Deadline 2026-11-01
Country Japan
Level masters, phd
Organization United Nations University (UNU)
Field International Relations, Development Studies, Public Policy, Sustainable Development, Social Sciences
Funding partial Overview
This is an internship opportunity for Junior Fellows at the United Nations University (UNU) headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. The program is designed for graduate-level students and young professionals interested in the work of the United Nations and UNU. It aims to provide a dynamic, challenging, and rewarding experience, allowing successful candidates to contribute to the work of the Office of the Rector and the broader UN system, while developing new skills and knowledge.
Coverage
Interns who do not receive financial support from other sources (like universities or other institutions, excluding academic scholarships) will receive a stipend from UNU. This stipend is intended to partially subsidize their basic living costs for the duration of the internship. The monthly amount of the stipend will be determined based on the stipend rates in effect for the duty station (Tokyo).
Eligibility
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be currently pursuing or have recently completed (within two years of application) postgraduate studies (Master’s or Doctoral level), preferably in a field related to UNU’s work.
- Be 32 years of age or under at the time of application.
- Have no more than 5 years of work experience in their related field.
- Possess a native or fluent command of written and spoken English.
- Demonstrate excellent research, writing, and analytical skills.
- Be able to establish and maintain effective working relations with people from diverse backgrounds.
- Show resourcefulness and creativity in problem-solving.
- Have advanced computer skills, including sound, hands-on knowledge of MS Office applications (familiarity with ICT tools and high proficiency in Microsoft Excel are desirable).
- Have a demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and, more specifically, the United Nations University.
Requirements
Applicants need to prepare and submit the following:
- Answers to a few questions tailored to the position.
- A current and complete Curriculum Vitae (CV) in English, not exceeding two single-sided pages. (Upload where it asks for the P11 Form).
- A Cover Letter in English, not longer than one single-sided page, stating your motivations for applying, how you can contribute to the Office of the Rector, and how this program relates to your future career goals.
- A completed Application Form, uploaded via the provided link.
- A completed Funding Form, uploaded via the provided link, outlining the source, amount, and duration of actual and/or projected funding while in Tokyo.
- Two Letters of Recommendation: These must be from referees familiar with your character, with at least one being a professor acquainted with your academic abilities. Referees should not be family members or friends. The letters must be submitted directly by the referees via email to [email protected] from their official (institutional/academic/corporate) email address. Letters submitted by the applicant will not be considered.
- Language Certification: Required if English is not your native language AND you did not complete an undergraduate program or are not enrolled in a graduate program with English as the medium of instruction. In such cases, a valid TOEFL, IELTS, or TOEIC score report (original certificate or photocopy) is required.
How to apply
Applications are submitted through the official UNU careers portal. You will need to answer specific questions, upload your CV, cover letter, completed application form, and funding form. Additionally, you must arrange for two referees to send their recommendation letters directly to UNU, and provide English language certification if applicable. The official application link is provided.
Notes
The program includes a one-week orientation to familiarize Junior Fellows with UNU, their co-workers, facilities, and working processes. The internship aims to promote interaction between young scholars/professionals and UNU, familiarize fellows with the Office of the Rector's activities, provide hands-on experience in a UN agency, expose them to an administrative working environment, and offer support to activities within the Office of the Rector.
