UNDP Research Internship 2027 in Washington DC for Graduate Students

UNDP Washington Representation Office (WRO) is accepting applications for its 2027 Internship Programme, offering graduate students the opportunity to gain practical experience supporting the United Nations Development Programme’s work on international development, policy, communications and research.

The internship provides exposure to high-level meetings, policy discussions, analytical research and communications activities while working alongside UNDP professionals in Washington, D.C.

About the UNDP Washington Internship

The UNDP Washington Representation Office serves as UNDP’s primary liaison with:

United States Congress
U.S. Department of State
World Bank Group
International organizations
Diplomatic community
Civil society organizations
Media institutions

Interns support the office’s daily operations while gaining firsthand experience in international development and multilateral cooperation.

Internship Opportunities

Applicants may apply for one of two internship tracks:

General Internship

The General Internship is designed for graduate students interested in international development, economics, public policy, governance, law and related fields.

Typical responsibilities include:

Conducting policy and background research
Attending Congressional hearings and public policy events
Preparing analytical briefings
Responding to requests for information
Supporting the planning of UNDP events
Maintaining stakeholder databases
Assisting with office operations

Applicants with Capitol Hill experience or development field experience are encouraged to apply.

Communications and Outreach Internship

This internship focuses on communications, advocacy and public engagement.

Responsibilities may include:

Supporting the UNDP Washington website
Developing communication strategies
Researching and preparing communication materials
Monitoring media and social media
Preparing daily media summaries
Supporting outreach campaigns
Assisting with digital communications and advocacy

Additional desirable skills include:

Strong writing ability
Social media management
Experience with newsletters and media relations
Audio and video editing
Web content management
Familiarity with Washington media

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

Be enrolled in a graduate-level degree programme in communications or a development-related field such as economics, environmental studies, public administration or business administration.
Return to their studies after completing the internship.
Be available for at least three consecutive months.
Work a minimum of three days per week (24 hours).
Demonstrate interest in international development.
Have excellent English language skills.
Respect the principles of the United Nations Charter and UNDP’s mission.

The maximum internship duration is six months.

Internship Benefits

Selected interns receive:

Monthly internship stipend (location-based)
Practical experience within the United Nations Development Programme
Exposure to international development policy
Participation in conferences and meetings
Networking opportunities
Experience working with senior UNDP professionals
Opportunities to contribute to policy research and communications

Internships may be conducted in-person, remotely or through hybrid arrangements depending on operational requirements.

2027 Internship Schedule

Spring 2027 Internship

Start: March 2027
End: 15 June 2027
Application Deadline: 15 January 2027 (11:59 p.m. ET)

Fall 2027 Internship

Start: September 2027
End: 15 December 2027
Application Deadline: 15 June 2027 (11:59 p.m. ET)

UNDP Washington does not offer a summer internship programme.

Required Application Documents

Applicants must submit:

Cover Letter
Curriculum Vitae (1–2 pages)
Completed and signed UNDP Internship Application Form
One reference letter

Applications must be complete. Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.

Important Information

Interns receive a monthly stipend.
Applicants are responsible for travel, accommodation and other personal expenses.
Health insurance is mandatory.
Applicants are responsible for obtaining any required visa.
The internship does not guarantee future employment with UNDP.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should:

Complete the UNDP Internship Application Form.
Prepare all required supporting documents.
Clearly indicate the internship period being applied for.
Submit the complete application by email before the application deadline.

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