CTBT Research Fellows

Post number: CTBT Research Fellows

The Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization with its headquarters in Vienna is the international organization setting up the global verification system foreseen under the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), which is the Treaty banning any nuclear weapon test explosion or any other nuclear explosions. The Treaty provides for a global verification regime, including the International Monitoring System network of 321 stations worldwide, a communication system, an International Data Centre and on-site inspections to monitor compliance.

The Commission invites graduate and PhD students, recent graduates and post-doctoral researchers to participate in this Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) Fellowship program aimed at generating new and innovative solutions to problems in areas related to all aspects of CTBT monitoring. The specific research may focus on the nexus between science and diplomacy, developments in the CTBT monitoring technologies and their impact on the prospects for its entry into force of the Treaty. Technical aspects could cover issues related to the International Monitoring System (IMS) verification technologies, data processing and on-site inspections as well as the innovative use of monitoring data and methods to other civil and scientific applications. Examples of relevant research topics are discussed under:
Scientific Advances in CTBT Monitoring and Verification. Review of Presentations and Outcomes of the 2011 SnT Conference
or under: program for the Science, Technology and Innovation 2013
We seek to recruit a highly qualified candidate for the following position in the Commission’s Provisional Technical Secretariat:

Post title: CTBT Research Fellows
Grade: N/A
Vacancy Announcement No: CTBT Research Fellows
Date of Issuance: 12-Jun-2014
Deadline Date: 11-Jul-2014
Reporting date: 01-Aug-2014

The successful candidates will be placed in the External Relations and International Cooperation (ER-IC) Section, but will be given opportunities to interact with technical divisions for their research projects and work with staff on ongoing projects related to the political, legal and technical aspects of the CTBT.

Internal:

  • Work collaboratively with colleagues to achieve the section’s and thus organizational goals.

External:

  • The Fellows may be in contact with external CTBT stakeholders in government, academia, the media, and in other areas of civil society.

Before the end of the fellowship in Vienna, selected Fellows will be required to submit a written interim report and make an oral presentation on the initial findings. Provided that the final research projects meet the required criteria, the fellows will be expected to present their research at appropriate opportunities, such as the 2015 Science &Technology Conference, and/or publish their research in appropriate journals.

Qualifications:

  • A university student pursuing an advanced degree in science, engineering or political science or a recent graduate with an advanced degree in science, engineering or political science; and
  • Good oral and written communication skills in English.

Competencies:

Conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results and be able to work independently with minimum supervision.

Remuneration/Contract:

The CTBTO Research Fellows will receive a monthly stipend. This will be paid for the approved term of the award.
The fellowship awardee may be considered for travel to present results at a scientific meeting.
The duration of the CTBT Research Fellowship Program will be 3 months with possibility of a 5 month extension subject to the availability of funds.

To apply, the following is required:

  • Your Personal History Form;
  • Cover letter;
  • Research proposal: The research proposal should be no more than 2000 words and outline an interdisciplinary study based on both policy and technical expertise or apply social sciences on a scientific-technical issue with relevance to the CTBT; and
  • Letter of recommendation: The letter of recommendation should be provided by a professor or academic adviser at the home institution that will supervise the research.

The research proposal together with the Letter of recommendation need to be uploaded as a *.zip file at the “Additional Information” stage, prior to submitting your application. To start the application process, click here.