The United Nations University UNU Opens Junior Fellows Internship Programme 2026 for Graduates and Young Professionals. Fully paid internship for graduate students and young professionals—apply now.
Overview
The United Nations University (UNU), through its Office of the Rector, is recruiting Junior Fellows to work at its headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. This prestigious and competitive internship programme targets graduate students and young professionals interested in gaining hands-on experience within the United Nations system.
The UNU Junior Fellows Internship Programme is designed to provide a dynamic, challenging, and professionally enriching environment, allowing participants to directly contribute to the work of the Office of the Rector, UNU, and the wider UN system.
About the UNU Opens Junior Fellows Internship Programme 2026 for Graduates and Young Professionals
The Junior Fellows Internship Programme is one of UNU’s flagship early-career opportunities. It combines structured training, mentorship, and real-world UN work experience, making it ideal for candidates aspiring to build long-term international or UN careers.
The programme begins with a one-week orientation, introducing fellows to UNU’s mission, structure, working processes, and colleagues. Throughout the internship, fellows receive close supervision and guidance while undertaking substantive responsibilities.
Programme Purpose
The Junior Fellows Internship Programme aims to:
- Promote dialogue between young scholars, professionals, and UNU
- Familiarize fellows with the work of the Office of the Rector
- Provide hands-on experience in a UN agency
- Expose participants to a high-level administrative and academic environment
- Support the institutional and strategic work of UNU
Working Conditions
Duration & Intake Periods
Junior Fellows are recruited twice per year:
- Fall Term: Mid-August to mid-December
- Spring Term: February to May
Selections typically take place:
- May–June (for Fall intake)
- September–October (for Spring intake)
Work Schedule
- Full-time: Monday–Friday, 9:30–17:30
- Weekends and official UNU holidays off
- 1.5 days of leave per month
Location & Facilities
- Based at UNU Headquarters, Tokyo
- Office space and facilities provided for on-site fellows
- Remote fellows must have personal computer and stable internet access
Stipend & Benefits
- Monthly stipend, including transportation allowance
- Free access to UNU library and gym (subject to availability)
- Participation in UN conferences, lectures, and academic forums
Work Assignments
Junior Fellows support the Office of the Rector across multiple functional areas:
Administrative Research & Writing
- Executive briefs on priority institutional issues
- Background research and policy support documents
Planning & Project Support
- Development of project management tools and systems
Events & Meetings
- Coordination of conferences, lectures, workshops (online & in-person)
- Meeting logistics and minute-taking
Editorial & Communications Support
- Proofreading reports and copy-editing
- Preparing newsletters, summaries, and communication materials
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Currently pursuing or recently completed (within 2 years) a Master’s or PhD
- Under 32 years of age at the time of application
- No more than 5 years of professional experience
- Native or fluent English proficiency
- Strong research, writing, and analytical skills
- Advanced MS Office skills (Excel proficiency desirable)
- Demonstrated interest in the United Nations and UNU
- Ability to work effectively in multicultural environments
Benefits of the Programme
- Paid internship at a UN headquarters
- Direct exposure to UN senior leadership and governance
- Strong foundation for UN and international careers
- Skill development in research, policy, administration, and communications
- High professional credibility and global networking opportunities
How to Apply
- Visit the UNU Careers website
- Review open Junior Fellows Internship vacancies
- Submit your application online as instructed
- Shortlisted candidates are selected through a competitive process
Important:
- Applications are only accepted via official UNU platforms
- The UN does not charge any application or processing fees
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | UNU Junior Fellows Internship |
| Organization | United Nations University |
| Location | Tokyo, Japan |
| Duration | 4 months (Fall or Spring term) |
| Work Type | Full-time |
| Stipend | Monthly stipend + transport allowance |
| Eligibility | Master’s/PhD students or recent graduates |
| Age Limit | Under 32 years |
| Application | Online via UNU Careers |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the internship paid?
Yes. Junior Fellows receive a monthly stipend, including transport support.
Can international applicants apply?
Yes. The programme is open to applicants from all countries.
Is prior UN experience required?
No. The programme is designed for early-career candidates.
Does the internship lead to a UN job?
The programme is not a job placement scheme, but it offers strong career exposure and networking.
Conclusion
The UNU Junior Fellows Internship Programme 2026 is a highly competitive, paid UN opportunity for graduate students and young professionals seeking meaningful exposure to the UN system. With hands-on responsibilities, professional mentoring, and a strategic location in Tokyo, this programme offers an exceptional pathway into international public service and global policy careers.
Keywords
UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2026, United Nations University internship, UN internships Tokyo, paid UN internships 2026, graduate UN programmes, early career UN opportunities.
