Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that operates in 170 countries and territories, focusing on sustainable development and the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Established as part of the UN Development System, UNDP serves as a knowledge frontier organization, enabling collective action to address pressing global challenges. The organization emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that all personnel are empowered to contribute to its mission. UNDP has a strong commitment to preventing sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, and discrimination, and all selected candidates undergo rigorous reference and background checks.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position at UNDP Bangkok Regional Hub is designed to support Project Vision, which aims to assist countries in the Asia-Pacific region in developing integrated and scalable solutions to tackle interconnected challenges such as poverty, inequality, and exclusion. Interns will work under the direct supervision of the RBAP Chief Economist and will be involved in various tasks that contribute to the analysis of the evolving development landscape. This includes identifying strategic opportunities for human development and growth, conducting tailored research projects, and supporting high-level advisory engagements. The role is ideal for individuals interested in international development and offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a multicultural environment while contributing to meaningful projects that align with UNDP's priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks, which will be divided into three main areas: 1) Supporting the deployment of Project Vision and BOLD across Asia-Pacific (60% of the role), which includes analyzing how megatrends are reshaping development opportunities, identifying strategic 'big bets' for human development, and preparing data-driven analyses for advisory engagements. 2) Conducting a tailored research project (30% of the role), where interns will undertake research on a theme agreed upon with their supervisor, aiming to produce a research paper that aligns with UNDP's priorities. Possible research themes include economic transformation, demographic shifts, and poverty and inequality. 3) Contributing to other relevant activities (10% of the role) to ensure full integration into the daily work of the unit.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong analytical skills and the ability to conduct rigorous research and analysis, including familiarity with econometric techniques. They should have a good understanding of global and regional development issues, particularly in the areas of inclusive growth, governance, and sustainability. Excellent writing and drafting skills in English are essential, along with good communication abilities. Proficiency in relevant software for data analysis is considered an advantage. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in working within an international organization and possess a goal-oriented mindset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must meet one of the following educational requirements: currently enrolled in a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher), currently enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor's level or equivalent), or graduated with a university degree and must start the internship within one year after graduation. A field of study in economics, development studies, or related fields is required.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandated, candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in international development and possess relevant skills that align with the internship's responsibilities. The internship is designed for individuals who are either currently studying or have recently graduated, thus providing an entry-level opportunity to gain experience in the field.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as excellent writing and communication skills in English are required for the position. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required for this internship.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid, but UNDP will provide a monthly stipend of THB 8,302.50 in accordance with its internship policy. Interns are responsible for all other expenses related to the internship, including travel, accommodation, and health insurance. Interns must provide proof of enrollment in a health insurance plan and are expected to work full-time, although some flexibility is allowed for educational commitments. It is important to note that interns are not eligible to apply for or be appointed to any post in UNDP during the internship period.