The Geneva Graduate Institute is hiring a Postdoctoral Researcher for a five-year SNSF-funded project exploring belligerent consent to UN peace missions. Apply by September 1, 2025.

Join a Groundbreaking Research Initiative on Peace and Conflict Resolution

The Geneva Graduate Institute is offering an exceptional research opportunity for early-career scholars passionate about international peacebuilding. The Centre on Conflict, Development and Peacebuilding (CCDP) is currently seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to contribute to a five-year research project titled “Yes I Do: Belligerent Consent to United Nations Peace Missions,” generously funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF).

This pivotal project will run from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2027 (with possible adjustments) and aims to reshape the discourse around international peace missions by exploring the nuanced concept of “consent” given by conflict parties. The postdoctoral role presents a rare chance to take part in innovative research with global implications, supported by a collaborative and prestigious academic environment.

Research Context: Rethinking Consent in UN Peace Missions

Consent is a cornerstone of UN peace operations, yet its complexities remain underexplored. The “Yes I Do” project investigates how consent is granted, negotiated, and sustained in peacebuilding contexts—particularly by belligerent actors. By bridging quantitative and qualitative methods, the project will generate actionable insights and new theoretical frameworks that could inform both academic understanding and policy design in international peace efforts.

The project is grounded in interdisciplinary traditions, drawing from peacekeeping, mediation, conflict resolution, and political science, and seeks to make a significant contribution to ongoing discussions about the legitimacy, effectiveness, and future of UN peace operations.

Key Responsibilities of the Postdoctoral Researcher

The selected researcher will contribute meaningfully to all aspects of the project and will be responsible for:

• Dataset Development:
  Collaborate on building a robust dataset on belligerent consent in UN peace missions, combining statistical data with case-specific qualitative analysis.

• Quantitative Analysis:
  Conduct research to identify enabling and hindering factors that influence consent. This includes designing and implementing statistical models that support the project’s analytical goals.

• Case Study Research:
  Lead the design and execution of in-depth case studies to explore the formation, evolution, and possible breakdown of consent in specific peacekeeping missions.

• Dissemination & Publication:
  Contribute to high-quality journal articles (both solo and co-authored), present findings at conferences, and co-organize dissemination events that reach both academic and policy-oriented audiences.

Ideal Candidate Profile

This role is tailored for a highly motivated, methodologically skilled scholar with expertise in international relations, political science, or peace and conflict studies. Ideal candidates should possess:

• A PhD in political science, sociology, international relations, social anthropology, or a related discipline (with focus areas such as peace studies, mediation, or conflict resolution).

• A strong background in quantitative methodologies; experience with mixed-methods research is a distinct advantage.

• Demonstrated research excellence, including a publication record in peer-reviewed academic journals.

• Strong communication and collaboration skills, as well as the ability to manage independent research.

• Fluency in English (spoken and written). Knowledge of additional languages relevant to case study regions is beneficial.

Application Process

Interested applicants are invited to submit their applications by September 1, 2025, via email to ccdp@graduateinstitute.ch with the subject line: “CCDP Postdoctoral Researcher Position.”

The application must be sent as a single PDF and include the following:

• A Motivation Letter

• An updated Curriculum Vitae with a list of publications

• A Research Proposal (maximum 3 pages) detailing how your work aligns with the project and how you plan to contribute

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interviews in September 2025. The position officially begins on January 1, 2026, or on a mutually agreed date.

What the Institute Offers

• A stimulating academic environment at a leading research institute known for cutting-edge work in international affairs.

• Opportunities for collaboration with globally recognized scholars and practitioners.

• A strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, welcoming applicants of all backgrounds and identities.

For more information about the position, candidates may reach out to:

• Dr. Eliza Urwin, Head of Research: eliza.urwin@graduateinstitute.ch

• Dr. Sara Hellmueller, Principal Investigator: sara.hellmueller@graduateinstitute.ch

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