Become a Research Assistant Intern at the United Nations in 2026. The UN Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) is recruiting Research Assistant Interns for 2026 in Santiago, Chile. Learn about eligibility, duties, benefits, application steps, and key deadlines.
Overview
The 2026 Research Assistant Internship at the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) is now open for applications. Based in Santiago, Chile, this internship provides aspiring researchers and economists with a rare opportunity to work inside one of the UN’s most influential regional bodies.
Interns contribute to economic analysis, development research, and policy studies that inform government decision-making across Latin America and the Caribbean.
The position is open to students and recent graduates, with no prior work experience required.
For more opportunities like these, be sure to follow us on Facebook, join our WhatsApp Group and Channel, and connect with us on LinkedIn, and Follow our Twitter Page.
About ECLAC
The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) is one of the UN’s five regional commissions. Since 1948, it has led efforts to:
- support economic and social development in the region,
- provide policy research and advisory services to governments, and
- strengthen regional and international cooperation.
Interns joining the CEPAL Review Unit directly support this mission by assisting with research, publications, and economic analysis.
Role Details: Become a Research Assistant Intern at the United Nations in 2026
Key Information
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Title | Research Assistant Intern |
| Organizational Unit | CEPAL Review Unit |
| Duty Station | Santiago, Chile |
| Duration | 3 months (renewable up to 6 months) |
| Application Deadline | 4 December 2025 |
| Job Level | Internship, I-1 |
| Experience Required | None |
| Salary | Unpaid (standard UN internship policy) |
What You Will Do
Interns will work under the Chief of the CEPAL Review Unit and assist with analytical, research, and administrative tasks, including:
Core Responsibilities
- Search, collect, and organize data on economic and development issues.
- Review and critically analyze academic articles from reputable journals.
- Prepare reference materials, bibliographic summaries, and data files.
- Support minor research tasks and office activities as needed.
This role is ideal for students interested in economics, development studies, public policy, or international affairs.
Eligibility Requirements
Academic Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following:
- Be in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree,
- Be enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program,
- Have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree within the past year.
Minimum education: High school diploma, but university enrolment is required to qualify for the UN internship programme.
Skills Needed
- Strong knowledge of MS Word, PowerPoint, and basic research tools
- Ability to draft research papers, notes, or summaries
- Analytical thinking and attention to detail
Language Requirements
- Fluency in written and spoken English (required)
- Knowledge of Spanish or another UN language (advantage)
Additional Notes
- No prior professional experience is required.
- Interns must bring their own laptop.
- Interns may need to use their personal email and connect via guest Wi-Fi.
Internship Conditions
As part of the UN internship policy:
- Internships are unpaid.
- Interns must cover travel, visa, accommodation, insurance, and living costs.
- Interns without local citizenship may need a visa/work authorization.
- Interns must maintain confidentiality regarding unpublished UN information.
- The UN does not charge fees at any stage of recruitment.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Create a UN Careers Account
Visit the United Nations Careers Portal, search for Job Opening 258364, and create your profile.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application Documents
You will typically need:
- Updated CV
- Cover letter
- Proof of university enrolment or degree completion
- Identification documents
Step 3: Submit Your Online Application
Complete all mandatory fields and upload your documents before the deadline.
Step 4: Await Screening
If shortlisted, you may be contacted for:
- Clarifications
- Additional documents
- A brief interview
Applications may be reviewed throughout the posting period on an as-needed basis.
APPLY NOW
For more opportunities like these, be sure to follow us on Facebook, join our WhatsApp Group and Channel, and connect with us on LinkedIn, and Follow our Twitter Page.
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FAQs
Is this internship paid?
No. UN internships are unpaid. Interns cover their own costs.
Is Spanish required?
Not required, but helpful. English fluency is mandatory.
Can recent graduates apply?
Yes. You may apply within one year after graduation.
What is the duration?
The internship is 3 months, renewable up to 6 months.
Do I need visa sponsorship?
If you are not a resident of Chile, you are responsible for obtaining and financing your visa.
Keywords
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