Intern Research Assistant

Intern Research Assistant

United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UNHABITAT)

August 23, 2026September 24, 2026TunisTunisia
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) was established in 1975 and is mandated by the UN General Assembly to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities. The organization serves as the focal point for all urbanization and human settlement matters within the UN system. UN-Habitat collaborates with various partners to build inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and communities, advocating for urbanization as a transformative force that reduces inequality, discrimination, and poverty. Tunisia has been a member of the United Nations since November 13, 1956, and UN-Habitat has had a presence in the country since 2017, transitioning from a project office to a country office in 201
  • The office also serves as a sub-regional office for Algeria and Libya. Currently, the UN system in Tunisia comprises 27 specialized agencies, funds, and programs that operate according to their respective mandates. UN-Habitat works closely with the office of the Resident Coordinator in Tunisia, aligning its activities with the cooperation framework document for sustainable development signed in December 2020 with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Job Overview:
The Intern Research Assistant position at UN-Habitat involves supporting research related to ongoing or upcoming projects, elaborating reports that analyze various themes and issues, and assisting with day-to-day tasks related to program development and fundraising opportunities. The intern will also be responsible for taking minutes during meetings for the Head of Office and performing any other tasks relevant to the mandates of UN-Habitat as requested by the Head of Office. This role provides an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field of urban development and human settlements while contributing to the mission of promoting sustainable urbanization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including:
  • Supporting research efforts related to current and future projects undertaken by UN-Habitat.
  • Preparing and elaborating reports that analyze different thematic areas and problematics relevant to urban development.
  • Assisting in the daily operations of program development and identifying opportunities for mobilizing funds.
  • Taking detailed minutes during meetings for the Head of Office to ensure accurate records of discussions and decisions.
  • Performing any additional tasks that align with the mandates of UN-Habitat as directed by the Head of Office, which may include administrative support and coordination with other team members.

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 in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor's level or equivalent), c. Have graduated with a Bachelor's degree, Master's, PhD, or equivalent. Additionally, candidates should be computer literate in standard software applications, particularly the Microsoft Office Suite. A demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and a personal commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter are essential. Candidates should also exhibit the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs, showing a willingness to understand and tolerate differing opinions and views.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes being a student in the final year of a first university degree (Bachelor's or equivalent), or being enrolled in a Master's or Ph.D. program, or having completed such programs. Preferred areas of study include Management, Political Science, Architecture, Urban Planning, Economy, and law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">International Law. While professional work experience is not required for applicants to the UN Internship Programme, a field of study closely related to the internship is necessary.

Experience:
While applicants are not required to have professional work experience, it is essential that their field of study is closely related to the internship they are applying for. This means that candidates should have relevant academic training or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the Intern Research Assistant position.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English and French is required for this internship position, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of Arabic is considered desirable, and familiarity with another UN language is also advantageous.

Additional Notes:
Interns at UN-Habitat are not financially remunerated, 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 Tunisia may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements prior to accepting the internship offer. Additionally, it is emphasized that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training.
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