INVESTIGATOR (Digital Forensic)

UN Secretariat; Wien; On-site; EUR 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine (IICIU) in Vienna, Austria, seeks an Investigator to conduct digital investigations into alleged human rights violations in line with OHCHR methodologies. You will collect and analyze electronic and open-source information, verify content via forensic examination, preserve material, and advise on appropriate tools and data presentation.

Candidates should hold an advanced degree in a relevant field, at least five years in human rights

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in a relevant field to be eligible.
• Alternatively, a first-level degree with two years of qualifying experience.
• Formal qualifications or certifications in investigations and analysis are advantageous.
• Minimum five years of progressively responsible work experience in human rights.
• Experience investigating violations of international human rights law, international humanitarian law, or international criminal law.
• Experience in or concerning the region is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Conduct digital investigations into violations following IICIU and OHCHR methodologies.
• Collect and analyze electronic, digital, and social media information and evidence.
• Verify open-source digital content through forensic examination.
• Support analytical processes and preserve digital material according to evidentiary standards.
• Advise on utilizing open-source material and understanding digital evidence.
• Propose tools for analyzing and presenting complex data.
• Ensure safe handling, storage, and preservation of investigation documentation and materials.
• Integrate gender perspectives into all responsibilities and perform other duties as required.

Skills

Digital investigations

Data analysis

Evidence collection

Research methodologies

Electronic sources

Investigation software

Interviewing

Investigation reports

UN policies and procedures

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Technology awareness

Education

Master's degree in data science, digital forensics, computer science, data privacy, conflict studies, international criminal law, or related fields

First-level degree with two years of qualifying experience substitute

Certifications in investigations and analysis advantageous

Job description

Organizational context: This position is based within the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine (IICIU) in Vienna, Austria, established by the Human Rights Council. The role operates under the overall guidance of the IICIU Coordinator and the direct supervision of the Investigations Team Leader, contributing to the commission's mandate.

Job purpose: The Investigator's primary purpose is to conduct digital investigations into alleged violations of international human rights, humanitarian, or criminal law, adhering to the IICIU's mandate and OHCHR methodologies. This involves collecting, analyzing, and verifying digital and open-source information and evidence, including forensic examinations. The role supports the preservation of digital material according to evidentiary standards, advises on the use of open-source intelligence, and proposes tools for data analysis and presentation. The incumbent ensures proper handling and storage of investigation materials, integrating gender perspectives throughout their responsibilities.

Responsibilities: Conduct digital investigations into alleged violations of international human rights, humanitarian, or criminal law, following IICIU and OHCHR methodologies. Collect and analyze electronic, digital, and social media information and evidence, assessing credibility and reliability. Verify open-source digital content (audio, images, video, geo-location) through forensic examination. Support analytical processes and preserve digital material according to evidentiary standards. Advise the IICIU on utilizing open-source material and understanding digital evidence. Propose tools for analyzing and presenting complex data. Ensure safe handling, storage, and preservation of investigation documentation and materials. Integrate gender perspectives into all responsibilities and perform other duties as required.

Education: An advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in data science, digital forensics, computer science, data privacy, conflict studies, international criminal law, or related fields is required. A first-level degree with two additional years of qualifying experience may substitute. Formal qualifications or certifications in investigations and analysis are advantageous.

Work experience: A minimum of five years of progressively responsible work experience in human rights is required. This includes at least two years of experience investigating violations of international human rights law, international humanitarian law, or international criminal law. Relevant working experience in or concerning the region is desirable.

Skills: Proficiency in digital investigations, data analysis, and evidence collection. Strong research, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Knowledge of various research methodologies and electronic sources. Ability to use investigation software applications. Competence in gathering electronic evidence and interviewing. Skill in drafting complex investigation reports. Understanding of UN policies and procedures. Effective communication and interpersonal skills. Technological awareness and ability to apply new technologies.

Required languages: English

Desired languages: Ukrainian, Russian, French