United Nations University (UNU) Junior Fellows Internship Program

The United Nations University Office of the Rector recruits highly qualified applicants to work as Junior Fellows at the UNU headquarters in Tokyo.

The programme provides opportunities for the development of new skills and knowledge and is a unique and constructive setting for the practical application of capacities acquired through graduate studies.

The programme opens with a one-week orientation designed to familiarize junior fellows with UNU, their co-workers, facilities and the working processes within the Office of the Rector. 

Successful candidates will contribute to the work of the Office of the Rector, the United Nations University, and the UN system as a whole. 

To be considered for the United Nations University Internship 2027, the candidate:

• is currently pursuing or has recently completed (within two years of application) postgraduate studies (master’s or doctoral), preferably in a field related to the University’s work;

• is under 32 years of age at the time of application;

• must not have more than 5 years of work experience in their related field;

• has a strong interest in:
  

  • International relations

• Development studies

• Public policy

• Interns who are not in receipt of financial support from other sources such as universities or other institutions, will receive a stipend from UNU to partially subsidise their basic living costs for the duration of the internship.  

• The monthly amount of the stipend will be determined for each duty station based on the stipend rates in effect.

• The stipend will be paid on a monthly basis and part-time internship arrangements are prorated accordingly.

• Duration of contract: The UNU internship lasts six months, and fellows will work at UNU headquarters in Tokyo from 1st March 2027 to 27th August 2027.

Participants in this programme have the opportunity to engage in a number of ongoing initiatives that provide a unique window into the working processes of the University. Junior Fellows support the work of the Office of the Rector in the following areas:

• administrative research and writing for institutional development: preparation of executive briefs on priority issues; background research and drafting of topical information briefs in support of internal policy development (i.e. related to the functioning of the University);

• planning: supporting the development of project management tools and systems;

• in person and online event coordination: supporting the organization of lectures, conferences, workshops, and other public events;

• meeting coordination: logistical support and minute taking;

• editorial support: proof-reading reports and copy editing;

• communication: preparation and dissemination of newsletters, event summaries, and other communication documents.

To apply for the United Nations University Internship, interested and qualified applicants should follow the procedures below;

• 1

  Click on the bottom below to visit UNU career page

• 2

  Prepare your required documents for the online application

• 3

  Answer a few questions that are tailored to the position.

• 4

  Upload documents and submit your application by November 1.