United Nations Research Internship Job 2026: Apply for the JIU Research and Analysis Internship in Geneva
Overview
The United Nations Joint Inspection Unit (JIU) is offering a Research and Analysis Internship, with Geneva, Switzerland, as the duty station. The posting is a candidate pool internship at the I-1 level under Affiliate Personnel, managed through the United Nations Office at Geneva. The expected duration is three to six months. In-person presence in Geneva is preferred where possible, though remote or hybrid arrangements may be considered depending on the candidate's circumstances and the Unit's needs.
The JIU is the only independent external oversight body of the United Nations system. It carries out system-wide reviews of management and administrative efficiency, identifies good practices, develops benchmarks, makes evidence-based recommendations and supports information sharing among participating organizations. The intern supports JIU review teams under the direct supervision of an Evaluation and Inspection Officer and the technical direction of the Inspector responsible for the review. Depending on the assignment, tasks include gathering and organizing information, analyzing evidence, preparing written material and supporting knowledge management.
Who can apply
The internship is open to students and recent graduates who meet the UN Internship Programme's academic requirements. Candidates can be enrolled in, or have recently completed, a graduate programme in a relevant field such as public administration, public policy, international relations, data science, statistics, social sciences, law, management or economics. Students in the final year of a first university degree may also qualify. Professional work experience is not required.
Requirements
Strong research, analytical and drafting skills are central, along with the ability to explain complex information concisely. Knowledge of qualitative and quantitative analysis and visualization tools is helpful, and familiarity with AI tools is desirable provided accuracy, confidentiality and human review are maintained. Applicants should be proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint, well organized, detail oriented and comfortable working independently and in multicultural teams. Fluency in written and spoken English is required, and knowledge of another official UN language is an asset.
What you get
This is an unpaid internship. Travel, visa, accommodation and living expenses are the responsibility of the intern or the sponsoring institution.
Key dates
The posting went up in July 2026, and the application deadline is 22 January 2027.