About the Internship Programme
The Vice Rectorate in Europe of the United
Nations University recruits highly qualified applicants to work as interns at
the Vice Rectorate in Bonn. Interns are recruited through a competitive
application process through specific vacancy announcements or unsolicited
applications for a minimum period of three months and a maximum period of six
months. Students or recent graduates interested in the work of the United
Nations and in particular the United Nations University are encouraged to
apply.
The underlying principles of the
Internship Programme at the Vice Rectorate are centred on creating a dynamic,
challenging and rewarding experience for students and recent graduates.
Successful candidates will contribute to the work of the Vice Rectorate in
Europe, the United Nations University, and the UN System as a whole. The programme
provides opportunities for the development of new skills and knowledge and is a
unique and constructive setting for the practical application of capacities
acquired through the intern's studies.
The programme places a strong
emphasis on the training, guidance, and hands-on experience that form the
foundation of a successful and beneficial internship. Interns will gain valuable
skills and background knowledge through their designated work assignments in
the different working areas of the Vice Rectorate. The knowledge and practical
experience gained will also be beneficial to those candidates seeking a career
in the United Nations. Interns can further expect to gain valuable work
experience while contributing in meaningful ways to the mission of the
University.
Purpose
The purpose of the United Nations
University Internship Programme at the Vice Rectorate in Europe is:
-
to
promote interaction and dialogue between young scholars and professionals
-
to
familiarize interns with the activities of the Vice Rectorate and the work of
the UN-University
-
to
provide opportunities for young scholars to gain in-depth, hands-on experience
in a UN agency
-
to contribute to the UNU priority areas, as defined in the
University’s Strategic Plan
-
to
provide support to activities within the Vice Rectorate in Europe
Working Conditions
The
Vice Rectorate’s Internship Programme accepts interns to work in different
areas of the institute for a period of three to six months. Interns are
selected throughout the running calendar year. Download the
application form
to apply for an internship within the Vice
Rectorate.
Interns
work full time during the regular working hours of the University: 9:00–17:00,
Monday to Friday. Weekends and official UNU holidays are days off. Interns are
provided office space and facilities as appropriate for their work.
Interns at the Vice Rectorate also
enjoy free access to the in-house and electronic library and have the unique
opportunity to learn about, contribute to and provide assistance in the organization
of conferences, lectures and academic forums and symposiums that take place
throughout the year.
Work Assignments
Interns at the Vice Rectorate have
the opportunity to engage in a number of ongoing initiatives that provide a
unique window into the working processes of the University. In broad terms,
interns gain insight into and contribute to the priority areas of the
University listed below:
-
Capacity
development and knowledge transfer through e-learning (regional focus: Africa)
-
Science Policy Support, Science for Sustainability, Internationalization
of Science
-
Twinning initiatives and
institutional development
-
Communication and outreach
-
Administration and Finance
-
Information and Communication
Technology (ICT)
Criteria
The qualifications which will be
considered in the application process include, but are not limited to, the
following. The ideal candidate
-
is
currently pursuing or has recently completed under – or postgraduate studies (Bachelor’s
or Master’s), preferably in a field related to the University’s priority areas
as set forth in its Strategic Plan
-
has
a native or near fluent command of written and spoken English
-
has
excellent research, writing and analytical skills
-
can
establish and maintain effective working relations with people from diverse
backgrounds
-
demonstrates
resourcefulness and creativity in problem-solving
-
has
advanced computer skills: sound, hands-on, knowledge of standard office
software (word processing, spreadsheets, databases, etc.)
-
has
a demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and more
specifically, in the work of the United Nations University.
