UNEP FI Risk Centre Internship

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. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and has established itself as a key player in addressing environmental issues on a global scale. The organization was established in 1972 and operates in over 150 countries, employing thousands of individuals dedicated to environmental sustainability. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices and to help implement the environmental dimension of sustainable development in the context of the United Nations system.

Job Overview:
The UNEP FI Risk Centre is seeking an intern to support its climate and nature risk specialists in delivering a comprehensive programme of events and publications aimed at risk professionals. The intern will play a crucial role in advancing the understanding of key topics at the intersection of climate, nature, and finance. This includes working on climate and nature data, climate scenario analysis, sustainability risk management integration, and best practices for disclosure. The Risk Centre leverages the UN's convening power to develop best practices for measuring and managing climate and nature risks and opportunities. The intern will assist in implementing the UNEP FI Risk Centre’s 2025/2026 programme and planning for the 2027 programme, contributing to the development of tools, papers, workshops, and other outputs that empower the financial sector to address critical sustainability issues more effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's duties will include researching the latest developments in risk assessment and management practices, evaluating financial sector practices related to climate risks and opportunities, and assisting with the drafting and editing of research project outputs, including publications and tools. The intern will support the day-to-day coordination of research project management and Risk Centre communications, assist with event preparations, and manage various operational tasks such as email and calendar management. Additionally, the intern will build a network with members, partners, and other UN teams and work on other relevant tasks to ensure the success of the programme.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements at the time of application: be enrolled in a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher), be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor's level or equivalent), or have graduated with a university degree and must commence the internship within a one-year period of graduation. A background in economics, social sciences, natural sciences, environmental science, public policy, sustainable development, business administration, finance, or a related field is required. While professional work experience is not mandatory, a field of study closely related to the internship is essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be a student in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in a Master’s or Ph.D. Programme, or have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. Programme. Proof of enrollment or graduation must be provided with the application, and an official certificate will be required at a later stage.

Experience:
While no professional work experience is required for this internship, applicants should have a strong academic background in a relevant field. The internship is designed for students or recent graduates who are looking to gain practical experience in the field of environmental finance and sustainability.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this internship. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in both languages will enhance communication and collaboration within the team and with external partners.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially remunerated 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. It is important for successful candidates to 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.