 July 2022 with the subject heading Junior Project Officer PRDiv- Knowledge Products & Climate Change, enclosing:

• a one-page motivational statement in English describing your relevant experience and what you can bring to DCAF
• a concise CV (maximum two pages)

DCAF is committed to equality of opportunity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates regardless of sex, age, disability, gender identity, religion, or ethnicity.

Individuals who seek to serve with DCAF in any individual capacity will be required, if short-listed, to complete a self-attestation stating that they have not committed or been convicted of any criminal offence and have not been involved, by act or omission, in the commission of any violation of international human rights law or international humanitarian law.