UNDP is hiring a Research and Partnerships Intern for its ICPSD Skills Development portfolio in 2026. This paid, home-based internship offers a monthly stipend of $1,200–$1,500 USD. Apply before 9 February 2026.
Overview
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has opened applications for a Research and Partnerships Intern under its Istanbul International Center for Private Sector in Development (ICPSD).
This fully funded UN internship for 2026 is 100% home-based, open to final-year undergraduate students, master’s students, and recent graduates, and offers a monthly stipend ranging from $1,200 to $1,500 USD, in line with UNDP Internship Policy.
The internship focuses on skills development, private sector engagement, digital transformation, and sustainable development, making it an excellent opportunity for candidates interested in UN research internships, policy research, and SDG-focused careers.
About UNDP ICPSD
The Istanbul International Center for Private Sector in Development (ICPSD) is one of UNDP’s six Global Policy Centers. It works to strengthen the role of the private sector and foundations as transformative partners in development.
ICPSD leads UNDP’s global work on:
- Private sector engagement
- Skills development and employment
- Impact investing
- Public-private partnerships
- Inclusive and sustainable markets
This internship sits within ICPSD’s Skills Development portfolio, supporting evidence-based research and partnerships that expand job and livelihood opportunities for disadvantaged groups.
Internship Details
Job title: Research and Partnerships Intern (Skills Development Portfolio)
Job ID: 31625
Agency: UNDP
Bureau: Bureau for Policy and Programme Support
Contract type: Internship Programme
Duration: 6 months
Work schedule: Full-time
Location: Home-based (no travel required)
Duty station (administrative): Istanbul, Türkiye
Application deadline: 9 February 2026
Monthly Stipend and Funding
- Estimated monthly stipend: $1,200 – $1,500 USD
- Paid in accordance with UNDP Internship Policy
- Stipend is provided if the intern is not already financially supported by another institution
- Part-time arrangements are prorated (this role is full-time)
This makes it one of the best-paid UN research internships for 2026.
Key Responsibilities
As a Research and Partnerships Intern, you will:
- Conduct quantitative and qualitative research on private sector contributions to the SDGs
- Support research, writing, editing, and proofreading of policy reports
- Assist with skills development and digital transformation research
- Support the creation and maintenance of multi-stakeholder partnerships
- Help organize conferences, workshops, and online events
- Contribute to project and programme design and implementation
- Prepare communication materials (briefs, success stories, social media content)
- Support online campaigns, blogs, infographics, and visual content
- Provide administrative and coordination support as required
Learning and Career Outcomes
By the end of the internship, you will gain:
- Hands-on experience in UNDP policy research and advisory work
- Practical exposure to private sector engagement for development
- Advanced skills in research, analysis, and report writing
- Experience working in an international UN policy center
- Professional insight into skills development and employment policy
This internship is especially valuable for those pursuing careers in international development, UN agencies, policy research, and sustainable finance.
Eligibility Requirements
Education
Applicants must meet one of the following at the time of application:
- Enrolled in a Master’s degree programme, or
- In the final academic year of a Bachelor’s degree, or
- A recent graduate (must start within one year of graduation)
Relevant fields include:
- Economics
- Finance
- Business Administration
- International Relations
- Public Administration
- Development Studies or related disciplines
Required Skills and Competencies
- Strong academic research and analytical skills
- Excellent writing and editing abilities
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Strong communication and collaboration skills
- High digital literacy (MS Office, Canva, online tools)
- Experience with social media content creation is an asset
- Commitment to UNDP’s mission, values, and ethical standards
- Cultural sensitivity and professionalism
Language Requirements
- English: Fluent (required)
- Turkish: Fluent (required)
- French: Desirable
How to Apply
Applicants must submit one single PDF document containing:
- A brief cover letter in English
- A current CV in English
Shortlisted candidates will later be asked to provide:
- Proof of enrollment or graduation
- Medical and life/accident insurance documentation
Applications must be submitted through the official UNDP recruitment portal before 9 February 2026.
Important Notes
- This internship does not guarantee future employment with UNDP
- UNDP does not charge any application or recruitment fees
- The internship is fully home-based with no travel required
- UNDP strongly encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and candidates from underrepresented groups
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | United Nations Development Programme |
| Program | ICPSD – Skills Development |
| Role | Research & Partnerships Intern |
| Location | Home-based |
| Duration | 6 months |
| Stipend | $1,200–$1,500 USD/month |
| Languages | English & Turkish |
| Deadline | 9 February 2026 |
Conclusion
The UNDP Research Internship 2026 with ICPSD offers a rare opportunity to gain paid, remote UN experience in skills development, private sector engagement, and sustainable development. With a competitive monthly stipend, global exposure, and strong research focus, this role is ideal for students and recent graduates aiming to build careers within the United Nations system and international development sector.
Keywords
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