Statistics Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD) is part of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA). The UNSD is dedicated to the collection, analysis, and dissemination of statistical information to support the work of the United Nations and its member states. The organization aims to enhance the capacity of countries to produce and use high-quality statistics for evidence-based decision-making. Established in 1946, the UNSD operates globally, engaging with various stakeholders across multiple countries to improve statistical practices and methodologies. The division employs a diverse team of professionals who work collaboratively to address global statistical challenges and promote the use of statistics in sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Statistics Intern position is designed for individuals who are eager to gain practical experience in the field of statistics within the United Nations framework. Interns will work closely with various branches of the UNSD, contributing to a range of statistical projects that support the division's mission. The internship is structured to provide hands-on experience in data collection, analysis, and dissemination, allowing interns to engage with real-world statistical challenges. Interns will have the opportunity to work on projects related to economic statistics, demographic and social statistics, environmental data, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The role requires a commitment to full-time work, typically five days a week, and while the internship is primarily in-person, there may be flexibility for remote or hybrid arrangements depending on the intern's situation. This position is unpaid, and candidates should be prepared to manage their own living expenses during the internship period.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be involved in a variety of tasks that contribute to the overall objectives of the UNSD. Responsibilities include: - Creating research and written contributions for reports and other documentation. - Developing software prototypes using programming languages such as Python. - Producing content for outreach efforts, including social media. - Assisting in the design, organization, planning, and management of statistical data collection and analysis. - Supporting the development and management of statistical databases and dashboards. - Providing training and technical support on data collection programs and practices. - Conducting methodological research to inform technical documentation. - Preparing draft technical documents for international meetings and assisting in report drafting. - Organizing seminars, working groups, and expert meetings. - Engaging in communication efforts, including data storytelling and visualization. - Performing other duties as assigned by supervisors.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: (a) be enrolled in or have completed a graduate program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); (b) be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's degree or equivalent). While professional work experience is not required, candidates should have a field of study closely related to the internship. Proficiency in standard software applications, particularly the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams), is essential. Desirable skills include the ability to draft and edit various types of written content, analyze and visualize data, work with databases, and design surveys. Familiarity with programming in Python or similar languages is also advantageous.

Educational Background:
Candidates should be pursuing or have completed a degree in a relevant field, such as statistics, economics, social sciences, data science, or a related discipline. Applicants must be students in their final year of a bachelor's degree program, or enrolled in a master's or Ph.D. program, or have completed such programs. Proof of enrollment or completion will be required during the application process.

Experience:
While no prior professional work experience is necessary, candidates should have relevant academic experience or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the internship. This may include projects, research, or coursework that demonstrates familiarity with statistical methods, data analysis, and software development.

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 considered an advantage and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid, and candidates are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States may need to secure the appropriate visa and work authorization. The internship is expected to last between 2 to 6 months, with the possibility of extension based on departmental needs. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and candidates should be wary of any requests for personal financial information.