Remote UNIDIR Space Security Research Fellowship 2026

Job Description

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The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) is now accepting applications for its Space Security Research Fellowship 2026, a highly competitive, year-long fellowship designed to develop the next generation of experts in outer space security, international security policy, and space governance.

This fellowship offers early-career professionals a unique opportunity to contribute directly to UN-led research, engage with global policymakers, and build specialized expertise in one of the fastest-growing areas of international security.

Fellowship Summary

• Program: UNIDIR Space Security Research Fellowship
• Start Date: March 2026
• Duration: 12 months
• Location: Remote, with funded in-person components
• Positions Available: 10 Fellows
• Funding Type: Equity-free (no participation fees)
• Application Deadline: 31 January 2026 (23:59 Geneva time)

About UNIDIR

UNIDIR is an autonomous research institute within the United Nations system, headquartered at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. The Institute conducts independent research on disarmament, arms control, and international security, supporting Member States, the UN system, and global policy communities in advancing peace and stability.

UNIDIR’s Space Security Programme, launched in 2022, focuses on understanding and addressing the international security risks associated with the use of outer space and space technologies. The programme supports policymakers in ensuring that outer space remains peaceful, secure, and accessible for all.

Fellowship Overview

The Space Security Research Fellowship equips emerging professionals with the skills, networks, and hands-on research experience required to navigate the legal, political, and technical dimensions of space security.

As outer space becomes increasingly critical to global security, communications, and economic development, this fellowship aims to build a diverse pipeline of experts capable of contributing to responsible space governance and international cooperation.

Fellows will benefit from structured training, applied research opportunities, and direct engagement with multilateral policy processes within the UN system.

Fellowship Structure

The fellowship runs for a full calendar year and is designed to be flexible and fully remote, aside from scheduled in-person activities.

Key components include:

• Participation in UNIDIR-led research projects and policy outputs
• Virtual lectures, workshops, and expert discussions on space security
• Collaborative engagements with fellow participants and UNIDIR staff
• Completion of a “Space Security 101” preparatory course covering:
  • Core space security issues
  • Relevant UN processes
  • Use of UNIDIR’s Space Security Digital Tools, including the Space Security Portal and Space Security Lexicon
• In-person participation in:
  • The annual Fellows Workshop
  • UNIDIR’s Outer Space Security Conference

UNIDIR will fully cover travel and accommodation costs for all required in-person activities to ensure equitable participation. No stipend is provided for the virtual component.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should be early-career professionals who have completed or are currently enrolled in a graduate-level programme in a relevant field, such as:

• International Relations or International Affairs
• Political Science
• International Law
• Public Administration
• Disarmament and Arms Control
• International Security or related disciplines

Language Requirements

• Fluency in English (written and spoken) is mandatory
• Knowledge of another official United Nations language is an advantage

Expectations and Fellowship Outputs

During the fellowship, participants will actively contribute to UNIDIR’s space security research agenda.

Core deliverables include:

• Development of two policy-relevant fact sheets on space security topics for publication on UNIDIR’s digital platforms
• Contribution to the Space Security Lexicon by researching and expanding a specialized term
• Completion of a National Profile fact sheet for the Space Security Portal

Optional deliverable:

• Fellows may propose an independent short research commentary under the mentorship of UNIDIR experts. Approved proposals must demonstrate originality, policy relevance, and feasibility. Selected commentaries may be developed for formal UNIDIR publication.

All research outputs are guided by UNIDIR’s research team to ensure neutrality, accuracy, and policy relevance.

Assessment Process

Shortlisted candidates may be required to complete an assessment exercise, followed by a competency-based interview.

Copyright and Intellectual Property

UNIDIR retains copyright and intellectual property rights for all work produced under the Fellowship Agreement. Written outputs may be attributed to the Fellow, provided all submissions are original or appropriately licensed.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit the following documents by email:

• A cover letter
• A CV or résumé (maximum two pages)
• Names and contact details of three referees

Applications must be sent as email attachments with the subject line:

Application: Space Security Research Fellowship

Send applications to: [email protected]

Only email applications will be accepted. Submissions must be received no later than 31 January 2026 at 23:59 Geneva time.

Important Notes

Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Additional assessments may be required at later stages of the selection process.

UNIDIR is committed to the core United Nations values of Integrity, Professionalism, and Respect for Diversity and strongly encourages women to apply.

The UNIDIR Space Security Research Fellowship 2026 offers a rare opportunity to gain hands-on experience in UN policy research, contribute to global space security discussions, and join an international network shaping the future of peaceful outer space governance.