Applications are open for the United Nations University (UNU) Junior Fellows Internship Programme 2027 in Tokyo, Japan. This six-month internship offers eligible graduate students and young professionals an opportunity to gain practical experience at the headquarters of a United Nations institution.
Hosted by the Office of the Rector at the United Nations University, the programme provides hands-on experience in research, policy writing, administration, communications, project planning, data analysis, and international event coordination.
The Spring 2027 intake welcomes eligible applicants from all countries, including candidates currently living outside Japan. Selected fellows who require a Japanese visa will receive support from UNU with the visa application process.
The internship offers a monthly stipend to help cover basic living expenses and transportation. Participants will also gain exposure to the operations of an international organisation and develop professional skills relevant to future careers in international development, public policy, research, and the United Nations system.
Quick Overview
- Host Institution: United Nations University (UNU)
- Host Office: Office of the Rector
- Internship Location: Tokyo, Japan
- Programme Type: Paid internship
- Duration: Approximately six months (24 weeks)
- Start Date: March 1, 2027
- End Date: August 27, 2027
- Financial Support: Monthly stipend, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions
- Eligible Countries: All countries
- Application Deadline: November 1, 2026, before 11:59 p.m. Japan Standard Time (JST)
About the United Nations University
The United Nations University is a global research institution within the United Nations system. It generates policy-relevant knowledge and conducts research on issues affecting human survival, conflict prevention, sustainable development, and human welfare.
Through its research institutes and international partnerships, UNU works on issues connected to the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Its activities involve collaboration with UN agencies, universities, governments, and research institutions around the world.
The Junior Fellows Internship Programme introduces emerging professionals to UNU’s institutional operations and provides opportunities to contribute to the work of the Office of the Rector.
For aspiring international development professionals, researchers, and future UN staff members, the programme offers an opportunity to gain valuable experience in an international academic and policy environment.
About the Junior Fellows Internship Programme
The UNU Junior Fellows Internship Programme is organised twice a year through a competitive selection process.
The Spring 2027 cohort will run for approximately six months, during which selected fellows will support the daily activities of the Office of the Rector.
The programme begins with a one-week orientation to familiarise participants with UNU, its facilities, colleagues, and working procedures. Fellows then contribute to ongoing institutional projects while receiving guidance and developing practical professional skills.
The internship is primarily on-site at UNU headquarters in Tokyo, although some flexibility for remote work may be available.
Applicants from Japan and overseas are eligible to be considered, provided they meet the programme requirements.
Internship Responsibilities
Junior Fellows will support the Office of the Rector in several areas of institutional work.
Responsibilities may include:
- Conducting research and drafting executive briefs and institutional information documents.
- Supporting project planning and developing management tools.
- Analysing data related to university operations.
- Coordinating in-person and online events.
- Assisting with meeting arrangements and preparing meeting minutes.
- Editing and proofreading reports, publications, and other documents.
- Preparing and distributing newsletters, event summaries, and communication materials.
- Supporting lectures, conferences, workshops, academic forums, and symposiums.
Specific duties will depend on the needs of the Office of the Rector and the selected fellow’s skills, qualifications, and experience.
Internship Duration and Working Arrangements
The Spring 2027 internship is expected to follow this schedule:
- Programme: UNU Junior Fellows Internship Programme
- Office: Office of the Rector
- Location: Tokyo, Japan
- Work Arrangement: Primarily on-site, with some flexibility for remote work
- Duration: Approximately 24 weeks
- Expected Start Date: March 1, 2027
- Expected End Date: August 27, 2027
- Working Days: Monday to Friday
- Working Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- Leave Entitlement: 1.5 days per month
Applicants currently living outside Japan can apply. Successful candidates who need a Japanese visa will receive support from UNU with the visa application process.
Visa support does not guarantee visa approval. Selected candidates must follow the official instructions and applicable Japanese immigration requirements.
Stipend and Other Benefits
The UNU Junior Fellows Internship provides a monthly stipend intended to cover part of the fellow’s basic living expenses, including transportation to and from the UNU headquarters.
The stipend amount is determined according to the applicable rate for the duty station.
Applicants should note that the stipend is a partial subsidy and should not assume it will cover all living expenses in Tokyo.
Interns who receive financial support from other sources, such as universities or other institutions, are generally not eligible for the UNU stipend. Scholarships awarded for academic studies are not considered financial support for this purpose, according to the programme information.
Additional benefits may include:
- Access to the UNU headquarters library, both on-site and online.
- Access to the headquarters gym, subject to availability.
- Practical experience in institutional research and administration.
- Opportunities to contribute to communications and policy-related activities.
- Participation in academic events, conferences, and public programmes.
- Professional guidance and exposure to the operations of an international organisation.
- Opportunities to develop skills that may support future career progression.
Important: Although some programme listings describe the internship as fully funded, the stated stipend is a partial subsidy. Applicants should review the official vacancy announcement and make appropriate financial arrangements before accepting an offer.
Eligibility Criteria
The programme is intended for graduate students and young professionals with strong academic preparation, relevant skills, and an interest in the work of the United Nations.
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
- Age Requirement: Be 32 years old or younger at the time of application.
- Educational Qualifications: Be currently pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree or have completed postgraduate studies within the two years preceding the application.
- Work Experience: Have no more than five years of work experience in their related field.
- English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate native or fluent written and spoken English.
- Research and Analytical Skills: Possess excellent research, writing, analytical, and communication skills.
- Computer Skills: Have advanced computer skills and practical knowledge of Microsoft Office applications. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel is desirable.
- Interpersonal Skills: Be able to work effectively with colleagues and stakeholders from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds.
- Problem-Solving Abilities: Demonstrate resourcefulness, creativity, initiative, and problem-solving skills.
- Interest in the United Nations: Show a genuine interest in UNU’s mission and activities, as well as the broader work of the UN system.
Candidates from developing countries and women are particularly encouraged to apply. UNU also welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds, including persons with disabilities.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must prepare their application materials in English and follow the instructions provided in the official application portal.
1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Submit an up-to-date CV of no more than two single-sided pages. Applicants should upload their CV in the section designated for the P11 Form. The P11 Form itself is not required.
2. Cover Letter
Provide a cover letter of no more than one single-sided page explaining:
- Why you want to participate in the internship.
- How your qualifications and experience could contribute to the Office of the Rector.
- How the internship connects with your professional and career goals.
3. Online Application Form
Complete the application form and answer all questions included in the application portal.
4. Funding Form
Provide information about the source, amount, and duration of any actual or projected funding available to you while in Tokyo.
5. Two Letters of Recommendation
Two referees must submit recommendation letters directly to the programme by email at:
ro_internship@unu.edu
The letters should be sent from official institutional, academic, or corporate email addresses. At least one referee is expected to be a professor familiar with the applicant’s academic abilities.
Applicants must not upload or submit the recommendation letters themselves, as referees are required to send them directly.
6. English-Language Certification, Where Required
Applicants who do not meet the programme’s exemption conditions must provide a valid TOEFL, IELTS, or TOEIC score report, as applicable.
Applicants should review the official vacancy announcement for the complete documentation requirements and any additional instructions.
Selection Process
The UNU Junior Fellows Internship uses a competitive selection process consisting of three stages.
Stage 1: Application Review
The selection team assesses submitted documents based on the applicant’s motivation, qualifications, relevant experience, and suitability for the programme. The process may include a desk review, competency-based assessment, and reference checks.
Stage 2: Interview
Shortlisted applicants may be invited to a telephone or Zoom interview. The interview may assess motivation, expectations, career goals, communication skills, interpersonal abilities, and English proficiency.
Stage 3: Practical Assignment
Candidates may be required to complete a short, time-restricted assignment related to the work they would undertake during the internship. Applicants should allow up to two hours for this assessment.
Only shortlisted candidates may be contacted. Successful applicants will be required to sign an agreement with the Office of the Rector before beginning the internship.
There is no application or recruitment fee for this programme. Applicants should disregard any requests for payment connected with the recruitment process.
How to Apply for the UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2027
Interested and eligible applicants should apply through the official UNU Careers portal.
Follow these steps:
- Visit the official application page
- Read the complete vacancy announcement and confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements.
- Prepare your CV, cover letter, funding information, and any required English-language certification.
- Complete the online application and answer all questions.
- Contact two suitable referees and ask them to submit their recommendation letters directly to ro_internship@unu.edu.
- Submit your application and ensure all required documents and referee submissions are completed according to the official instructions.
Application Deadline: November 1, 2026, before 11:59 p.m. Japan Standard Time (JST).
Applicants are encouraged to prepare their documents early and allow sufficient time for referees to submit their recommendation letters.
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
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