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 to advocate for the global environment, UNEP collaborates with over 400 global financial institutions through the UNEP Finance Initiative (UNEP FI). This initiative has developed significant sustainability-oriented frameworks in the finance industry, including the Principles for Responsible Investment, the Principles for Sustainable Insurance, and the Principles for Responsible Banking. UNEP FI also leads net zero alliances of banks, insurers, and asset owners, contributing to the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net-Zero. The organization aims to mobilize the financial sector to address climate and sustainability risks and support the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Job Overview:
The intern will work with the UNEP FI Risk Centre, which focuses on enhancing understanding and management of climate and nature risks within the financial sector. The intern will support risk specialists in technical enhancements and assist in delivering a program of events and publications aimed at risk professionals. The role involves creating a database of risk tools and guidance for member use, requiring knowledge of AI for aggregating public information, database management, and basic coding skills. Familiarity with Power BI is also beneficial. The intern will engage in various tasks, including research on sustainability-related regulations, compiling databases of financial sector practices, drafting and editing publications, coordinating communications, and supporting event preparations. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of best practices for measuring and managing sustainability risks in finance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's duties will include: - Assisting in the implementation of the UNEP FI Risk Centre’s 2026 program. - Providing technical assistance in creating a sustainability risk information database. - Conducting research on sustainability-related regulations and tools in the financial sector using desktop and AI-enhanced methods. - Evaluating and compiling a database of financial sector practices related to sustainability risks. - Drafting, fact-checking, and editing publications such as research reports and user guides. - Coordinating day-to-day communications, including organizing meetings and taking notes. - Assisting with logistical planning and agenda setting for events. - Supporting Risk Centre operations, including email management and website updates. - Building networks with members, partners, and other UN teams. - Performing other relevant tasks to ensure the success of the program.

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

Educational Background:
Candidates must be enrolled in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or in a Master’s or Ph.D. program, or have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. program. Proof of enrollment or a degree certificate must be attached to the application.

Experience:
No prior professional work experience is required for this internship. However, candidates should have relevant academic training or skills that would benefit the United Nations during their internship. The focus is on candidates who can demonstrate their knowledge and skills related to sustainability and finance.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English and Spanish is required for this internship. Knowledge of another UN language is desirable. English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, making proficiency in these languages advantageous.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations. All costs and arrangements for travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or their sponsoring institutions. 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, including application, interview, or training.