Junior Fellows Internship Programme

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations University (UNU) has been a leading think tank for over four decades, focusing on impartial research addressing critical global issues such as human survival, conflict prevention, development, and welfare. With a workforce of more than 400 researchers spread across 13 countries, UNU's initiatives align with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, aiming to generate policy-relevant knowledge that fosters positive global change. The organization collaborates with over 200 UN agencies, universities, and research institutions worldwide, reinforcing its commitment to impactful research and development. For more information, visit http://unu.edu.

Job Overview:
The Junior Fellows internship-programme" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Internship Programme at the United Nations University Office of the Rector is designed to recruit highly qualified graduate students who are interested in the work of the United Nations and UNU. This competitive program is offered twice a year, providing a dynamic and rewarding experience for interns. Successful candidates will contribute to the Office of the Rector's work and gain valuable skills and knowledge applicable to their future careers in international relations or development. The program emphasizes training, guidance, and hands-on experience, beginning with a one-week orientation to familiarize interns with UNU's operations and their colleagues. Junior Fellows will engage in meaningful work that supports UNU's mission and objectives, while also benefiting from opportunities to develop professionally and personally.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Junior Fellows will engage in various initiatives that provide insight into UNU's operations. Responsibilities include conducting administrative research and writing for institutional development, preparing executive briefs on priority issues, and drafting topical information briefs to support internal policy development. They will assist in planning by developing project management tools and systems, conducting internal analyses using analytical tools like Microsoft Excel, and coordinating in-person and online events such as lectures and workshops. Additional duties include logistical support for meetings, proof-reading reports, copy editing, and preparing communication documents like newsletters and event summaries.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be currently pursuing or have recently completed postgraduate studies (master’s or doctoral) in a field relevant to UNU's work. Applicants should be under 32 years of age at the time of application and have no more than 5 years of work experience in their field. A native or fluent command of written and spoken English is essential, along with excellent research, writing, and analytical skills. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to establish effective working relationships with diverse individuals, exhibit resourcefulness and creativity in problem-solving, and possess advanced computer skills, particularly in MS Office applications. A demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and UNU is also required.

Educational Background:
The ideal educational background for this position includes a master's or doctoral degree in a relevant field, such as international relations, development studies, public policy, or a related discipline. Candidates should be currently enrolled in or have recently completed their postgraduate studies, ideally within the last two years, to ensure they are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills pertinent to the internship.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have limited professional experience, specifically no more than 5 years in their related field. This ensures that the internship remains a learning opportunity for recent graduates or current students, allowing them to gain practical experience while contributing to UNU's mission.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNU. While not required, proficiency in additional languages, particularly French, is considered an asset, especially for candidates interested in working at the UNU Office in Paris.

Additional Notes:
The internship is expected to last approximately 6 months, with a start date of 2nd March 2026 and an end date of 28th August 202

• Junior Fellows will work full-time during regular university hours, from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday to Friday, with weekends and official UNU holidays off. Interns will receive a monthly stipend to help cover living costs, and those working on-site will have access to office facilities. The program is designed to complement the interns' studies and does not guarantee employment with UNU upon completion. Additionally, UNU encourages applications from diverse backgrounds and has a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct.