Applications for the 2026/2027 United Nations University Junior Fellows Internship Programme are now open. Graduate students around the globe interested in the work of the United Nations — and in particular, UNU — are encouraged to apply early as the programme is a very competitive one.
The underlying principles of the Junior Fellows Internship Programme at the Office of the Rector are centred on creating a dynamic, challenging and rewarding experience for graduate level students and young professionals. Successful candidates will contribute to the work of the Office of the Rector, the United Nations University, and the UN system as a whole.
SUMMARY:
- Company/Organisation(s): United Nations University
- Program Type: Graduate Internship
- Program Location: Tokyo, Japan
- Program Duration: 3-4 months
- Available Slot: Not Specified
- Basic Qualifications: Recent graduates
- Nationality: All Nationalities
Also Check: United Nations University-IAS Scholarships in Japan [Fully Funded]
Purpose of the United Nations University Internship Programme
The purpose of the Junior Fellows Internship Programme at the Office of the Rector is:
- to promote interaction and dialogue between young scholars, professionals and UNU;
- to familiarize junior fellows with the activities of the Office of the Rector and the work of UNU;
- to provide opportunities for young professionals to gain in-depth, hands-on experience in a UN agency;
- to expose young professionals to an administrative working environment, and;
- to provide support to activities within the Office of the Rector.
Eligibility Criteria
The qualifications that are considered in each application process include, but are not limited to, the following. 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 native or fluent command of written and spoken English;
- has excellent research, writing and analytical skills;
- can establish and maintain effective working relations with people from diverse backgrounds;
- demonstrates resourcefulness and creativity in problem-solving;
- has advanced computer skills: sound, hands-on, knowledge of MS Office applications (familiarity with ICT tools and high level of proficiency in Microsoft Excel are desirable);
- has a demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and more specifically, in the work of the United Nations University.
Recommended: United Nations Graduate Study Programme 2027
Program Benefits
- The UNU Junior Fellow Interns are entitled to 1.5 days of leave per month.
- The Interns are provided office space and facilities, as appropriate for their work.
- The interns receive a monthly stipend which includes a transportation allowance for their commute to and from UNU headquarters building.
- They are given access to the UNU headquarter library
- They are given free membership to the UNU headquarter gym
Application Procedures
How-to-Apply: Junior Fellows are recruited through a competitive application process twice per year. Details on the position and how to apply can be found on the UNU Careers website via careers.unu.edu. Applications after deadline might only be treated in the next round or the applicant might need to re-apply.
Application Deadline: Not Specified.
