Traineeship in the Forensic Unit

What we do

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) works worldwide to provide protection and humanitarian assistance to people affected by conflict and armed violence. We take action in response to emergencies and, at the same time, promote respect for international humanitarian law. We are an independent and neutral organization, and our mandate stems essentially from the Geneva Conventions of 1949. We work closely with National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and with their International Federation to ensure a concerted, rational, and rapid humanitarian response to the needs of the victims of armed conflict or any other situation of internal violence. We direct and coordinate the international activities conducted in these situations.

Purpose of the position

With a team of more than 100 Forensic experts working all over the World, the ICRC Forensic Unit brings a unique expertise offering support and advice on protection and assistance to affected populations in relation to solving missing cases, accurately handling the deceased in emergencies, and addressing diverse capacities of medicolegal systems. The Forensic Unit works closely with multiple ICRC programs as part of the Central Tracing Agency to implement Humanitarian Forensic Action. Ensuring clear internal communication between the different units and with the teams in the field is a key factor in keeping ICRC’s response transversal and impactful.

Based in Geneva headquarters, the Forensic Associate will contribute to the work of the Forensic Unit in the promotion and continued development of its programs and activities related to strengthening medicolegal systems globally and managing the deceased in emergencies. They will support the global forensic management team, be in charge of internal and external communication, information management, and coordination of internal reporting, and have the opportunity to work on multiple ongoing projects.

Reports to (role)

Head of Forensic Unit

Accountabilities & Functional responsibilities

Under the supervision and mentorship of the Unit management, the Forensic Associate:

• Serves as the focal point for information management for the Forensic Unit (including the SharePoint libraries and internal digital community tools);
• Helps implement communications activities and projects (both internal and external to the institution) by promoting the Unit’s work through web-based platforms;
• Ensures the collection and accurate update of information and documents produced by the Unit, including the data on forensic operations globally for vital analysis and reporting;
• Supports the global management team and the planning and delivery of Unit events (meetings and courses);
• Contributes to ongoing forensic-related projects as required.

Relationships

Interact with the Forensic Unit, Central Tracing Agency Units and Programs, and the Protection and Essential Services department.

Certifications / Education required

• Master’s degree in forensic sciences, health sciences, physical anthropology, or related studies equivalent to a Master’s degree;
• Good knowledge of the human identification process;
• Excellent digital literacy;
• Skills in digital communication are an asset;
• Excellent writing skills.

Professional Experience required

Maximum two years of professional experience after graduation (traineeship is considered as professional experience) in a related forensic field (ideally in a scientific domain).

Desired profile and skills

• Well-organized and diligent;
• Able to work under pressure in rapidly changing (emergency) circumstances;
• Good predisposition to working in a team;
• Able to work independently and autonomously when required;
• Familiarity with human rights law and humanitarian law is an asset;
• Field and/or laboratory experience is an asset;
• Knowledge and experience in using social media;
• Strong analytical and research skills;
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Additional information

• Location: Geneva
• Type of contract: Traineeship
• Length of assignment: 12 months
• Relocation: Not provided for traineeships
• Visa/permit: legitimacy card provided
• Gross monthly salary: 3’840,00 CHF
• Estimated start date: 03.04.2023
• Application deadline: 05.02.2023
• Application documents required: diplomas, work certificates, scan color of passport – please upload it on your profile.

The ICRC values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive working environment. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates.