Applications are now open for the United Nations University Junior Fellows Internship Programme 2026–2027, an internationally competitive internship hosted at the university’s headquarters in Tokyo, Japan.

The programme offers graduate students and early-career professionals an opportunity to gain practical experience within a United Nations academic institution dedicated to research on global development, peacebuilding, sustainability, and human welfare.

Junior Fellows contribute directly to the work of the Office of the Rector while strengthening professional skills relevant to careers in international organizations, research institutions, and global policy environments.

About the Internship

The Junior Fellows Internship Programme is designed to bridge academic learning and real-world international policy practice.

Participants engage in:

• Institutional research and policy writing
• Programme planning and project management support
• Internal operational analysis
• Conference and academic event coordination
• Editorial and communications support
• Administrative collaboration across UN initiatives

The internship begins with an orientation week introducing fellows to UNU operations, teams, and working processes.

Internship Location & Duration

• Location: Tokyo, Japan (On-site with limited remote flexibility)
• Internship Length: Approximately 6 months (24 weeks)
• Fall 2026 Term:
  • Start: 1 September 2026
  • End: 26 February 2027
• Working Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Applicants from both Japan and overseas are eligible to apply.

Key Learning Areas

Participants develop experience in:

• International policy research
• Institutional administration within the UN system
• Academic communication and editorial work
• Event and stakeholder coordination
• Data analysis and organizational planning

Why This Internship Matters

The Junior Fellows Internship provides early-career professionals with a rare opportunity to work inside a UN research institution while contributing to global policy discussions aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.

While the programme does not guarantee employment within the UN system, it serves as valuable preparation for careers in:

• International organizations
• Policy research institutions
• Development agencies
• Multilateral cooperation programmes

Don't ,miss out on the application deadline which is 8 May 2026 (23:59 Japan Standard Time).