Internship in the Statistics Division

Job Posting Organization:
The internship is offered by the Statistics Division of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). ESCAP was established in 1947 and is one of the regional commissions of the United Nations. The organization aims to promote economic and social development in the Asia-Pacific region through various initiatives and programs. It operates in multiple countries across Asia and the Pacific, working closely with national governments and other stakeholders to enhance statistical capacity and data collection efforts. The Statistics Division specifically focuses on implementing programs for capacity building in statistics, collecting and analyzing data, and publishing statistical and analytical publications. The division collaborates with various organizations, including national statistical offices and other UN entities, to fulfill its mandates arising from General Assembly and ECOSOC resolutions.

Job Overview:
The internship in the Statistics Division is designed for individuals seeking to gain practical experience in the field of statistics and data analysis within a UN context. Interns will work under the supervision of a staff member in the division, contributing to various projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing statistical capacity in the Asia-Pacific region. The internship is full-time and unpaid, with a duration of at least three months, extendable up to six months based on the division's needs. Interns will engage in a range of activities, including research on AI-related topics, supporting the organization of webinars, and assisting in the production of publications. This role provides an excellent opportunity for interns to develop their skills and knowledge in official statistics while contributing to meaningful projects that impact the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns in the Statistics Division will have a variety of responsibilities that may include, but are not limited to:

• Supporting the organization of webinars focused on sharing experiences related to AI applications in statistics.
• Conducting research on AI-related topics and exploring their relevance to official statistics.
• Assisting in the production of publications on AI, collaborating with members of the DASH Team.
• Supporting the overall work of the DASH Team by providing timely assistance and following up on requests.
• Drafting research papers, blogs, and technical notes as needed.
• Participating in meetings within the section and division to contribute to discussions and initiatives. The specific duties will depend on the intern's background and the duration of the internship, allowing for a tailored experience that aligns with the intern's skills and interests.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the internship, applicants must meet one of the following criteria: a) be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); or b) be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor’s level or equivalent). This ensures that interns possess a foundational understanding of statistical concepts and methodologies, which is essential for contributing effectively to the division's work.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a strong academic background in statistics, mathematics, economics, social sciences, or a related field. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of data analysis and statistical methodologies that the internship will involve. A graduate degree or a nearing completion of a bachelor's degree is preferred, as it indicates a higher level of engagement with the subject matter.

Experience:
While prior work experience is not mandatory for this internship, any relevant experience in research, data analysis, or statistical work will be considered an asset. Interns should demonstrate a keen interest in statistics and data-driven decision-making, as well as a willingness to learn and adapt to the dynamic environment of the United Nations.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for the internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance the intern's ability to contribute to diverse projects within the division.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Thailand may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring that the application and selection process is free of charge.