The World Health Organization (WHO) has opened applications for its 2026 Remote Research Assistants Intake, offering global candidates a rare opportunity to work with one of the most influential public health institutions in the world. This programme is designed for talented early-career professionals, graduates, and researchers who want to contribute to high-impact global health work while gaining experience in a fully virtual setting.
As WHO continues to expand digital innovation, evidence gathering, and health systems research, the organization is welcoming skilled individuals from all regions to support ongoing projects in public health, epidemiology, data analysis, global policy development, health communications, and related fields.
About the 2026 WHO Remote Research Assistant Programme
The WHO Remote Research Assistant intake provides structured, part-time or full-time research roles that allow successful applicants to collaborate with technical experts, contribute to global health studies, and support policy-related projects without relocating.
These assignments are designed to strengthen WHO’s capacity in data-driven decision-making, technical documentation, field research support, and knowledge generation across diverse health areas such as:
- Communicable and non-communicable diseases
- Health emergencies and epidemic intelligence
- Digital health and innovation
- Health systems strengthening
- Maternal, child, and adolescent health
- Climate and environmental health
- Health equity and social determinants of health
This programme is ideal for individuals seeking meaningful global experience in preparation for careers in international development, academia, public health research, and global policy.
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Responsibilities of Remote Research Assistants
While tasks vary based on assignment and department, research assistants may be expected to:
- Conduct literature reviews and desk research
- Support data cleaning, analysis, and visualization
- Assist in drafting technical reports, briefs, and publications
- Contribute to monitoring and evaluation activities
- Compile evidence to support WHO guidelines and policy documents
- Participate in virtual meetings, webinars, and research sessions
- Assist in updating digital repositories and knowledge platforms
- Coordinate with WHO technical teams and global partners
These responsibilities offer practical exposure to real-world public health challenges and the fast-paced environment of global health policy and research.
Benefits of Joining the WHO 2026 Remote Research Intake
Selected candidates receive access to a wide range of professional development benefits, including:
Global Experience
Work directly with WHO technical officers and specialists collaborating across multiple time zones and countries.
Flexible Remote Work
Assignments are fully remote and suitable for students, recent graduates, or professionals seeking flexible global roles.
Professional Growth
Gain experience contributing to international research products, reports, and publications.
Mentorship
Opportunity to learn from leading experts and expand your understanding of global health governance.
Career Advancement
Experience with WHO significantly strengthens future applications to UN agencies, NGOs, research institutes, and fellowship programmes.
While WHO internships are often unpaid, remote research assistant roles may be paid or unpaid depending on the project, donor funding, or hosting unit. Details are always clarified at the time of assignment.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the 2026 Remote Research Assistant roles, candidates should generally:
- Be enrolled in or recently graduated from a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD programme
- Have strong academic or professional background in fields such as:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Medicine or Nursing
- Statistics or Data Science
- Environmental Health
- Health Economics
- Social Sciences
- Communications
- International Development
- Demonstrate excellent research, analytical, and writing skills
- Be highly proficient in English (fluency in French, Spanish, Arabic, or Chinese is an advantage)
- Be able to work remotely with strong time management and self-discipline
- Have no immediate relatives working with WHO
- Be comfortable using digital tools such as Microsoft Excel, statistical software, or research platforms
Specific assignments may require additional background or technical expertise depending on project needs.
Application Process
Although positions differ by department, the general process includes:
- Submit an online application showcasing academic background, skills, and research experience.
- Upload your CV and cover letter, highlighting relevant projects and motivation.
- Complete a screening questionnaire or skills assessment, if required.
- Participate in a virtual interview with WHO technical teams.
- If selected, receive placement into a research unit for the 2026 cycle.
Applicants are encouraged to tailor their applications to reflect WHO’s core competencies—teamwork, communication, producing results, and respect for cultural diversity.
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RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES
For more opportunities like these, be sure to follow us on Facebook, join our WhatsApp Group and Channel, and connect with us on LinkedIn.
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Why You Should Apply
The WHO Remote Research Assistant intake is one of the most accessible pathways into the global public health sector. By participating, you gain:
- Exposure to one of the world’s leading health organizations
- The chance to contribute to work that influences global policy
- Experience that enhances academic research, graduate school applications, and career progression
- A deeper understanding of global health systems, emergencies, and public health strategies
If you want to launch a purpose-driven career in global health, research, or international development, this programme is a powerful stepping stone.
Final Thoughts
The WHO Remote Research Assistants Programme 2026 is more than just a research opportunity—it is a platform for emerging global health professionals to contribute meaningfully to international health priorities while expanding their technical and leadership capacities.
Applications are open worldwide, and competition is strong, so early preparation is highly recommended.
If you’re passionate about global health and eager to support WHO’s mission of promoting health, keeping the world safe, and serving the vulnerable, this is your chance to make an impact.
