UNDP Online Volunteer Opportunity 2026: 12 Research Positions in Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services

Overview

The United Nations Development Programme, through the Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services Network, is offering 12 online volunteer research positions focusing on biodiversity and ecosystem services across Southeast Asia. The assignment supports preparations for the upcoming Southeast Asia Regional Trialogue planned for the first half of 2027. Selected participants will contribute to research, data gathering, analysis, and documentation to help ensure regional discussions reflect national realities and priorities. The research will feed into background materials, factsheets, case studies, and preparation resources for the event.

Who can apply

This opportunity is intended for individuals from Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Viet Nam who have an interest or background in environmental research, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development. Applicants must have at least secondary education, along with previous experience in research, policy analysis, or information gathering related to biodiversity, ecosystems, climate change, or sustainable development. Candidates should also possess familiarity with national biodiversity or climate institutions, environmental policies, or relevant projects in their country. A working knowledge of English is required, while knowledge of regional languages such as Khmer, Indonesian, Malay, Filipino, Thai, or Vietnamese is desirable depending on the country assignment. Basic knowledge of Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services processes and assessments is also considered desirable.

What you get

This is an unpaid UN online volunteering assignment that does not provide a salary, allowance, or financial entitlements. Successful volunteers will receive a certificate of appreciation at the end of the term. Participants also gain practical experience contributing to a United Nations Development Programme-supported regional research initiative, exposure to international biodiversity conservation priorities, and opportunities to strengthen their research, analytical, and reporting skills.

Requirements

Volunteers are required to dedicate 11 to 15 hours per week over a duration of 12 weeks. Responsibilities include preparing one concise country summary note using a provided Word document template. Tasks involve reviewing national biodiversity strategies, sustainable development priorities, and environmental policies, as well as examining National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans and reports submitted to the Convention on Biological Diversity. Volunteers will map relevant stakeholders such as government institutions, research organizations, nongovernmental organizations, businesses, and financial institutions, while also identifying economic sectors that influence biodiversity and documenting successful community-led conservation projects and implementation challenges. Participants must work independently and communicate clearly in writing.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted through the official portal by the stated deadline.

Key dates

The application deadline is 8 November 2026 at 02:00 as displayed on the UNV portal. The assignment duration is 12 weeks, and the supported regional event is planned for the first half of 2027.