SIPRI's Major Initiatives team is hiring a Research Assistant (8 months)
SIPRI is one of the world’s foremost peace research institutions. It is known for the quality and relevance of its research; for the digestibility among policy constituencies of the ways in which it presents data, analysis, conclusions and recommendations; for the effectiveness of its outreach and dissemination; and for its convening power.
The Major Initiatives team leads a variety of cross cutting projects within SIPRI, all of which have a strong policy focus. It's current focus is on two projects related to development and human security and is also responsible for the delivery of the Stockholm Forum on Peace and Development, SIPRI’s flagship convening event of the year.
The Research Assistant would work on both projects as well as support with the delivery and evaluation of the 2026 Stockholm Forum on Peace and Development.
Tasks and responsibilities- Supporting the implementation of in-person and virtual events within the Human Security dialogue project, including developing concept notes, drafting background papers, liaising with project partners and identifying potential speakers for events
- Supporting the development, delivery, and evaluation of the 2026 Stockholm Forum on Peace and Development including liaison with the Forums co-convenors, partner organisations and potential speakers.
- Supporting events, communication activities and research related to the “Development aid as a security priority” project
- Keeping abreast of policy discussions, research and developments related to the work of the Major initiatives team
- Contributing to a pleasant and stimulating intellectual and work environment in the Institute.
- 1-2 years of professional experience;
- Knowledge of the field of human security and/or development cooperation
- Demonstrated ability of effective project assistance and coordination;
- Experience of building productive relationships with stakeholders
- Ability to work and deliver high quality work within small teams under high pressure;
- Excellent written and oral communications skills;
- Fluency in oral and written English is essential, with language proficiency in Swedish and/or French a useful advantage.
Due to the short-term nature of the position, we can only consider candidates who are currently based in Sweden or have the legal right to work in Sweden.
The position is a time-limited appointment for researchers for a period of 8 months, starting in July or August 2026.
The post is full-time and the salary package will be negotiated individually.
How to apply
Candidates should submit a resume/CV and a one-page cover by using the 'apply' button below. Both CV and letter should be in English.
The closing date for applications is 8th June 2026.
Applications will be reviewed and interviews held on a rolling basis, so the advertisement will be taken down once the position is filled. We therefore encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.
For enquiries regarding the position, please contact: https://www.sipri.org/about/bios/claire-mcallister, Head of Major Initiatives.
The trade union contacts at SIPRI are https://www.sipri.org/about/bios/pieter-d-wezeman for ST and https://www.sipri.org/search/node?keys=annika for Saco-S