The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is recruiting a Research & Partnerships Intern for the Human Development Report Office. Students and recent graduates can apply for this flexible internship available remotely or in New York.
Overview
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has opened applications for a Research & Partnerships Internship within its Human Development Report Office (HDRO). This exciting opportunity allows students and recent graduates to contribute to one of the world’s most influential development research publications while gaining valuable experience in international development, policy research, data analysis, and global partnerships.
The internship is available either remotely or at UNDP’s office in New York, United States, offering flexibility for candidates worldwide.
Applications close on 19 June 2026.
About the Internship
The Human Development Report Office (HDRO) is the independent research office behind the globally recognized Human Development Report (HDR) and the Human Development Index (HDI).
Since 1990, the Human Development Report has provided innovative analysis and policy recommendations on critical global development challenges. The 2026 Human Development Report focuses on the relationship between human development and planetary sustainability, exploring how societies can create mutually beneficial futures for people and the environment.
As a Research & Partnerships Intern, selected candidates will support research, statistical analysis, partnership engagement, communications, and event coordination activities contributing to the preparation of the 2026 Human Development Report and related initiatives.
The internship duration is three months and may be completed either remotely or in New York.
Benefits
Successful interns will receive:
- Opportunity to work with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
- Hands-on experience contributing to the Human Development Report
- Exposure to global development research and policy analysis
- Flexible work arrangements (remote or office-based)
- Monthly stipend in accordance with UNDP Internship Policy (subject to eligibility)
- Experience working with international experts and researchers
- Professional development in research, communications, and partnership management
- Networking opportunities within the UN system
- Exposure to global human development and sustainability issues
- Valuable experience for future careers in international development, public policy, economics, and research
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet one of the following educational requirements:
- Currently enrolled in a Master’s degree programme
- Currently enrolled in a PhD programme
- In the final year of a Bachelor’s degree programme
- Recent graduate (within one year of graduation)
Preferred fields of study include:
- Demography
- Economics
- Development Studies
- Public Policy
- Social Sciences
- Related disciplines
Applicants should also demonstrate:
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
- Strong research and analytical abilities
- Interest in human development and international development issues
- Ability to work in multicultural and multidisciplinary environments
- Commitment to learning and collaboration
Desirable qualifications include:
- Experience with NGOs or international organizations
- Familiarity with human development concepts
- Knowledge of statistical software or open-source programming tools
- Competency in additional UN languages
Application Process
Step 1: Prepare Your Application
Update your CV and gather all supporting information required by UNDP.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
Submit an application through the UNDP recruitment platform before the deadline.
Step 3: Indicate Your Preferred Work Arrangement
Applicants may choose either:
- Remote internship
- Office-based internship in New York
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
Ensure your application is submitted before the closing date.
Step 5: Await Selection Results
Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for additional assessments or interviews.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
- Academic transcripts (if requested)
- Proof of enrolment or graduation status
- Cover letter or statement of interest (if required)
- Additional supporting documents requested by UNDP
Internship Responsibilities
Selected interns may support:
- Quantitative and qualitative research
- Literature reviews
- Statistical analysis and data visualization
- Preparation of charts, tables, and datasets
- Fact-checking and proofreading
- Research partnership coordination
- Development of communication materials
- Event and workshop support
- Preparation of policy and research notes
Deadline
Application Deadline
19 June 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible.
Summary Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Research & Partnerships Intern |
| Organization | UNDP |
| Office | Human Development Report Office (HDRO) |
| Location | Remote or New York, USA |
| Internship 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 UNDP policy) |
| Application Deadline | 19 June 2026 |
| Start Date | To Be Determined |
Conclusion
The UNDP Research & Partnerships Internship 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for students and recent graduates interested in international development, public policy, sustainability, and research. With the flexibility to work remotely or from New York, interns will gain firsthand experience contributing to the Human Development Report while building valuable skills and networks within the United Nations system.
Individuals passionate about evidence-based policy, global development, and research should consider applying before the 19 June 2026 deadline.
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