United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD) – Research Internship 2025 (Remote/Flexible)

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United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD) – Research Internship 2025 (Remote/Flexible)

Research Intern
Closing Date: 30 May 2025
Vacancy Number: Research Internship 2025
Organization: United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD)
Division/Department: Office of the Director
Reports To: UNRISD Director
Location: Geneva (Switzerland), Bonn (Germany), or Hybrid (remote with possible in-person meetings)
Contract Type: Intern
Duration: 3 to 6 months (flexible based on availability)
Expected Start Period: July–September 2025 (exact dates to be mutually agreed)
Application Deadline for the July–September 2025 period: 30 May 2025, 23:59 Central European Time

About UNRISD

The United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD) is an autonomous research institute operating within the UN system. Dedicated to interdisciplinary research and policy analysis, UNRISD explores the social dimensions of contemporary development challenges. Our core mission is to ensure that social equity, inclusion, and justice are central to development policies and practices worldwide.

As part of its efforts to support the Second World Summit for Social Development and broader social development goals, UNRISD is offering a valuable internship opportunity for motivated individuals eager to contribute to research, policy analysis, and knowledge dissemination on vital social issues affecting development globally.

Internship Overview

This internship provides an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates in social sciences and related fields to gain firsthand experience working within an international research environment. Interns will assist in producing high-quality research outputs, policy briefs, and reports that influence global development discussions, particularly in relation to social development agendas and the SDGs.

Main Responsibilities:

Conduct foundational research, including literature reviews, fact-finding, and policy analysis on topics related to the Second World Summit for Social Development and other relevant social development issues.
Summarize and synthesize insights from reports, academic papers, and expert discussions to support policy analysis.
Attend and report on meetings, conferences, and policy discussions relevant to the Summit and UNRISD’s research agenda.
Assist in the preparation, editing, and formatting of UNRISD publications, policy briefs, and other outreach materials—ensuring accuracy, proper citation, and adherence to publication standards.
Accompany the UNRISD Director to key meetings, take detailed notes, record action points, and follow up on correspondence and tasks assigned.
Participate actively in internal meetings focused on research projects, strategy, and organizational planning.
Provide limited administrative support, such as scheduling meetings, booking rooms, and coordinating event logistics, as needed.

Qualifications, Skills, and Competencies

Educational Background:
Enrolled in a graduate program (Master’s or higher) in social sciences, development studies, international relations, public policy, or related fields; or
Completed a university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) within the past year, with eligibility to commence the internship within 12 months of graduation.
Research & Analytical Skills:
Proven ability to conduct thorough literature reviews, policy analysis, and synthesize complex information into clear, concise summaries.
Communication Skills:
Excellent written and spoken English; proficiency in additional UN languages (French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian) is an asset.
Familiarity with Global Development Agendas:
Knowledge of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and current debates on social development issues.
Organizational Skills:
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple assignments efficiently.
Technical Skills:
Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel). Experience with research databases, online repositories, and basic data analysis is desirable.
Personal Attributes:
Strong interest in social development issues, cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and an eagerness to learn.

Internship Conditions

Location & Attendance:
Interns must be based in Geneva or Bonn or be available for hybrid work arrangements, including attending meetings or events in person when required.
Remuneration:
UNRISD internships are unpaid. Interns are responsible for covering their own travel, accommodation, and health insurance expenses. UNRISD does not provide financial support for these costs.
Eligibility:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
Enrolled in a graduate program (Master’s or higher).
Enrolled in the final year of a Bachelor’s program and eligible to commence within 12 months of graduation.
Recently graduated (within the last year).
Work Schedule:
The internship requires a commitment of at least 24 hours per week, flexible within the period of 3 to 6 months.

Duration & Start Date

The internship is available for a minimum of three months and a maximum of six months.
The expected start date is in July, August, or September 2025, with flexible scheduling to accommodate candidate availability.
Precise start and end dates will be agreed upon during the selection process.

Application Process

Interested candidates are invited to submit their application consisting of:

A Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting relevant education, skills, and experience.
A short cover letter (maximum 1 page) outlining your motivation to apply, your interest in social development issues, and how your background aligns with the internship.

Please include your preferred internship period and availability.

How to Apply:
Applicants should submit their application via the online portal. Ensure all documents are uploaded before the deadline.

Deadline for applications:
30 May 2025, 23:59 Central European Time

Selection & Notification

Candidates will be shortlisted based on academic background, relevant skills, and motivation. Shortlisted applicants may be contacted for interviews in early June. Successful interns will be notified shortly thereafter.

Join Us

This internship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to global social development research, deepen your understanding of international policy issues, and gain valuable experience working within a UN-affiliated institution. If you are passionate about social justice, equity, and sustainable development, we encourage you to apply and become part of our dedicated team working towards a more inclusive and equitable world.