Research Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The Asian and Pacific Centre for Transfer of Technology (APCTT) is a regional institution established under the auspices of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). The organization focuses on enhancing the transfer of technology in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in areas such as climate change, renewable energy, and sustainable development. APCTT aims to promote regional cooperation and capacity building among member states to achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Research Intern will support the implementation of APCTT's substantive work programme, which involves developing and promoting mechanisms for technology transfer, particularly in new and emerging technologies. The intern will engage in various activities such as conducting research, organizing events, and assisting in the preparation of analytical reports. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain insights into the challenges faced by national innovation systems in the Asia-Pacific region and the role of the United Nations in facilitating policy advice and capacity building for sustainable development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's daily responsibilities will vary based on their background and the internship duration. Key duties include conducting research and literature reviews on technology transfer and climate technologies, assisting in the preparation of research papers and policy briefs, organizing webinars and workshops, identifying potential collaborators, monitoring developments in science and technology policy, and supporting knowledge management functions. The intern may also be involved in mapping technology transfer offices across the Asia-Pacific region and other tasks as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed a graduate program in relevant fields such as Communications, Journalism, Climate Change, Environment, Innovation, or International Relations. Alternatively, candidates who have recently graduated with a university degree in these areas and can start the internship within a year of graduation are also eligible. A good understanding of climate technologies and sustainable development is essential, along with experience in web-based research and digital content creation. Excellent written communication and networking skills are required, as well as proficiency in standard software applications and familiarity with AI tools and social media platforms.

Educational Background:
A graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent) in Communications, Journalism, Media Studies, Climate Change, Environment, Innovation, Sustainable Development, or International Relations related to science and technology is required. Candidates who have recently graduated with a relevant university degree and can commence the internship within a year of graduation are also eligible.

Experience:
While professional work experience is not mandatory for this internship, candidates should be computer literate and possess skills in data handling and proficiency in spreadsheets. Experience in community management, event coordination, or academic research is considered an advantage, but not a requirement.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is advantageous but not required.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of five days per week, totaling 37.5 hours. The minimum duration is three months, extendable up to six months based on APCTT requirements. Interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and candidates must provide accurate information in their applications. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of India may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization.