Internship in Technology and Innovation Policy Research

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Conference for Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is a part of the United Nations that focuses on trade, investment, and development issues. Established in 1964, UNCTAD aims to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization has a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries, working towards sustainable development and economic growth. UNCTAD's mission is to support developing countries in their efforts to achieve inclusive and sustainable development through trade and investment.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is designed to provide students or recent graduates with hands-on experience in the field of technology and innovation policy research. Interns will work remotely and are expected to commit to a full-time schedule of five days a week, totaling 40 hours. The internship will commence in July 2025 and will last for an initial period of three months, with the possibility of extension. Interns will assist the Technology and Innovation Policy Research Section in conducting research and analysis related to the issue paper 'Science, Technology and Innovation in the age of AI.' This role will involve participating in online meetings, compiling information on technology trends, assisting in both quantitative and qualitative research, and preparing drafts and documents as directed by supervisors. The internship aims to enhance the intern's educational experience while contributing to UNCTAD's mission of promoting development through technology and innovation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: participating in online meetings with supervisors and team members; compiling information and data on technology and innovation trends; assisting in the analysis of innovation and industrial policies related to development; conducting quantitative and qualitative research; preparing short drafts on specific issues as directed by supervisors; developing charts and graphs; and providing substantive support in the preparation of relevant documents such as presentations and project documents. Interns are also expected to adhere to UN regulations and directives, respect confidentiality, and maintain impartiality in their work.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher), or be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent). Additionally, interns should be computer literate in standard software applications, have a keen interest in the work of the United Nations, and demonstrate the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. No prior work experience is required, but a relevant field of study is necessary.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be enrolled in or have completed a graduate program or the final year of an undergraduate program. This educational background should be closely related to the internship's focus on technology and innovation policy. The internship is designed to enhance the educational experience of students or recent graduates, providing them with practical exposure to the workings of the United Nations.

Experience:
No prior work experience is required for this internship position. However, candidates should possess relevant academic training or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the internship. The focus is on providing an opportunity for students or recent graduates to gain experience in a professional setting, particularly in the context of international development and policy research.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for this internship. Knowledge of French is considered an advantage, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in English, as this will be essential for participating in meetings and preparing documents.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of 40 hours per week. Interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. The initial duration of the internship is three months, with the possibility of extension up to six months. Candidates will be assessed based on their Personal History Profiles (PHP), and individual interviews may be conducted for further assessment. A complete online application, including a Cover Note and Personal History Profile, is required. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. It is important to note that there is no expectation of employment within the UN following the internship, and interns are not eligible to apply for professional positions within the UN for six months after their internship ends. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.