Technology for Disaster Risk Reduction Assessment Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) was established in December 1999 and serves as the designated focal point within the United Nations system for coordinating efforts aimed at reducing disasters. The organization plays a crucial role in ensuring synergies among disaster reduction activities across the United Nations and regional organizations, impacting both developed and less developed countries. UNDRR is led by the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction (SRSG) and employs over 150 staff members who are based in its headquarters located in Geneva, Switzerland, as well as in various regional offices. The organization is dedicated to guiding, monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on the progress of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-203

• It actively supports the implementation of this framework at both regional and national levels while catalyzing action and raising global awareness to mitigate disaster risk. UNDRR collaborates with U.N. Member States and a diverse range of partners, including civil society, the private sector, parliamentarians, and the science and technology community, to achieve its mission.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is designed for a duration of two months and is home-based, allowing for a flexible work environment. The intern will report directly to the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), specifically to the Regional Office for the Americas and the Caribbean (ROAC). This internship is unpaid and is intended to be a full-time commitment. Under the guidance of the Risk Knowledge Programme Management Officer, the intern will play a vital role in advancing the integration of technology to support disaster risk reduction (DRR) initiatives. The intern's work will directly contribute to achieving specific indicators outlined in the 2026-2027 workplan, particularly focusing on how technology and innovation can generate actionable insights that are locally relevant for risk-informed development. The intern will be involved in promoting better governance, management, and analysis of risk data through technological innovation and digital transformation, as well as assisting governments and stakeholders in leveraging these innovations to utilize risk data effectively for disaster risk reduction.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for supporting various initiatives aimed at integrating technology into disaster risk reduction strategies. This includes conducting research and analysis on current technological trends and their applications in DRR, assisting in the development of reports and presentations that communicate findings and recommendations, and collaborating with team members to identify opportunities for innovation in risk data management. The intern will also engage with stakeholders to gather insights and feedback on technology use in disaster risk reduction efforts, and may be tasked with organizing virtual meetings or workshops to facilitate discussions on best practices and lessons learned in the field. Additionally, the intern will be expected to contribute to the documentation of processes and outcomes related to technology integration in DRR, ensuring that all work aligns with the objectives of the UNDRR and the broader goals of the Sendai Framework.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this internship, applicants must meet one of the following criteria: they must either be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (university degree or equivalent, or higher), or they must be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s level or equivalent). Candidates should be pursuing or have pursued their degree in fields related to disaster risk reduction, technology, or other relevant areas. Furthermore, applicants must demonstrate the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs, showing a willingness to understand and respect differing opinions and views. Proficiency in standard software applications, particularly MS Word, PowerPoint, and MS Teams, is also required. While professional work experience is not mandatory for this internship, a field of study closely related to the internship's focus is essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor's or equivalent), or they must be enrolled in or have completed a Master's or Ph.D. program. The educational background should be relevant to the internship's focus on disaster risk reduction and technology integration. Proof of enrollment or completion of the required educational qualifications must be provided with the application.

Experience:
This internship does not require prior professional work experience. However, candidates should have a strong academic background in a field related to disaster risk reduction, technology, or a similar area. The internship is designed for individuals who are either currently pursuing their studies or have recently completed their degree, allowing them to gain practical experience in a professional setting while contributing to meaningful projects.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is another working language within the organization. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing, to fulfill the responsibilities of the internship.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and candidates should be aware that they will be responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Panama may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. Due to the high volume of applications, only successful candidates will be contacted. The United Nations encourages applications from qualified women, men, and individuals with disabilities, and strongly encourages female candidates to apply. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training.