Intern - Science-Policy Unit

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the designated entity of the United Nations system for addressing environmental issues at both global and regional levels. Established to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus, UNEP plays a crucial role in monitoring the global environment and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community. The Latin America and the Caribbean Office, located in Panama City, Panama, serves the needs of 33 countries in the region, including 16 small island developing states, and has a population of approximately 650 million people. UNEP's mission is to provide timely, scientifically credible, policy-relevant environmental analyses, data, and information for decision-making and action planning for sustainable development. The office's activities are integrated into the work programs approved by the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA).

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position within the Science-Policy Unit at UNEP's Latin America and the Caribbean Office is designed to support the regional Environment under Review Subprogramme. Interns will be involved in various research and administrative tasks aimed at enhancing the quality and scope of the program. The internship is expected to last between three to six months, with two interns based in Panama City and one in Montevideo. Interns will work full-time, five days a week, under the supervision of a staff member in the Science Policy Unit. The role requires a commitment to in-person work, with some flexibility for remote work. Interns will engage in a range of activities, including supporting the implementation of the biennial workplan, coordinating with UNEP's Regional Environmental Information Network, and assisting in the preparation of communications and technical documents. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in environmental policy and research within a prestigious international organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide general support for the implementation of the biennial workplan of the Science-Policy Subprogramme.
• Ensure smooth coordination and regular exchange of information with focal points of UNEP's Regional Environmental Information Network (REIN) through regular communications and facilitation of meetings.
• Follow up with countries regarding the current production of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) indicators where UNEP is the custodian agency.
• Support the continuous updating and data enrichment of the regional data platform maintained by UNEP.
• Conduct secondary data research to assist in the development of concept notes, proposals, policy briefs, or activities.
• Aid in the preparation of communications pieces, technical briefing notes, news articles, draft reports, and publications as necessary.
• Support the start-up phase of any projects if required.
• Assist in organizing meetings, training sessions, and workshops.
• Support other activities as requested by the supervising staff members.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be enrolled in a master's degree program in Engineering, Economics, Statistics, Environmental Science, or a related field, or be in the final academic year of a Bachelor's degree program in similar disciplines. Alternatively, candidates may have graduated with a university degree in these fields. Desirable skills include the ability to write thematic and progress reports, knowledge of web management, data management, data visualization, and Geographic Information System (GIS) skills. Familiarity with critical environmental issues in the Latin American and Caribbean region is also advantageous. While no prior professional experience is required, candidates should demonstrate relevant academic background or coursework aligned with environmental research, data analysis, and management.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes enrollment in a master's degree program or final year of a bachelor's degree program in Engineering, Economics, Statistics, Environmental Science, or other relevant fields. Graduates with a degree in these areas are also eligible to apply. Candidates should have a strong foundation in environmental research, data analysis, and statistical methods, as well as programming or development tasks, which may be demonstrated through academic projects or coursework.

Experience:
No prior professional experience is required for this internship. However, candidates are expected to have relevant academic experience or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the internship, particularly in environmental research, data analysis, and management. This may include academic projects, research assignments, or relevant coursework that showcases their ability to work effectively with data and apply quantitative techniques.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English and Spanish is required for this internship, as the work will involve research and communication in both languages. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered desirable, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially compensated by the United Nations, and all costs related to 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. Successful candidates should discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. 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.