6 Research Assistant Openings at the United Nations 2026 at UNICRI Rome. Hybrid UN internships for students and graduates interested in research, conferences, and global justice. Deadline: 28 January 2026.
Overview
The United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI) has opened applications for six Research Assistant–focused Internship positions under its Conference Services and Research Support functions for 2026.
Based at the UNICRI Rome Liaison Office, these hybrid internships offer a unique entry point into United Nations research careers, combining policy research, international conference support, advocacy, and academic outreach within the UN system.
This opportunity is ideal for students and recent graduates seeking hands-on UN research exposure in the fields of criminal justice, crime prevention, international cooperation, and public policy.
Programme Details
- Job Opening ID: 270579
- Category & Level: Internship (I-1)
- Job Family: Conference Services / Research Support
- Number of Openings: 6
- Duty Station: Rome, Italy
- Work Arrangement: Hybrid (on-site and remote)
- Duration: 2 to 6 months
- Working Hours: Full-time (35 hours per week)
- Date Posted: 15 January 2026
- Application Deadline: 28 January 2026
Key Responsibilities
Research & Policy Support
- Conduct thematic research related to crime prevention, criminal justice, and UNICRI priority areas
- Support knowledge production for reports, conferences, and specialized courses
- Assist in researching innovative methodologies for meetings, training, and communications
Conference & Academic Engagement
- Support the organization of international conferences, workshops, symposia, and expert meetings
- Research and liaise with academic institutions and global faculty networks
- Maintain and update academic and stakeholder databases
Communication & Advocacy
- Draft and support content for websites and social media platforms
- Assist with visibility and advocacy materials linked to UNICRI projects
- Respond to academic and stakeholder inquiries regarding UNICRI programmes
Administrative & Office Support
- Draft correspondence and organize meetings
- Maintain records and documentation
- Provide general operational support to the Rome Liaison Office
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements:
- Be enrolled in or have completed a graduate programme (Master’s, PhD, or equivalent), or
- Be enrolled in or have completed the final academic year of a Bachelor’s degree
Preferred Academic Backgrounds
- Political Science
- International Relations
- Communication
- Psychology
- Journalism
- Marketing
- Social Sciences or related disciplines
No prior professional experience is required, but the field of study must be relevant to research, policy, or conference-related work.
Language Requirements
- English: Fluency (spoken and written) – required
- Additional UN languages (French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Russian): advantage
Benefits
- Practical exposure to United Nations research and policy work
- Experience supporting global conferences and academic networks
- Opportunity to build a strong UN-focused professional profile
- Hybrid work flexibility
- Networking within the UN system and Rome-based UN agencies
Important Note:
This is an unpaid internship. Interns are responsible for travel, accommodation, visa, and living expenses.
How to Apply
- Visit the UN Careers Portal
- Search for Job Opening ID: 270579
- Complete the online application form
- Upload:
- CV
- Proof of enrollment or degree completion
- Submit before 28 January 2026
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Summary Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | UNICRI |
| Role | Research Assistant Intern (Conference Services) |
| Level | Internship (I-1) |
| Openings | 6 |
| Location | Rome, Italy |
| Work Mode | Hybrid |
| Duration | 2–6 months |
| Salary | Unpaid |
| Deadline | 28 January 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are these roles paid?
No. UNICRI internships are unpaid.
Can international students apply?
Yes. Applicants of all nationalities may apply, subject to visa requirements.
Is this suitable for research careers at the UN?
Yes. These internships provide strong exposure to UN research, policy analysis, and academic engagement.
Can the internship be remote?
Partially. Interns must be able to work in a hybrid arrangement.
Conclusion
The 6 Research Assistant Openings at the United Nations 2026 hosted by UNICRI in Rome offer a competitive entry point into global UN research and policy careers. With hands-on involvement in research, conferences, and international cooperation, this internship is highly valuable for candidates aiming to build long-term careers within the United Nations or related global institutions.
Keywords
United Nations Research Assistant 2026, UN Internships Rome, UNICRI Internship 2026, UN Research Careers, Conference Services UN Internship, Hybrid UN Internship, UN Rome Research Internship
