Intern - Pollution and Circular Economy

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Position Title: Intern - Pollution and Circular Economy
Location: Geneva, Remote
Country: Switzerland, Remote
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. UNEP was established in 1972 and operates in over 150 countries, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to environmental issues. UNEP works closely with governments, businesses, and civil society to enhance the capacity to integrate environmental considerations into economic, trade, and financial policies and practices, thereby contributing to sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The intern will join the Pollution and Circular Economy workstream within the UNEP Finance Initiative (UNEP FI), which is a unique global partnership between UNEP and the private financial sector. The intern will assist in implementing UNEP FI’s work programme related to pollution and circular economy, focusing on the transition to a more resource-efficient and circular economy. This position involves engaging with various stakeholders, conducting research, and supporting the development of guidance materials and case studies. The intern will have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge initiatives that aim to reduce pollution and promote sustainable practices within the financial sector, contributing to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's duties will include supporting internal work on pollution, particularly plastic and chemicals pollution, and circular economy initiatives. Responsibilities will involve conducting applied research on relevant topics, assisting in the development of UNEP FI support materials, and contributing to the Circular Economy Working Group's guidance documents for banks. The intern will also help establish a Circular Economy Community of Practice, support the Pollution Working Group's guidance on pollution for banks, and assist the Finance Leadership Group on Plastics. Additional tasks include conducting research on pollution and circular economy themes, collating information from various sources, coordinating communications with UNEP FI working groups, and providing project coordination and administrative support.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements: 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. Relevant experience and studies in finance, economics, sustainable development, environmental studies, international relations/affairs, or related fields are required. Professional work experience is not mandatory, but a field of study closely related to the internship is essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates should be pursuing or have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. Programme in a relevant field such as finance, economics, sustainable development, environmental studies, or international relations. Proof of enrollment or a copy of the degree certificate must be provided as part of the application process.

Experience:
While no professional work experience is required for this internship, candidates should have relevant academic experience or coursework that aligns with the internship's focus on pollution and circular economy. The internship is designed for students or recent graduates who are eager to apply their knowledge in a practical setting and contribute to UNEP's mission.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this internship. Knowledge of French or Spanish is desirable, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat.

Additional Notes:
The internship is expected to last for 6 months and is not financially remunerated. Interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Candidates who are not citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. The application process requires a completed application through the UN careers portal, including a Personal History Profile and Cover Note. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.