DETAILS AND APPLY

The OPCW’s mission is to implement the provisions of the Chemical Weapons Convention to achieve our vision of a world free of chemical weapons in which chemistry is used for peace, progress, and prosperity, and to contribute to international security and stability, general and complete disarmament, and global economic development. The OPCW was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013 for its extensive efforts to eliminate chemical weapons.   General Information Contract Type Fixed-term Professional Grade P4 Total Estimated monthly remuneration depending on post adjustment and family status: USD 10,587 Closing Date 04/03/2026 Responsibilities Job Summary The Office of Strategy and Policy (OSP) develops the Technical Secretariat’s strategic planning and provides policy advice to the Director-General and the Secretariat’s management, particularly relating to cross-cutting issues such as incidents of chemical weapons use, non-routine missions, chemical security, engagement with international organisations and chemical industry, education and outreach, counter-terrorism, and science and technology.   This role in OSP ensures that the Science Policy Adviser is provided with expert advice on advancements in science and technology, with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and digital sciences, through continuous monitoring and provision of specialised advice on applicability to the work of the OPCW. The individual will also help lead, coordinate, and integrate AI and data science-driven approaches and solutions to and in the work of the Secretariat. This role will also take the lead on the Organisation’s knowledge management activities, with a focus on the development and implementation of knowledge management systems and the development and application of digital tools to knowledge management processes. Main Responsibilities Under the direct supervision of the Science Policy Adviser, the Senior Science Policy Officer (AI, Data Sciences and Knowledge Management) will perform the following duties: Monitors advances in artificial intelligence and related technologies and provides the first level supervisor with advice and guidance on strategic topics that relate to the work of OPCW. Contributes to and coordinates organisational reports as required; Leads the management and implementation of knowledge management practices for the Organisation; Supports and, where appropriate, coordinates and/or leads scientific activities related to AI, data gathering and data curation across the Technical Secretariat. Communicates with prospective external donors, builds and maintains relationships, and secures project-based funds for scientific activities; Serves as an internal resource to provide advice and technical information on artificial intelligence, data science and machine learning for units across the OPCW. Proactively engages staff across the OPCW on scientific topics; Coordinates internal and external meetings and keep records of those; Contributes, as appropriate, to the preparations of conferences and meetings, coordinate the Technical Secretariat’s follow-up and provide advice on related issues to the Science Policy Advisor and the Director of OSP; Performs other duties as requested. Qualifications and Experience Education Essential: Advanced University degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) field, such as Chemistry, Physics, Statistics, Computer Science, Data, Science, or Applied Mathematics; A first level University degree in STEM in combination with qualifying experience (at least 9 years) may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. Knowledge and Experience Essential: At least 7 years of professional experience in a relevant field, or at least 9 years with only a first level degree; Applied experience with machine learning on large datasets; Management and implementation of knowledge management systems, including organising, tagging, or structuring information for accessibility; Experience in one or more of the following areas: coding (e.g., C/C++, Python, Java), databases and querying (e.g., SQL, MySQL, MapReduce, Hadoop); Proven record of producing high-quality technical reports, briefings, or publications for diverse audiences; Leading or coordinating AI/data science-driven projects in an organisational context. Desirable: Experience with statistical programming languages and analysis and relevant data management collaboration tools; Experience in the assessment of emerging AI and digital science developments, including applications, risks, and opportunities; Experience in ethical AI governance or responsible AI practices; Experience in disarmament, arms control and/or non-proliferation; Knowledge of international security affairs; Experience in multilateral affairs; Strategy or policy development experience in international organisations, government or non-profit sector.   Skills and Competencies A strong understanding of scientific and technological principles related to data science, data curation, artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, and related technologies; Familiarity with driving forces and trends, and subsequent advances in data science and artificial intelligence; Strong ability to frame technical questions in order to help solve policy problems; Advocate of scientific literacy to aid decision making processes; Excellent stakeholder management skills, including ability to deliver results through others and ability to deliver high-quality results under pressure; Thorough understanding of the complexities of working in an international environment (including the different points of view of a diverse membership); Exquisite communication skills – both oral and written – and ability to engage in effective dialogue with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders on diverse scientific and technical topics; Proven ability to influence, persuade and mobilize agreement and action on complex issues; Excellent interpersonal skills: ability to work in teams and in multi-cultural environments; Challenges the status quo, contributes and tries out innovative approaches and insights.