The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) has opened applications for its highly sought-after Digital, AI and Innovation Internship 2026\27, offering a unique opportunity for students and recent graduates worldwide to contribute to cutting-edge global development initiatives ; entirely from a home-based (remote) …
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), through its Human Development Report Office (HDRO), is offering a three‑month Research & Partnerships Internship based in New York, United States, with the option to work remotely. This internship is designed for emerging researchers, analysts, and development‑focused students who want to deepen their understanding of human development, global policy, and evidence‑based research.
The HDRO plays a central role in advancing human development by expanding people’s opportunities, freedoms, and choices. It does this through research, data analysis, policy advocacy, and the production of the globally recognized Human Development Report (HDR). Since its first publication in 1990, the HDR has shaped global development thinking, introduced pioneering metrics such as the Human Development Index (HDI), and challenged traditional approaches to development.
The 2026 Human Development Report focuses on how planetary changes are reshaping human development and how societies can build mutually beneficial relationships between people and nature. The internship directly supports this work.
Application Deadline: 18 June 2026, 22:59 Location: New York, United States (or remote) Duration: 3 months Schedule: Full‑time
About the Human Development Report Office (HDRO)
HDRO is an independent research office within the UN system. It combines the credibility of the United Nations with the freedom to explore frontier issues and challenge prevailing narratives. Its mission includes:
Promoting innovative ideas that advance human development
Advocating for practical policy changes
Conducting research and data analysis
Producing the annual Human Development Report
Supporting national and regional human development analysis
Engaging in global outreach and advocacy
The 2026 HDR examines how planetary pressures intersect with health, education, livelihoods, and well‑being. It proposes new metrics and strategies to ensure that both people and the planet can thrive together.
Internship Responsibilities
Interns will work under the supervision of senior HDRO staff and collaborate closely with the research team. Key responsibilities include:
- Research and Data Analysis
Conduct quantitative and qualitative background research for the 2026 HDR
Compile datasets, charts, and tables
Undertake literature reviews
Write short research notes
Verify statistical materials
Support the analysis and presentation of human development statistics
- Data and Information Management
Identify relevant data sources
Prepare datasets for analysis
Assist with fact‑checking and proofreading
- Partnerships and Communications
Support research partnership engagements
Draft concept notes and background materials
Track action points and follow‑up items
Contribute to high‑impact communications materials for HDR products
- Event and Logistical Support
Assist with meetings, seminars, consultations, workshops, and side events
Provide logistical support for HDRO activities
- Flexible Work Arrangement
Internship may be completed in‑office or remotely
Applicants may indicate their preference
Required Competencies
Core Competencies
Integrity and adherence to UN values
Commitment to UNDP’s mission and strategic goals
Sensitivity to cultural, gender, religious, racial, and national diversity
Fairness and impartiality
Technical Competencies
Familiarity with human development concepts and international development issues
Understanding of the 2026 HDR theme: “An Aspirational Approach to Human and Planetary Futures”
Quantitative data analysis skills (statistical software or open‑source tools desirable)
Strong research and writing abilities
Professional Skills
Teamwork and service orientation
Ability to work in fast‑paced, multicultural environments
Commitment to continuous learning
Eligibility Requirements
Education
Applicants must be:
Enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program, or
Completing a Master’s degree, or
In the final year of a Bachelor’s program, or
Recent graduates (up to one year post‑graduation)
Fields of study include:
Demography
Economics
Development Studies
Public Policy
Social Sciences
Experience
Experience with international organizations or NGOs aligned with UNDP values is desirable
Strong communication skills
Familiarity with human development concepts
Experience with statistical software or programming tools is an asset
Language
Excellent written and spoken English
Knowledge of other UN languages is an asset
Working Arrangements and Conditions
Full‑time internship (remote or in‑person)
Stipend may be provided if not funded by another institution
Interns must secure their own medical insurance
Interns must arrange visas and travel if working in‑person
Interns are not eligible for UNDP employment during the internship
Internship does not guarantee future employment
Interns must provide their own laptops
Interns will be evaluated at the end of the contract
Equal Opportunity Commitment
UNDP is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity. Employment decisions are based on merit and suitability without discrimination. UNDP maintains a zero‑tolerance policy for harassment, exploitation, and abuse.
Apply here https://estm.fa.em2.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1/job/34697/apply/email
