The United Nations University (UNU) Junior Fellows Internship Spring 2027 is an excellent opportunity for postgraduate students and recent graduates to gain practical experience within a United Nations institution. Organized by the Office of the Rector at UNU headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, this competitive internship provides professional training, research experience, and opportunities to contribute to the university’s work.

The programme is designed for motivated young professionals interested in international affairs, research, higher education, administration, and the work of the United Nations. Applications are open to eligible candidates based in Japan and overseas for the Spring 2027 term.

Benefits of the UNU Junior Fellows Internship

The UNU Junior Fellows Internship offers valuable professional development and financial support. Eligible interns who do not receive financial support from a university or another institution will receive a monthly stipend to partially cover basic living expenses, including transportation. Academic scholarships are not considered financial support for this purpose.

Additional benefits include:

• Practical experience working within a United Nations institution.
• Hands-on research, writing, and analytical assignments.
• Training, guidance, and a one-week orientation.
• Opportunities to assist with international conferences, workshops, lectures, and academic events.
• Access to UNU headquarters’ library and gym facilities, subject to availability.
• Office facilities for interns working on-site.
• Leave entitlement of 1.5 days per month, in addition to weekends and official UNU holidays.

Important: This is a partially funded internship, not a fully funded scholarship. The stipend is intended to subsidize living costs, and applicants should review their financial requirements before applying.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the UNU Junior Fellows Internship Spring 2027, candidates should meet the following requirements:

1. Be currently pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree, or have completed postgraduate studies within the previous two years.
2. Be 32 years old or younger when applying.
3. Have no more than five years of work experience in a related field.
4. Demonstrate native or fluent written and spoken English proficiency.
5. Possess excellent research, writing, analytical, and communication skills.
6. Have strong computer skills, including knowledge of Microsoft Office. Advanced Excel skills are desirable.
7. Demonstrate a genuine interest in the United Nations and the mission of United Nations University.

Applicants from different academic and professional backgrounds may be considered, particularly those whose interests align with UNU’s work.

Responsibilities of Junior Fellows

Selected interns will support the Office of the Rector through research, preparation of executive briefs, project planning, analysis of university operations, event coordination, meeting documentation, proofreading, and communication activities.

The internship generally requires full-time availability from Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Japan Standard Time. The programme provides an opportunity to apply academic knowledge in a professional international environment.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents:

• Curriculum vitae (CV) in English
• Cover letter
• Completed UNU Application Form
• Completed UNU Funding Form
• Two letters of recommendation submitted directly by referees
• Any additional information or documents requested in the official vacancy announcement

Applicants should carefully follow the official instructions for submitting documents and arranging recommendation letters.