Intern - Science-Policy Unit

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Position Title: Intern - Science-Policy Unit
Location: Panama City
Country: Panama
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the designated entity within the United Nations system for addressing environmental issues at both global and regional levels. UNEP's mission is to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus, ensuring that the global environment is continuously monitored and that emerging issues are brought to the attention of governments and the international community for action. Established in 1972, UNEP operates in over 100 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to environmental sustainability and policy development. The Latin America and the Caribbean Office, located in Panama City, works closely with 33 countries in the region, including 16 small island developing states, serving a population of approximately 650 million people. The office's activities are integrated into the work programs approved by the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA).

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position within the Science-Policy Unit at UNEP's Latin America and the Caribbean Office is designed to provide support for the regional Environment under Review Subprogramme. Interns will engage in research and administrative support to enhance the quality and scope of the program. The internship is full-time, requiring interns to work five days a week for 40 hours under the supervision of a staff member. The primary objective of the Science-Policy subprogramme is to deliver timely, scientifically credible, and policy-relevant environmental analyses, data, and information to aid decision-making and action planning for sustainable development. Interns will be involved in monitoring and analyzing the state of the global environment, assessing environmental trends, and providing early warnings of emerging threats. The internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in environmental policy and data management while contributing to significant projects aimed at sustainable development in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Providing general support for the implementation of the biennial workplan of the Science-Policy Subprogramme.
• Ensuring smooth coordination and regular communication with focal points of UNEP's Regional Environmental Information Network (REIN), facilitating meetings and activities as requested.
• Following up with countries regarding the production of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) indicators where UNEP serves as the custodian agency.
• Assisting in the continuous updating and enrichment of the regional data platform maintained by UNEP.
• Conducting secondary data research to support the development of concept notes, proposals, policy briefs, or activities.
• Supporting the preparation of communications pieces, technical briefing notes, news articles, draft reports, and publications as necessary.
• Assisting in the start-up phase of projects as required.
• Helping organize meetings, training sessions, and workshops.
• Supporting other activities as requested by the supervising staff members.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet the following qualifications: - Be enrolled in a master’s degree program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher) in Engineering, Economics, Statistics, Environmental Science, or a related field. - Alternatively, candidates may be enrolled in the final academic year of a Bachelor’s degree program in the same fields. - Candidates who have graduated with a university degree in the relevant fields may also apply, provided they commence the internship within one year of graduation.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes enrollment in a master's degree program or being in the final year of a bachelor's degree program in relevant fields such as Engineering, Economics, Statistics, or Environmental Science. Graduates in these fields who have completed their studies within the last year are also eligible to apply.

Experience:
No prior working experience is required to apply for this internship. However, candidates should possess relevant training, education, or advanced coursework that would benefit the United Nations during their internship. This position is particularly suitable for individuals looking to gain practical experience in environmental policy and data management.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English and Spanish is mandatory for this internship, as the work will involve research and communication in both languages. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
This 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 Panama may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. The internship is expected to last between three to six months, starting on April 1, 202

• Interns will work full-time, and specific work hours will be determined through discussions between the intern and their supervisor, taking into account the organization's minimum requirements and any time differences. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.