UNRISD Research Internship 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland: International Research Opportunity for Students and Recent Graduates

Apply for the UNRISD Research Internship 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland. Learn about this international research internship opportunity supporting social development, gender equality, climate justice, sustainable development, and public policy research.

The United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD) offers outstanding research internship opportunities for students and recent graduates interested in contributing to global policy research on sustainable development, social justice, gender equality, environmental sustainability, and inclusive economic transformation.

Based at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, UNRISD provides interns with the opportunity to work alongside internationally recognized researchers and policy experts while contributing to research that informs governments, United Nations agencies, academic institutions, and development organizations worldwide.

For individuals seeking practical experience in international research and policy development, the UNRISD Research Internship 2026 provides valuable exposure to evidence-based policy analysis and interdisciplinary research addressing some of today’s most pressing global challenges.

About UNRISD

The United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD) is an autonomous research institute within the United Nations system that focuses on the social dimensions of development. Through interdisciplinary research, policy analysis, and global partnerships, UNRISD seeks to generate innovative ideas that contribute to more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable societies.

The Institute collaborates with researchers, policymakers, civil society organizations, governments, and international institutions to translate research into practical policy recommendations.

Its work supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by examining how social, economic, political, and environmental systems interact to influence development outcomes.

Internship Overview

Opportunity	Details
Organization	United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD)
Programme	Research Internship
Location	Geneva, Switzerland
Organization Type	United Nations Research Institute
Internship Area	Research and Policy Analysis
Eligible Applicants	Students and Recent Graduates
Focus Areas	Social Development, Gender Justice, Climate Policy, Sustainable Development, Public Policy

What Interns Can Expect

Research interns at UNRISD gain practical experience supporting ongoing research programmes and policy initiatives. Depending on the assigned project, interns may contribute to literature reviews, policy analysis, data collection, report preparation, and research dissemination activities.

Interns also have the opportunity to observe how research contributes to international policymaking and supports global discussions on sustainable development.

Working within a multicultural and interdisciplinary environment enables participants to strengthen analytical, research, and communication skills while gaining valuable insight into the work of the United Nations.

Current UNRISD Research Programmes

Internship assignments may support research across several major programme areas, including:

Transformative Social Policy

This programme explores policies that enable people to achieve their full potential while promoting inclusive and sustainable development.

Gender Justice and Development

Researchers examine policies and institutions that advance gender equality while addressing discrimination, inequality, and barriers to women’s rights.

Environmental and Climate Justice

The programme investigates how climate change and environmental policies affect social equity, emphasizing fair and inclusive approaches to climate action.

Alternative Economies for Transformation

UNRISD researches innovative economic models that promote equality, sustainability, and long-term social well-being beyond traditional economic growth indicators.

Eco-Social Contract Research

The Institute supports global research and policy dialogue aimed at developing a new eco-social contract that balances environmental sustainability with social justice.

Research Topics

UNRISD’s ongoing research covers a broad range of global issues, including:

Climate justice
Social protection
Sustainable development
Artificial intelligence and society
Gender equality
Care economies
Human rights
Economic inequality
Inclusive governance
Public policy
Migration and development
Social and solidarity economy
Global taxation
Digital transformation
Environmental sustainability

These interdisciplinary topics provide interns with opportunities to engage in research that directly informs international policy discussions.

Why Apply?

A research internship with UNRISD offers several professional advantages.

Participants may gain:

Practical research experience within the United Nations system.
Exposure to international policy development.
Experience working with multidisciplinary research teams.
Opportunities to strengthen analytical and writing skills.
Knowledge of evidence-based policymaking.
International networking opportunities.
Insight into global sustainable development challenges.
Experience contributing to publications and research projects.

Ideal Academic Backgrounds

UNRISD research internships are particularly suitable for students or graduates in fields such as:

International Development
Economics
Public Policy
Political Science
Sociology
Social Sciences
Environmental Studies
Climate Policy
Gender Studies
International Relations
Human Rights
Public Administration
Sustainable Development
Development Studies
Law

Applicants from related disciplines with strong research skills may also be considered.

Skills That Strengthen an Application

Competitive applicants often demonstrate:

Strong academic performance.
Excellent research and analytical abilities.
Critical thinking skills.
Academic writing experience.
Excellent communication skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Interest in international development and public policy.
Commitment to social justice and sustainable development.

Experience conducting academic research, literature reviews, policy analysis, or data analysis can strengthen an application.

Why Geneva?

Geneva is one of the world’s leading centres for international diplomacy, humanitarian action, and multilateral cooperation.

Working in Geneva provides interns with exposure to numerous United Nations agencies, international organizations, research institutes, and global policy discussions, creating a unique learning environment for aspiring international professionals.

About UNRISD’s Global Impact

Despite its relatively small size, UNRISD collaborates with hundreds of researchers worldwide and continues to produce influential research on major development challenges.

The Institute works with contributors from across the Global South and North while emphasizing inclusive, evidence-based, and interdisciplinary approaches to sustainable development.

Its research informs policymakers, international organizations, academic institutions, and civil society organizations working to advance more equitable and sustainable societies.

How to Apply

Prospective applicants should monitor the official UNRISD website for internship announcements and application instructions.

Applicants are generally encouraged to prepare:

An updated curriculum vitae (CV).
A motivation letter explaining their interest in UNRISD’s research.
Academic transcripts, if requested.
Writing samples or research experience where applicable.
References, depending on the specific internship announcement.

Carefully reviewing the eligibility requirements and tailoring application materials to the relevant research programme can improve competitiveness.

Final Thoughts

The UNRISD Research Internship 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland is an excellent opportunity for students and recent graduates seeking meaningful research experience within the United Nations system. Through participation in internationally recognized research programmes, interns contribute to policy discussions on social development, gender equality, climate justice, and sustainable development while building valuable professional skills for future careers in international organizations, academia, government, or the nonprofit sector.

For aspiring researchers committed to advancing inclusive and sustainable development, this internship offers a strong foundation for a career in global policy and research.

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