The United Nations University (UNU) Office of the Rector in Tokyo is recruiting graduate-level Junior Fellows for the Spring 2027 term. The internship runs for approximately 6 months (1 March 2027 to 27 August 2027), full time, primarily on-site at UNU headquarters in Shibuya, Tokyo, with some flexibility for remote work. Applicants located in Japan and overseas will both be considered. Interns not receiving other financial support receive a monthly stipend, and have access to the headquarters library and gym.
Responsibilities: Junior Fellows support the Office of the Rector through administrative research and writing for institutional development (executive briefs, topical information briefs for internal policy development); planning support, including project management tools and systems; analysis of university operations using tools such as Microsoft Excel; coordination of in-person and online events such as lectures, conferences, workshops and symposiums; meeting coordination, including logistics and minute taking; editorial support, including proof-reading and copy editing; and communication, including newsletters and event summaries.
Qualifications: Currently pursuing or recently completed (within two years) a postgraduate degree (master's or doctoral), preferably in a field related to UNU's work; aged 32 or under at the time of application; no more than 5 years of related work experience; native or fluent written and spoken English; excellent research, writing and analytical skills; ability to build effective working relationships with people from diverse backgrounds; resourcefulness and creativity in problem-solving; advanced MS Office skills (high proficiency in Excel desirable); and a demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and UNU.
Applications are assessed in three stages: document review, an interview by phone or Zoom, and a short time-restricted assignment. The programme does not lead to employment with UNU, and interns do not hold staff member status.
Application Deadline: 1st November 2026 (NOTE: applications will NOT be possible after 23:59 Japan Standard Time)
HOW TO APPLY:
Apply via the apply link on the UNU careers page. Submit answers to the tailored questions, a CV (max two pages, in English), a one-page cover letter in English, the completed Application Form and Funding Form, and language certification if required. Two letters of recommendation must be submitted directly by referees via email to ro_internship@unu.edu from their official institutional email address. Application deadline: 1 November 2026, 23:59 Japan Standard Time.
https://careers.unu.edu/o/junior-fellows-internship-spring2027