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:
1. 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
2. Data and Information Management
- Identify relevant data sources
- Prepare datasets for analysis
- Assist with fact‑checking and proofreading
3. 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
4. Event and Logistical Support
- Assist with meetings, seminars, consultations, workshops, and side events
- Provide logistical support for HDRO activities
5. 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.
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