The United Nations University (UNU) is accepting applications for its Junior Fellows Internship Programme (Spring 2027). This six-month internship is based at UNU headquarters in Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan, and the application deadline is 1st November 2026.
This graduate-level opportunity gives master’s and doctoral candidates, as well as recent postgraduate graduates, practical experience within the UNU Office of the Rector. In addition, selected interns support research, planning, analysis, communications, and event coordination across the institution.
Key Details:
Application Deadline: 1st November 2026 (applications will NOT be possible after 23:59 Japan Standard Time)
Eligible Countries: All countries
Internship Location: On-site at United Nations University headquarters, Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan. Some flexibility for remote work; applicants located both in Japan and overseas will be considered.
Duration: Approximately 6 months (24 weeks). Expected start date: 1 March 2027. Expected end date: 27 August 2027.
Compensation: Monthly stipend to partially subsidise basic living costs for interns who are not in receipt of other financial support; amount not specified (determined per duty station).
Host Organization: United Nations University
About the Internship
The Junior Fellows Internship Programme is a competitive internship hosted by the United Nations University. It is designed for postgraduate candidates who want hands-on exposure to the work of UNU and the wider United Nations system.
The internship takes place at UNU headquarters in Tokyo. However, the programme notes some flexibility for remote work. Applicants based in Japan and overseas may both be considered.
Interns work at the UNU Office of the Rector and contribute to administrative, research, and coordination tasks. As a result, participants gain practical experience in institutional development and international academic administration.
Responsibilities
Selected interns may be involved in the following tasks:
- Administrative research and writing for institutional development, including executive briefs, background research, and information briefs
- Supporting the development of project management tools and systems
- Conducting internal analyses using analytical tools such as MS Excel
- Coordinating in-person and online events, including lectures, conferences, workshops, and public events
- Supporting meeting coordination and taking minutes
- Providing editorial support through proofreading and copy editing
- Preparing and disseminating newsletters, event summaries, and related communications documents
Eligibility Requirements
To apply, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Be currently pursuing or have recently completed, within two years, postgraduate studies at master’s or doctoral level
- Be at or under 32 years of age at the time of application
- Have no more than 5 years of work experience in a related field
- Have native or fluent command of written and spoken English, or provide a valid English test score if required
- Be able to establish and maintain effective working relations with people from diverse backgrounds
- Show a demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and UNU
Skills Preferred: Excellent research, writing and analytical skills; advanced computer skills and hands-on knowledge of MS Office (high proficiency in Microsoft Excel desirable); native or fluent written and spoken English.
UNU also lists the following application documents:
- Current CV (max two single-sided pages)
- Cover letter (max one single-sided page)
- Completed Application Form (Junior Fellows Internship Programme)
- Funding Form outlining the source, amount, and duration of funding while in Tokyo
- Two letters of recommendation submitted by referees via email to [email protected]
- Language certification such as TOEFL, IELTS, or TOEIC if applicable
How to Apply
Interested applicants should complete their application through the official UNU application page before the deadline. Make sure all required documents are prepared and submitted as instructed on the official page.
The programme offers a monthly stipend for interns who are not receiving other financial support. In addition, interns may receive office facilities, library and gym access where available, 1.5 days of leave per month, and opportunities to contribute to UNU events and activities.
👉 Visit the official internship page for details
