The Open Nuclear Network (ONN), a programme of PAX sapiens, is inviting applications for the position of Research Analyst within its Office for Research and Analysis in Vienna, Austria.

The role offers an opportunity for professionals working in nuclear security, safeguards, non-proliferation, international security, open-source intelligence and disinformation analysis to contribute to research aimed at reducing nuclear risks and preventing strategic conflict.

About the Position

The successful candidate will participate in research projects examining international security challenges and the potential escalation of strategic conflicts, including situations that could involve nuclear threats.

A major focus of the position will be supporting the Global Partnership Against the Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction Counter Disinformation Initiative. Through this programme, the Research Analyst will contribute to efforts addressing chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear information manipulation, with particular attention to radiological and nuclear misinformation and disinformation.

The selected candidate will be expected to contribute to the design and implementation of research products and smaller projects, including developing research concepts, coordinating activities, analysing evidence, drafting reports and communicating findings to relevant stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

The Research Analyst will undertake activities including:

Collecting and analysing information using satellite imagery, trade data, technical assessments and policy research.
Applying open-source intelligence techniques to publicly available information.
Assessing the accuracy, credibility and integrity of information relating to nuclear and radiological issues.
Preparing analytical reports, policy-relevant research products, briefings and presentations.
Leading selected research products and project components under the guidance of senior analysts.
Supporting workshops, tabletop exercises and stakeholder engagements.
Identifying research gaps and contributing to project proposals and possible funding opportunities.
Collaborating with researchers, partner institutions and other ONN teams.
Presenting findings at meetings, professional networks and public engagement events.

Required Qualifications

Applicants should possess an advanced degree in a relevant field such as nuclear science and engineering, international relations, political science, public policy or data science. Additional professional experience may be considered in place of the advanced-degree requirement.

Candidates should also have:

At least four years of relevant professional experience.
Experience in a think tank, government institution, international organisation, research institution or non-governmental organisation.
Knowledge of nuclear proliferation, radiological security or related nuclear-risk issues.
Experience analysing regional or international security developments.
Demonstrated competence in open-source information analysis.
Strong analytical, report-writing and oral communication skills in English.
The ability to work independently and collaboratively in an international environment.

Experience in disinformation analysis, geospatial analysis, satellite imagery, project management, programming, artificial intelligence, machine learning or database management would be an advantage. Knowledge of an additional United Nations language is also desirable.

Contract and Employment Conditions

The position is based at the Open Nuclear Network office in Vienna, Austria, under a hybrid working arrangement.

The appointment is a salaried, fixed-term position for up to 18 months, connected to a project scheduled to run until October 2027. The role may involve approximately 15–20 per cent international travel.

The minimum gross annual salary is €45,000, with the possibility of higher remuneration depending on the successful applicant’s qualifications and professional experience. Benefits include paid annual leave, paid sick leave, Austrian and European Union health and social insurance, professional-development support and tuition-reimbursement assistance.

PAX sapiens states that applications are welcomed from candidates worldwide and that the organisation can facilitate Austrian work permits for successful international candidates, irrespective of their current nationality or immigration status.

Opportunity for African Nuclear Professionals

The position may be particularly relevant to African professionals with backgrounds in nuclear security, safeguards, radiation protection, non-proliferation, international relations, peace and security, geospatial analysis or nuclear-policy research.

African researchers and practitioners with experience analysing radiological and nuclear risks are encouraged to consider applying and to clearly demonstrate their experience in open-source research, policy analysis, technical reporting and international collaboration.

How to Apply

Applications should be submitted through the official PAX sapiens recruitment portal:

Apply for the Research Analyst position

No closing date was displayed in the vacancy information reviewed. Interested candidates are therefore advised to submit their applications as early as possible.