The UNU Junior Fellows Internship Programme at the United Nations University Office of the Rector is a prestigious opportunity for highly qualified graduate students and young professionals who want to work at the UNU headquarters in Tokyo.
The program, which hires Junior Fellows twice a year through a competitive application procedure, encourages those who are passionate about the United Nations and UNU’s purpose to apply. The UNU Junior Fellows Internship Programme’s guiding principles are to provide participants with a dynamic, challenging, and gratifying experience.
Successful candidates contribute significantly to the advancement of the Office of the Rector, the United Nations University, and the UN system as a whole. The curriculum provides a platform for skill development, knowledge growth, and the actual application of capacities.
One of the distinguishing aspects of the UNU junior fellows internship programme is its emphasis on comprehensive instruction, guidance, and practical experience. After acceptance, Junior Fellows attend a one-week orientation to become acquainted with UNU, colleagues, facilities, and operational processes within the Office of the Rector. This underlying knowledge and practical experience not only enhances the internship experience, but also prepares individuals for future careers at the United Nations.
Participating in the UNU junior Fellows internship Programme gives important work experience, promotes professional development, and allows individuals to contribute meaningfully to UNU’s overall goal. It acts as a stepping stone for prospective UN workers by providing a unique and productive environment in which to apply academic knowledge to real-world difficulties and projects.
Monthly Stipend is Also Available
The UNU junior Fellows internship programme will benefits those who do not get financial assistance from universities or other institutions. How? Interns will receive a stipend from UNU to help them meet their basic living expenses during the internship. The amount of the stipend is decided by the current stipend rates at each duty station.
This stipend is intended to partially cover the costs of housing, food, transportation, and other necessities. Interns receive a monthly stipend, which allows them to manage their spending efficiently throughout the internship. Part-time interns’ stipends are prorated to reflect their commitment and contribution.
Requirements for the UNU Junior Fellows Internship Programme
The UNU Junior Fellows Internship Programme has rigorous eligibility standards for applicants, taking into account a variety of qualifications to assure a high standard of candidates. The qualifications include:
- Educational Background:
- Applicants must have completed or be pursuing postgraduate studies (master’s or doctoral) within two years of the deadline.
- Age Limit:
- Candidates must be under 32 years old at the time of application.
- Work Experience:
- Work experience is limited to 5 years in linked fields.
- Language Proficiency:
- Native or fluent in written and spoken English
- Skills:
- Excellent research, writing, and analytical skills are required
- Ability to form and maintain excellent working relationships with people from various backgrounds
- Shows ingenuity and innovation in problem-solving.
- Advanced computer abilities, including a thorough understanding of Microsoft Office software. Experience with ICT tools and a high degree of skill in Microsoft Excel are preferred
- Interest in UN and UNU Work:
- Showed interest in the United Nations, particularly the United Nations University.
The Purpose of the UNU Junior Fellows Internship programme
The main objectives of the Junior Fellows Internship Program at the Office of the Rector are:
- Encourage engagement and dialogue amongst young researchers, professionals, and UNU members.
- Introduce junior fellows to the Office of the Rector’s operations and UNU’s activity.
- Give young professionals immersive, hands-on experience at a UN institution.
- Introduce young professionals to the administrative work environment.
- Support the Office of the Rector’s work.
Application Documents Required for the Junior Fellows Internship Program
1. Curriculum Vitae (CV):
- Upload a recent and detailed English CV (in the designated part of the P11 Form). Make sure your CV is no more than two single-sided pages long and includes information about your academic background, professional experience, talents, and achievements.
2. Cover Letter:
- Submit an English-language cover letter expressing your interest in the position and your qualifications. Your cover letter should be concise (one single-sided page) and contain:
- Your motivations for applying to the programme.
- How you believe you can contribute to the work at the Office of the Rector.
- How participating in this programme aligns with your future career goals.
3. Application Form:
- Fill out and upload the Application Form using the link provided. You can either fill it out electronically in MS Word or print and fill it out by hand. The form requests personal information, educational background, relevant experience, and contact information.
4. Funding Form:
- Fill out the Funding Form and upload it via the provided link. This form should include information about the source, quantity, and length of any present or anticipated support for your internship in Tokyo, such as scholarships, grants, or personal cash.
5. Letters of Recommendation and Recommendation Form:
- Candidates must arrange for two letters of recommendation from referees who are familiar with their character and qualifications and have consented to make a recommendation. UNU reserves the right to contact referees directly for verification. While academic recommendations are desired, candidates who are unable to secure them may instead use professional or supervisory references. It is required that at least one referee be a professor familiar with the candidate’s academic abilities. Referees should not be family or friends. Each referee must complete a Recommendation Form and include a letter of recommendation. The completed reference Form and letter of reference should be emailed using the directions provided in the recommendation Form.
6. Language Certification:
- Applicants must produce certification in English if they do not match either of the following criteria: i. The applicant’s first language is English. ii. The candidate has finished an undergraduate degree or is enrolled in a graduate program that uses English as its medium of instruction. If the applicant does not match the qualifications listed above, a valid TOEFL, IELTS, or TOEIC score report is required. The original certificate or photocopy is acceptable.
You can find more details about this junior fellows internship program on UNU website.
