Intern - Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN's global development network, advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, focusing on eradicating poverty, reducing inequalities, and building resilience to sustain progress. The organization emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that all personnel can contribute to its mission and that underserved populations are represented. UNDP's Nature Pledge integrates environmental considerations into development, supporting over 140 countries in achieving biodiversity targets. The organization also coordinates initiatives like the Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN) and PANORAMA, which promote sustainable development and conservation solutions.

Job Overview:
The intern will be an integral part of the BIOFIN global team, primarily supporting knowledge management and communication activities. This position is designed for individuals who are passionate about biodiversity finance and eager to contribute to global efforts in this area. The intern will engage in various tasks, including researching and documenting BIOFIN's work across its core countries, assisting in the development of knowledge products, and contributing to communication efforts. The role offers a unique opportunity to learn about biodiversity finance and gain practical experience in a multilateral organization, enhancing skills in communication, coordination, and analysis.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's responsibilities will include:

• Researching, collecting, analyzing, and documenting BIOFIN's activities in over 41 core countries, focusing on financing solutions for biodiversity conservation.
• Assisting in updating the BIOFIN finance solutions database with new entries.
• Contributing to the development of knowledge products, including cross-country analyses and guidance materials for BIOFIN teams.
• Synthesizing research outcomes and lessons learned into tailored formats for thematic activities.
• Supporting the organization of events, webinars, and meetings, including documentation of these events.
• Assisting in communications efforts, such as writing blogs and articles, and maintaining a social media presence.
• Monitoring and analyzing media coverage of BIOFIN and updating relevant databases.
• Supporting other ad hoc activities as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

• Be enrolled in a postgraduate degree program (master's or higher).
• Be in the final academic year of a first university degree program (bachelor's or equivalent).
• Have recently graduated with a university degree and must start the internship within one year of graduation.
• Be enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship program and undertake the internship as part of this program. Previous related work experience is an asset, along with excellent writing skills demonstrated through academic or professional experience. Knowledge in biodiversity, conservation, finance, and communication activities is also beneficial.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to be enrolled in or have recently graduated from a university program. This includes those in postgraduate degree programs or final year undergraduate students. The educational background should ideally be related to environmental studies, finance, or a similar field that aligns with biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have some level of previous related work experience, which could include internships or volunteer work in relevant fields. Experience in writing, particularly in professional or academic contexts, is essential. Familiarity with biodiversity, conservation, and finance-related areas will be advantageous, as will experience in communication activities and social media management.

Languages:
Proficiency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Fluency in French is highly desirable, and knowledge of another UN language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate in a diverse, multicultural environment.

Additional Notes:
The internship is structured to last a minimum of 6 weeks and a maximum of 6 months. Interns will receive stipends according to UN rules and regulations, but they must cover their own costs for travel, accommodation, and subsistence. Selected candidates must submit proof of enrollment in a graduate-level program and valid medical and life/accident insurance. Interns are not considered staff members and cannot represent UNDP officially. The internship is intended to complement the intern's studies, and there is no expectation of employment following the internship.