To all the students and recent graduates, do you want to gain early-career work experience as an intern in one of the specialized units of the United Nations that works to address issues like technology, finance, and the digital economy in developing countries, ensuring transparency and digital access? Applications are open for the United Nations UNCTAD Internship Program 2026. The United Nations, through its official career portal, has announced a “Science, Technology & Innovation for Development Intern” position at the United Nations Trade and Development, for the Geneva office, and is seeking applications from dynamic Male/Female applicants from around the world to apply and have an opportunity to gain professional work experience in a dynamic and multicultural work environment.
It’s a full-time internship program; interns have to work 5 days a week (40 hours), in accordance with Geneva working hours. You can take the internship in-person/remote, or mixed. The program is 3 months long, with the possibility of extension up to 6 months based on your performance. The internship is expected to start in mid january 2026. The internship is intended for students currently enrolled in a bachelor’s or master’s degree program or who have recently graduated in relevant areas from recognized institutions. The objective of the program is to expose students and fresh graduates to the United Nations work and enhance their educational experience, and provide them with a real-world practical work experience in the organization.
The program offers an exceptional opportunity to gain hands-on experience in Science, Engineering, Economics, and development while working on the UNCTAD high-impact projects under the supervision of the UNCTAD director. Applicants must demonstrate a keen interest in working with the United Nations. No prior work experience is required to apply for the program; however, your field of study must be relevant to the position you are applying for. No application fee is required at any stage of the recruitment process. Read more details below
United Nations UNCTAD Internship Program 2026: Overview
| Host Organization | United Nations |
|---|---|
| Department | UNCTAD |
| Internship Level | Internship, l-1 |
| Location | Geneva |
| Positions | Science, Technology & Innovation for Development Intern |
| Application Deadline | December 18th, 2025 |
Also, Check: FAO Internships for Asia and Pacific 2026
Eligiblity Criteria
UN UNCTAD internship is inviting applications from individuals meeting the following criteria:
- The internship is open to all nationalities
- Students currently in the Master’s or bachelor’s degree program
- Recent bachelor’s or master’s graduates are also invited to apply
- Fluency in English, knowledge of any other UN official language
- No prior professional work experience is required
- The field of study must closely relate to the position you are applying for
- Applicants with experience in drafting reports and conducting research in science, technology, and innovation would be an asset
Competencies
- Individuals must be computer-literate
- Keen interest in the work of the United Nations
- Easily adapt to a new work environment
- Strong Research and Analytical skills
- Excellent communication skills
- A team player who can work collaboratively with others
- Excellent interpersonal skills
Benefits
- Interns will gain valuable insights into the work of the United Nations
- Gain hands-on experience while working on real-time projects
- Interns will enhance skills in their desired fields
- Networking opportunities with fellows and experts from around the world
- A strong addition to your CV
- Mentorship and guidance from UN experts
- Exposure to the United Nations work
- Internship is offering both In-person and remote participation options
Interns Role
- Assist in organizing and analyzing data
- Prepare presentations
- Assist in ongoing office work
- Collaboratively work with team members
- Assist in organizing meetings, working, and other activities
Required Documents
- Proof of Degree Enrollment
- Letter of Motivation
- Degree Certificate for graduates
- ID/Passport
Also, Check:
- UNOPS Youth Engagement Platform 2026 – Remote (Internship)
- UNHCR Internship Program 2026 | Multiple Positions (PAID)
How to Apply?
The application process for the UNCTAD internship is online via the official INSPIRA portal. Applicants interested in the position need to visit the offical link below, click on the “Apply Now” button, make an account on INSPIRA, and start with your application. Complete your application, provide all the required documents, and submit. Only successful applicants will be contacted.
