Applications are open for the United Nations University (UNU) Junior Fellows Internship Programme for Spring 2027, offering graduate students and young professionals an opportunity to gain practical experience at the headquarters of a United Nations entity in Tokyo, Japan.

Hosted by the UNU Office of the Rector, this six-month paid internship provides participants with an opportunity to apply knowledge gained through postgraduate studies while developing professional skills in research, policy writing, administration, communications, planning, and international event coordination.

The programme is designed to introduce emerging professionals to the operations of the United Nations University and the wider UN system. Successful candidates will contribute to the work of the Office of the Rector while gaining exposure to an international academic and policy environment.

For the Spring 2027 intake, applications are open to eligible candidates currently based in Japan and those applying from overseas.

About the United Nations University

The United Nations University is a global research institution within the UN system that generates policy-relevant knowledge on issues affecting human survival, conflict prevention, development, and human welfare.

With researchers and programmes across multiple countries, UNU works on issues connected to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and collaborates with UN agencies, universities, and research institutions to support sustainable development and positive global change.

The Junior Fellows Internship Programme provides an opportunity for emerging scholars and professionals to become familiar with UNU's work and contribute to activities that support its institutional mission.

About the Junior Fellows Internship Programme

The programme is organised twice a year through a competitive selection process. The Spring 2027 cohort will run for approximately six months, giving selected fellows hands-on experience in the day-to-day operations of the UNU Office of the Rector.

Participants will begin with a one-week orientation to familiarise themselves with the University, its facilities, colleagues, and working procedures. They will then support ongoing institutional activities while receiving guidance and developing practical skills relevant to their professional growth.

The internship is particularly valuable for candidates interested in international development, research, public policy, higher education administration, communications, and future careers connected to the United Nations.

Internship Responsibilities

Junior Fellows will support the Office of the Rector across several areas, including:

• Research and drafting of executive briefs and institutional information documents.
• Project planning and development of management tools.
• Data analysis relating to university operations.
• Coordination of in-person and online events.
• Meeting logistics and preparation of minutes.
• Editing and proofreading reports and other publications.
• Preparation and distribution of newsletters, event summaries, and communication materials.

The specific duties assigned will depend on the Office's needs and the fellow's relevant skills and experience.

Internship Duration and Working Arrangements

• Programme: UNU Junior Fellows Internship Programme
• Office: Office of the Rector, United Nations University
• Location: Tokyo, Japan
• Work arrangement: Primarily on-site, with some flexibility for remote work
• Duration: Approximately six months (24 weeks)
• Expected start date: 1 March 2027
• Expected end date: 27 August 2027
• Working hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• Leave entitlement: 1.5 days per month

For the Spring 2027 intake, applicants based both in Japan and overseas will be considered. Successful candidates who require a Japanese visa will receive support from UNU with the visa application process.

Stipend and Other Benefits

The internship provides a monthly stipend to help cover part of the fellow's basic living expenses, including transportation to and from the UNU headquarters.

The amount is determined according to the applicable stipend rate for the duty station. Interns who receive financial support from other sources, such as universities or institutions, are generally not eligible for the UNU stipend. Scholarships for academic studies are not treated as financial support for this purpose.

Additional benefits and facilities include:

• Access to the UNU headquarters library, both on-site and online.
• Access to the headquarters gym, subject to availability.
• Practical exposure to institutional research, administration, and communications.
• Opportunities to assist with academic and public events.
• Guidance and experience that can support future professional development.

The stipend is intended as a partial subsidy and should not be assumed to cover all living expenses in Tokyo.

Required Application Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit the following materials in English:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV): A current CV of no more than two single-sided pages. Applicants should upload their CV in the section designated for the P11 Form; the P11 Form itself is not required.
2. Cover letter: A maximum of one single-sided page explaining the applicant's motivation, potential contribution to the Office of the Rector, and connection between the internship and future career goals.
3. Application form: Completed and submitted according to the instructions provided in the application portal.
4. Funding form: Details of the source, amount, and duration of actual or projected funding while in Tokyo.
5. Two letters of recommendation: Submitted directly by the referees to ro_internship@unu.edu using official institutional, academic, or corporate email addresses. At least one referee is expected to be a professor familiar with the applicant's academic abilities.
6. English-language certification, where required: Applicants whose native language is not English and who have not completed or are not enrolled in a qualifying programme taught in English must provide a valid TOEFL, IELTS, or TOEIC score report.

Applicants should also answer the questions included in the online application. Referees must submit their recommendation letters directly; letters uploaded or submitted by the applicant will not be accepted.

Selection Process

The selection process consists of three stages:

• Stage 1 – Application review: Submitted documents are assessed for motivation, qualifications, relevant experience, and suitability. The process may include a desk review, competency-based assessment, and reference checks.
• Stage 2 – Interview: Shortlisted candidates are invited to a telephone or Zoom interview to discuss their motivations, expectations, career goals, communication skills, interpersonal skills, and English proficiency.
• Stage 3 – Practical assignment: Candidates complete a short, time-restricted assignment related to the work they would undertake during the internship. Applicants should allow up to two hours for this assessment.

Only shortlisted candidates may be contacted. Applicants who are selected will be required to sign an agreement with the Office of the Rector before commencing the internship.

There is no application or recruitment fee for this internship. Candidates should disregard any requests for payment connected to the recruitment process.

The UNU Junior Fellows Internship offers an opportunity for eligible postgraduate students and young professionals to gain practical experience in an international organisation, strengthen their professional capabilities, and contribute to the work of the United Nations University.

Applications will not be accepted after the stated deadline 1 November 2026, before 11:59 p.m. Japan Standard Time (JST).

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached to apply for this opportunity.