Junior Fellows Internship

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations University (UNU) has been a prominent think tank for over four decades, focusing on impartial research addressing critical global issues such as human survival, conflict prevention, development, and welfare. With a workforce of more than 400 researchers operating across 13 countries, UNU's initiatives encompass the full spectrum of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The organization is dedicated to generating policy-relevant knowledge aimed at fostering positive global change. Furthermore, UNU collaborates with over 200 UN agencies, leading universities, and research institutions worldwide, enhancing its impact and outreach. For more information, please visit http://unu.edu.

Job Overview:
The Junior Fellows internship-programme" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Internship Programme at the Office of the Rector of the United Nations University is designed to recruit highly qualified graduate students interested in the work of the United Nations, particularly UNU. This competitive program is held twice a year, offering graduate students and young professionals a dynamic, challenging, and rewarding experience. Successful candidates will contribute to the Office of the Rector's work and the broader UN system, gaining valuable skills and knowledge applicable to their future careers. The program emphasizes training, guidance, and hands-on experience, starting with a one-week orientation to familiarize junior fellows with UNU's operations and their colleagues. This internship is an excellent opportunity for candidates to apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting while supporting UNU's mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Junior Fellows will engage in various initiatives that provide insight into UNU's operational processes. Their responsibilities include: conducting administrative research and writing for institutional development, preparing executive briefs on priority issues, and drafting topical information briefs to support internal policy development; assisting in planning by developing project management tools and systems; utilizing analytical tools, including Microsoft Excel, to conduct internal analyses on university operations; coordinating in-person and online events, including lectures, conferences, and workshops; providing logistical support and minute-taking during meetings; offering editorial support through proofreading reports and copy editing; and preparing and disseminating newsletters and other communication documents.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be currently pursuing or have recently completed postgraduate studies (master’s or doctoral), preferably in a field related to UNU's work. They should be at or under 32 years of age at the time of application and must not have more than 5 years of work experience in their related field. A native or fluent command of written and spoken English is essential, along with excellent research, writing, and analytical skills. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds, show resourcefulness and creativity in problem-solving, and possess advanced computer skills, particularly in MS Office applications. Familiarity with ICT tools and proficiency in Microsoft Excel are desirable. A demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and UNU is also required.

Educational Background:
The ideal educational background for this position includes a postgraduate degree (master’s or doctoral) in a field relevant to the work of the United Nations University. Candidates should be currently enrolled in or have recently completed their studies within the last two years, ensuring they are well-versed in contemporary issues and methodologies pertinent to UNU's mission.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have limited professional experience, specifically not exceeding five years in their related field. This limitation ensures that the internship remains accessible to recent graduates and those still pursuing their academic qualifications, allowing them to gain practical experience without extensive prior work history.

Languages:
A native or fluent command of English is mandatory for this position. While English proficiency is essential, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly languages relevant to UNU's global operations and collaborations.

Additional Notes:
The internship duration is approximately six months, with an expected start date of 1st March 2027 and an end date of 27th August 202

• Junior Fellows will work full-time during regular university hours (9:30–17:30, Monday to Friday) and are entitled to 1.5 days of leave per month. The internship is primarily on-site at UNU headquarters in Tokyo, with some flexibility for remote work. A monthly stipend will be provided to assist with living costs, and interns will have access to the UNU library and gym facilities. The application process involves multiple stages, including submission of a CV, cover letter, and letters of recommendation, followed by interviews and a short assignment. It is important to note that this internship does not guarantee future employment with UNU, and interns do not hold international civil servant status.