United Nations University (UNU) · UNU Centre, Tokyo, Japan.
Applications are open for the United Nations University (UNU) Junior Fellows Internship Programme 2027, offering graduate students and recent postgraduate graduates an opportunity to gain practical experience within the United Nations system. The programme is hosted by the Office of the Rector at UNU headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, and is designed for young scholars and professionals interested in international development, research, public policy, institutional administration and global affairs.
The Spring 2027 internship is expected to run from March 1 to August 27, 2027, for approximately six months. Applicants based in Japan and those living overseas are eligible to be considered for the Spring 2027 intake, subject to the programme requirements.
Through this opportunity, Junior Fellows contribute to the work of the Office of the Rector while developing professional skills in an international institutional environment. Participants gain exposure to the administrative and operational processes of a United Nations institution and learn how research, communication, planning and coordination support the university’s wider mission.
The programme is particularly suitable for candidates seeking to apply their postgraduate education in a professional setting and build experience relevant to careers in international organisations, public policy, research, education and development.
The United Nations University is a global research and policy institution that contributes knowledge and research to address challenges related to sustainable development, peace, human welfare and other pressing international issues. It works with universities, research institutions, United Nations agencies and other partners to support evidence informed approaches to global challenges.
The Junior Fellows Internship Programme connects emerging professionals with the activities of the Office of the Rector. Interns support institutional initiatives while learning about the operations of UNU and the wider United Nations system.
The programme begins with an orientation period intended to familiarise participants with the university, their colleagues, facilities and working processes. Throughout the placement, Junior Fellows receive guidance and practical experience while undertaking assignments that contribute to the work of the office.
Interns generally work full time during regular university working hours, Monday to Friday. The programme may involve on site work in Tokyo, with some flexibility for remote work depending on the applicable arrangements.
Selected Junior Fellows can benefit from:
• Monthly stipend: Eligible interns receive a monthly stipend to partially subsidise basic living expenses, including transportation to and from UNU headquarters. The amount depends on the applicable duty station rate.
• Practical United Nations experience: Gain first hand experience working within a United Nations institution.
• Professional development: Strengthen research, writing, analytical, communication and administrative skills.
• Institutional exposure: Learn about the work of the Office of the Rector and the operations of the United Nations University.
• Research and policy experience: Contribute to background research, executive briefs and institutional information documents.
• Event coordination experience: Assist with conferences, workshops, lectures, meetings and academic forums.
• International professional networks: Work with colleagues from different professional and cultural backgrounds.
• Learning resources: Access UNU headquarters library and gym facilities, subject to availability and programme arrangements.
• Career preparation: Develop experience that may support future applications for roles in international development, research, policy and administration.
Please note that the stipend is intended to provide partial financial support. Applicants should not assume that it will cover all accommodation and living expenses in Tokyo.
Junior Fellows may support activities in several areas of the Office of the Rector, including:
• Administrative research and writing: Conduct background research, prepare executive briefs and draft information documents supporting institutional development and internal policy work.
• Planning and project management: Help develop project management tools, systems and processes.
• Event coordination: Assist with the planning and organisation of online and in person conferences, lectures, workshops and public events.
• Meeting coordination: Provide logistical support, prepare meeting documentation and record minutes.
• Editorial support: Proofread reports, edit documents and help improve written communications.
• Communications: Prepare newsletters, event summaries and other materials to communicate UNU activities.
Assignments depend on institutional priorities and the needs of the Office of the Rector.
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
• Be currently pursuing a postgraduate degree at master’s or doctoral level, or have completed postgraduate studies within the two years preceding the application.
• Be under 32 years of age at the time of application.
• Have no more than five years of relevant professional experience in their field.
• Demonstrate native or fluent written and spoken English.
• Possess strong research, writing and analytical skills.
• Demonstrate the ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Show resourcefulness, creativity and sound problem solving skills.
• Have advanced computer skills, including practical knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
• Have a demonstrated interest in the United Nations and the work of the United Nations University.
• Be able to meet the practical requirements of the internship, including access to a suitable computer and reliable internet if working remotely.
Applicants with strong Microsoft Excel skills and familiarity with information and communication technology tools may have an advantage.
Applicants should prepare the following documents and information:
• Current CV: Submit an updated CV in English, limited to two single sided pages. Upload it in the section designated for the P11 Form. The P11 Form is not required for this internship.
• Cover letter: Provide a cover letter in English of no more than one single sided page. Explain your motivation for applying, how you could contribute to the Office of the Rector and how the internship relates to your future career goals.
• Application form: Complete the application form and answer the questions relevant to the position.
• Funding form: Outline the sources, amounts and duration of actual or expected financial support while in Tokyo.
• Two letters of recommendation: Arrange for two referees familiar with your academic abilities, professional performance or personal character to submit recommendations. At least one referee is expected to be a professor who knows your academic abilities. Referees must not be family members or friends.
• English language certification, where required: Applicants whose native language is not English and who have neither completed an undergraduate programme taught in English nor enrolled in a graduate programme taught in English must provide a valid TOEFL, IELTS or TOEIC score report.
Recommendation letters must be submitted directly by the referees using official institutional, academic or corporate email addresses. Letters submitted by applicants themselves will not be accepted.
UNU Centre, Tokyo, Japan.
United Nations University (UNU)
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