Position: Internship – Natural Science Sector – UNESCO (Deadline June 2024)
Position: Internship – Natural Science Sector – UNESCO (Deadline June 2024)
Position: Internship – Natural Science Sector – UNESCO
Overview of the Functions of the Post
The work of the Natural Science Sector is guided by several international frameworks, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Paris Agreement (2015), the United Nations Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015–2030), the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework, and the African Union’s Agenda 2063. The Sector adopts a systemic, integrated approach, focusing on enhancing skills and knowledge for better management of natural resources and the development of green economies.
Application Deadline: June 30, 2024 (Midnight Paris Time)
Duty Station: Headquarters, Field Offices, and Institutes
Type of Contract: Internship
Duration of Contract: 1 to 6 months
Recruitment Open to: External Candidates
UNESCO Core Values:
- Commitment to the Organization
- Integrity
- Respect for Diversity
- Professionalism
Overview of the Functions of the Post
The work of the Natural Science Sector is guided by several international frameworks, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Paris Agreement (2015), the United Nations Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015–2030), the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework, and the African Union’s Agenda 2063. The Sector adopts a systemic, integrated approach, focusing on enhancing skills and knowledge for better management of natural resources and the development of green economies.
Areas of activity include:
- Enhancing inclusive knowledge and capacities for sustainable management of natural resources, ecosystem, and biodiversity conservation.
- Bolstering water science, innovation, education, management, cooperation, and governance for a water-secure world.
- Empowering Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to address specific challenges.
- Strengthening Member States’ capacities in science, technology, and innovation (STI) policies.
- Enhancing institutional and human capacities in basic sciences, technology, research, and engineering.
- Promoting STEM education in a gender-transformative manner for sustainable development.
Tasks
During the internship, you will have the opportunity to learn and support various activities and projects within the Natural Science Sector. Tasks may include:
- Participating in the preparation and review of project documents, drafting notes, and preparing technical annexes.
- Contributing to briefing notes, progress reports, and other documents through data research and collection.
- Supporting communication and visibility efforts by updating web pages, designing and disseminating materials, and mobilizing resources.
- Analyzing and compiling background data for potential partnerships and fundraising opportunities, and taking notes in meetings.
- Providing administrative and logistical support for events, meetings, workshops, and conferences.
- Preparing specific budgets, financial, and accounting documents, and assisting in project evaluation.
- Contributing to other related tasks as required by your supervisor.
You may also be eligible for:
Position: Director, Global Office -International Organization for Migration (Deadline June 2024)
Learning Objectives
Through this internship, you will gain:
- An understanding of UNESCO’s overall work and experience in project design, planning, and implementation within an international and multicultural context.
- Knowledge of policy brief design using various approaches, including case studies, group discussions, and individual reflection.
- Insights into global policy-making in the Natural Sciences Sector, including the role of international organizations.
- Critical-thinking skills by contributing original ideas during brainstorm sessions.
- Understanding of administrative procedures and development of soft skills such as stakeholder management, problem-solving, interpersonal skills, and work ethic.
- Competency in teamwork, flexibility, communication, and client-oriented service mindset within the UNESCO Competency Framework.
Competencies (Core / Managerial)
- Accountability (C)
- Communication (C)
- Innovation (C)
- Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement (C)
- Planning and organizing (C)
- Results focus (C)
- Teamwork (C)
- Professionalism (C)
For detailed information, please consult the UNESCO Competency Framework.
Required Qualifications
- Age: You must be at least 20 years old to apply.
- Academic Qualifications:
- Currently enrolled in a graduate programme (Master’s degree, PhD, or equivalent).
- Recently graduated (within the last 12 months) with a Master’s degree or PhD.
- Languages: Excellent command of English or French (written and spoken). Working knowledge of the other language is an asset.
- Computer Skills: Excellent knowledge of computer systems and office-related software.
- Team Player: Ability to work well in a team and adapt to an international working environment.
- Communication Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Desirable Qualifications
- Education: Studies in water science, hydrology, ecological science, earth sciences, basic sciences, engineering, or related fields.
- Languages: Knowledge of additional UN official languages (Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Chinese).
Benefits and Entitlements
- Remuneration: UNESCO does not remunerate interns. There is no financial compensation for internship assignments.
- Leave: Interns are entitled to 2.5 days of leave per month during their internship.
Selection and Recruitment Process
- The UNESCO Internships Programme is open in January and July each year. Candidates apply to the vacancy matching their expertise and domain. Successful candidates enter the intern talent pool for further assessment by relevant hiring managers. The candidature remains valid for 6 months.
- Selected candidates will be contacted directly by the relevant hiring manager. Those not selected within six months need to reapply for new internship vacancies.
Keep in Mind
- Prepare your motivation letter and résumé before starting the application process, which must be completed within one hour.
- Ensure your contact details are valid for the next six months.
- Applications must be submitted in English or French.
- Provide unofficial translations of documents if not in English or French.
- Due to high application volumes, placement is not guaranteed. Successful candidates will be contacted directly within six months.
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