Intern - UNEP FI Risk Centre

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. Established in 1972, UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and has been instrumental in shaping international environmental policies and practices. With a workforce of over 1,000 employees, UNEP operates in more than 100 countries, collaborating with governments, civil society, and the private sector to address pressing environmental challenges. UNEP FI, a strategic partnership between the United Nations and over 500 banks, insurers, and investors, has been at the forefront of promoting sustainable finance for over 32 years, setting global standards and fostering a network of leading financial institutions committed to sustainability.

Job Overview:
The intern will work with UNEP FI’s Risk Centre, which focuses on climate and nature risk, to support the delivery of a programme of events and publications aimed at risk professionals. The intern will assist in advancing the understanding of key topics at the intersection of climate, nature, and finance, including climate data, scenario analysis, legal risks, and best practices for disclosures. The role will involve engaging with financial institutions to promote sustainable finance and align their practices with the Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development Goals. The intern will contribute to the development of tools, papers, workshops, and other outputs that empower the financial sector to address sustainability risks and support the low-carbon transition. Daily responsibilities may vary based on the intern's background and the internship period, providing a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a global environmental organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's duties may include: researching developments in risk assessment and management practices related to climate impacts and sustainability regulations; evaluating financial sector practices concerning climate and nature risks; assisting in drafting and editing research outputs, including reports and tools; coordinating research project management and communications; preparing for events through logistical planning and agenda setting; supporting Risk Centre operations, including email management and website updates; building networks with members and partners; and working on additional tasks to ensure the success of the programme.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria at the time of application: be enrolled in a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); be in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor's level or equivalent); or have graduated with a university degree and must commence the internship within a one-year period of graduation. A background in economics, social sciences, natural sciences, environmental science, public policy, sustainable development, business administration, finance, or a related field is required. While no professional work experience is necessary, a field of study closely related to the internship is essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in a Master’s or Ph.D. Programme, or have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. Programme. Proof of enrollment or a copy of the degree certificate must be provided with the application. This educational background ensures that candidates possess the necessary theoretical knowledge and skills relevant to the internship.

Experience:
No prior professional work experience is required to apply for the United Nations Internship Programme. However, candidates should have relevant academic training or coursework that aligns with the internship's focus on sustainable finance and environmental risk management. This allows interns to contribute effectively to the UNEP FI Risk Centre's objectives while gaining valuable experience in the field.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this internship, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another UN language, such as French, is desirable and may enhance the candidate's application, as it demonstrates the ability to communicate in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations, and they are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the country where the internship is undertaken may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. Candidates should discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, and applicants should be cautious of any requests for personal financial information.