The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is offering a Research & Partnerships Internship 2026 through its Human Development Report Office. Students and recent graduates can gain hands-on experience in global development research, data analysis, and policy engagement.
Overview
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), through its Human Development Report Office (HDRO), is accepting applications for the Research & Partnerships Internship 2026. This three-month opportunity allows students and recent graduates to contribute to one of the world’s most influential development research publications while gaining practical experience in international development, policy research, partnerships, and data analysis.
The internship is based in New York, United States, with a flexible remote work option available for selected candidates.
Successful interns will support the development of the 2026 Human Development Report, which explores how planetary changes are shaping human development and how societies can foster a more sustainable relationship between people and nature.
About the Internship
The Human Development Report Office is the independent research unit behind the globally recognized Human Development Report (HDR) and the Human Development Index (HDI).
Since 1990, the HDR has influenced development policy worldwide by introducing innovative concepts and challenging conventional approaches to measuring progress and well-being.
The 2026 Human Development Report focuses on the theme of human and planetary futures, examining how environmental pressures affect health, education, livelihoods, and overall human development.
As part of the internship programme, selected candidates will work alongside experienced researchers and policy professionals, supporting research, communications, data analysis, and partnership activities related to the report.
The programme is designed to strengthen participants’ analytical skills while providing valuable exposure to evidence-based policymaking within the United Nations system.
Benefits
Successful interns will receive:
- Opportunity to work with the United Nations Development Programme
- Hands-on experience supporting the Human Development Report
- Exposure to global development research and policy processes
- Experience in data analysis and evidence-based policymaking
- Opportunity to collaborate with international experts and researchers
- Flexible remote or office-based work arrangements
- Professional development in research, communications, and partnerships
- Access to a multicultural and international work environment
- Monthly stipend (subject to UNDP Internship Policy and eligibility requirements)
- Valuable experience for future careers in development, public policy, economics, and research
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet one of the following educational requirements:
- Currently enrolled in a Master’s programme
- Currently enrolled in a PhD programme
- Completing a Master’s degree
- In the final year of a Bachelor’s degree programme
- Recent graduate within one year of graduation
Eligible academic fields include:
- Demography
- Economics
- Development Studies
- Public Policy
- Social Sciences
- Related disciplines
Applicants should also demonstrate:
- Strong research and analytical skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
- Interest in international development and human development issues
- Ability to work effectively in multicultural environments
- Commitment to learning and teamwork
Preferred Qualifications
Candidates with the following qualifications may have an advantage:
- Experience working with NGOs or international organizations
- Familiarity with human development concepts
- Knowledge of the 2026 HDR theme
- Experience using statistical software or programming tools
- Research publication or communications experience
- Knowledge of additional United Nations languages
Application Process
Step 1: Prepare Application Materials
Update your CV and gather all required academic and professional information.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
Submit your application through the UNDP recruitment platform.
Step 3: Indicate Work Preference
Applicants may indicate whether they prefer:
- Remote participation
- Office-based participation in New York
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
Applications must be submitted before the closing date.
Step 5: Await Selection Updates
Shortlisted applicants may be contacted for further assessments or interviews.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Proof of enrollment or graduation
- Academic records if requested
- Cover letter or motivation statement (if required)
- Additional supporting documents requested by UNDP
Key Responsibilities
Selected interns may contribute to:
Research and Analysis
- Quantitative and qualitative research
- Literature reviews
- Data analysis
- Preparation of charts and datasets
- Statistical verification
Partnerships and Communications
- Partnership engagement activities
- Concept note development
- Communications materials
- Background research documents
Events and Coordination
- Research seminars
- Workshops
- Consultations
- Team meetings
- Outreach activities
Deadline
Application Deadline
18 June 2026
Interested applicants should apply as early as possible before the deadline.
Summary Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Research & Partnerships Intern |
| Organization | UNDP |
| Office | Human Development Report Office (HDRO) |
| Location | New York, USA or Remote |
| Duration | 3 Months |
| Employment Type | Full-Time Internship |
| Education Level | Bachelor’s Final Year, Master’s, PhD, Recent Graduates |
| Fields of Study | Economics, Development Studies, Public Policy, Social Sciences |
| Language Requirement | English |
| Stipend | Available (Subject to Eligibility) |
| Application Deadline | 18 June 2026 |
| Work Arrangement | Remote or Onsite |
Conclusion
The UNDP Research & Partnerships Internship 2026 provides an outstanding opportunity for aspiring researchers and development professionals to contribute to one of the United Nations’ most influential publications. Through hands-on involvement in the Human Development Report, interns will gain valuable experience in research, policy analysis, communications, and international development while building skills that can support future careers in global development and public policy.
Students and recent graduates interested in shaping conversations around human development and sustainability should submit their applications before 18 June 2026.
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