UNDP is Hiring for Data Science Intern (3 Internship Positions)

EugenApril 17, 2025

3 minutes read

UNDP is Hiring for Data Science Intern (3 Internship Positions)

Data Science Intern – Investigations Section – Global Fund Unit (3 Internship Positions)
Location: New York, United States
Agency: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Vacancy Type: Internship Programme
Practice Area: Management
Office: Office of Audit and Investigations (OAI)
Contract Duration: 6 Months
Job Identification: 25661
Posting Date: April 10, 2025
Application Deadline: April 25, 2025
Job Schedule: Full Time

Vacancy Overview

Background:

The Investigations Section of the Office of Audit and Investigations (OAI) is inviting applications for three (3) internship positions within its Global Fund Investigations Unit. This internship opportunity is designed for six months, commencing around June 1, 2025. The Global Fund Investigations Unit is dedicated to investigating allegations of misconduct within the context of UNDP’s Global Fund-funded grant implementations. These allegations encompass various forms of wrongdoing, including fraud, corruption, workplace harassment, retaliation against whistleblowers, and more severe violations that undermine the integrity of UNDP operations.

OAI’s mandate also extends to irregularities committed by contractors, implementing partners, and other third parties that may financially harm UNDP. Investigations are conducted in alignment with the UNDP’s Legal Framework for Addressing Non-Compliance with UN Standards of Conduct and the OAI Investigation Guidelines.

This recruitment process aims to fill three internship roles for the fiscal year 2025, with successful applicants expected to start around June 1, 2025.

Duties and Responsibilities

As a Data Science Intern, you will play a vital role in assisting the Investigations Section by leveraging technology and data-driven methodologies to enhance audit and investigation initiatives. Your contributions may include:

Evaluating Technologies: Analyze the potential application of advanced data analytics, machine learning (ML), artificial intelligence (AI), and process automation technologies to broaden the scope and impact of fraud investigations.
Prototype Development: Collaborate in designing and developing functional prototypes that illustrate innovative uses of data analytics, ML, AI, or automation to facilitate fraud detection, investigative analysis, and audit procedures.
Tool Enhancement: Play a supportive role in refining and upgrading existing tools and prototypes. Your input will help investigations personnel seamlessly integrate these innovative solutions into their daily workflows.
Efficiency Improvements: Engage in projects aimed at boosting the overall efficiency, accuracy, and effectiveness of investigative assignments through data-driven solutions, thus enhancing overall operational outcomes.
Documentation of Findings: Maintain comprehensive records of findings, functionalities, and practical use cases to promote knowledge sharing and ensure replicability within the investigative team.

Competencies

Successful candidates should exhibit the following competencies:

Integrity: Demonstrates a strong commitment to ethical practices and transparency.
Objectivity: Maintains neutrality and independence in all assignments.
Cultural Sensitivity: Recognizes and respects diverse cultures and perspectives.
Quality Production: Consistently produces high-quality and timely outputs.
Judgment and Analysis: Exercises sound judgement in decision-making processes.
Task Management: Capably manages multiple tasks simultaneously, prioritizing effectively.
Communication Skills: Exhibits clear writing and effective speaking abilities, conveying information convincingly.

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

Candidates must meet one of the following criteria:

Enrolled in a postgraduate degree program in Data Science, Computer Science, Finance, or related fields, ideally with a focus on AI and ML.
In the final academic year of a bachelor’s degree program in Data Science, Computer Science, Finance, or a related discipline, preferably with an emphasis on AI and ML.
Recently graduated from a relevant university degree program, beginning the internship within one year of graduation.
Enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship program that incorporates this internship as part of the curriculum.

Experience:

Proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) is essential.
Hands-on experience in developing, testing, and applying AI or ML technologies for cognitive analysis and process automation is required.
Familiarity with programming languages and tools used in AI and machine learning, such as Python, R, and SQL.
Knowledge of forensic fraud investigations or internal audits is an advantage.

Working Languages

Mandatory: Fluency in written and spoken English.
Desirable: Proficiency in French, Russian, Arabic, or Spanish is highly advantageous. Additional knowledge of any other official United Nations languages will further enhance your application.

Work Arrangements

Internship positions will be located at UNDP Headquarters in New York, although remote work arrangements may be considered by OAI.
If working from home, interns should utilize their own laptops/notebooks.
Internships are full-time commitments.
Selected candidates will commence their internship around June 1, 2025, for a six-month term.

Application Process

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by submitting a single file that includes:

A current curriculum vitae (CV).
A cover letter (maximum 500 words) addressing the following:

Your motivation for applying for this specific internship role.
Your availability for a full-time internship with OAI.

Please note that the UNDP job site allows for only one upload of application documents; ensure all your materials are merged into a single file before submission.