The United Nations University (UNU) is inviting applications for a Remote Research Intern – Neuroscience, Learning and AI in Higher Education position at the UNU Institute in Macau (UNU Macau). This two-month research internship provides an opportunity for qualified postgraduate researchers to gain practical experience in policy-oriented research while contributing to work examining the intersection of neuroscience, learning sciences, artificial intelligence and higher education.

The internship is particularly relevant for candidates with an academic background in neuroscience, education, learning sciences, psychology, artificial intelligence, social sciences or a related discipline who are interested in understanding how emerging technologies and evidence from learning and neuroscience can influence education policy and practice.

The successful intern will work remotely under the supervision of the Institute Director and contribute to research for a forthcoming Springer publication on AI and higher education, alongside research briefs, policy recommendations, blogs, academic papers and other knowledge products.

Financial Support

The advertised position lists a payment of $550 per month.

Duration

The internship will last for 2 months.

The anticipated internship period is:

• Start date: October 5, 2026
• End date: December 4, 2026

Application Deadline

September 18, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Macau time (GMT+8).

Applicants should submit their applications before the deadline because the application page will no longer be operational after the closing date.

About the United Nations University

The United Nations University is an international community of scholars working on policy-oriented research, capacity development and knowledge dissemination in support of the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter.

For more than four decades, UNU has served as a global research and think-tank institution working on major challenges affecting human survival, conflict prevention, sustainable development and human welfare.

Its research contributes to the broader work of the United Nations and its Member States and covers issues connected to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

UNU brings together researchers working across different countries and disciplines. The university also maintains collaborations with United Nations agencies, universities and research institutions around the world.

This makes a UNU internship particularly valuable for individuals seeking exposure to international research, evidence-based policymaking, sustainable development and the United Nations system.

About UNU Institute in Macau

The United Nations University Institute in Macau is one of the research and training institutes within the UNU system.

UNU Macau focuses on the relationship between digital technologies and sustainable development, undertaking research designed to address challenges identified within the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The Institute emphasizes:

• Digital technology and sustainable development
• Evidence-based policymaking
• Data-driven approaches
• Applied research
• Innovation and emerging technologies
• ICT for development
• Interdisciplinary research
• Policy impact at international, regional and national levels

One of the Institute’s objectives is to help nurture the next generation of interdisciplinary researchers, including computing, information and social scientists and engineers working in ICT for development.

The Institute’s location in Macau also places it within the broader Greater Bay Area, a major technology and innovation hub with connections to China, Hong Kong SAR and several other Asian countries.

For the selected intern, this provides an opportunity to participate in research connected to major technological and educational developments while working within a United Nations research environment.

About the Research Internship

The Research Intern – Neuroscience, Learning and AI in Higher Education will support ongoing research under the supervision of the Institute Director.

The internship is connected to a forthcoming Springer publication on artificial intelligence and higher education, meaning the successful candidate will have an opportunity to contribute to research that may ultimately inform an academic publication.

The role combines several areas of expertise, including:

1. Neuroscience
2. Learning science
3. Education
4. Artificial intelligence
5. Higher education
6. Social science research
7. Education policy
8. Academic writing
9. Knowledge translation
10. Evidence-based policymaking

The position is therefore well suited to candidates who enjoy interdisciplinary research and are interested in translating academic evidence into practical policy and educational recommendations.

Key Responsibilities

The selected Research Intern will undertake a range of research and knowledge-production activities.

1. Conduct Literature Reviews

A major responsibility will involve conducting literature reviews and research relating to:

• Neuroscience
• Learning
• Education
• Artificial intelligence
• Higher education

The intern will be expected to identify relevant academic literature, examine existing evidence, synthesize findings and help establish an evidence base for ongoing UNU research.

Strong literature-review skills will therefore be important because the role requires the ability to navigate academic research and identify information relevant to specific research questions.

2. Support Research for the Springer Book

The intern will support research and analysis contributing to a forthcoming Springer book focused on AI and higher education.

This could involve reviewing academic literature, organizing research materials, synthesizing findings and supporting the development of content for the publication.

The opportunity may therefore be particularly attractive to candidates who want experience contributing to an international academic publication.

3. Explore Neuroscience and Learning Science

The intern will examine how findings and insights from neuroscience and learning science can contribute to better educational policies and practices.

This involves exploring the relationship between how people learn, what research says about learning and cognition, and how these insights can be incorporated into education systems.

The role therefore goes beyond simply studying artificial intelligence. It requires an interdisciplinary understanding of how AI, learning, neuroscience and education intersect.

4. Contribute to Education Policy Recommendations

Another important responsibility will be contributing to policy outputs and recommendations.

The intern will explore how evidence from neuroscience and learning science can potentially inform policymaking within education.

This may include helping translate academic findings into practical recommendations that policymakers and other stakeholders can understand and potentially apply.

5. Write Blogs and Research Publications

The selected candidate will also contribute to various written knowledge products.

These may include:

• Blog articles
• Research papers
• Journal articles
• Policy outputs
• Other knowledge products

This means candidates should be comfortable communicating complex academic information clearly and accurately.

Strong academic and analytical writing will be particularly important for this aspect of the internship.

6. Prepare and Analyze Research Materials

The intern will assist with the preparation, organization and analysis of research materials and evidence.

This responsibility requires attention to detail and the ability to work systematically with academic information.

Expected Outputs

During the internship, the successful candidate is expected to contribute to several research and knowledge products.

These include:

Research Briefs and Literature Reviews

The intern may contribute to research briefs and comprehensive literature reviews examining neuroscience, learning, AI and higher education.

Policy Recommendations

The intern will contribute to recommendations examining how neuroscience and learning science can be incorporated into educational policymaking.

Blog Articles and Public-Facing Content

The internship also provides an opportunity to contribute to blogs and other materials designed to communicate research findings to broader audiences.

Academic Publications

The intern may contribute to drafts or research supporting journal articles and other academic publications.

Springer Book Research

A significant component of the internship will involve research and analysis contributing to the forthcoming Springer book on artificial intelligence and higher education.

Learning Opportunities and Professional Development

The internship is designed not only to support UNU’s research activities but also to provide professional development for the selected intern.

1. Strengthen Research Skills

Interns will gain practical experience conducting research in a professional international research environment.

This can strengthen abilities in:

• Literature reviews
• Evidence synthesis
• Research analysis
• Academic writing
• Research organization
• Knowledge production

2. Learn to Translate Research Into Policy

One of the most valuable learning objectives is developing the ability to transform research findings into policy-relevant outputs.

This is particularly useful for individuals interested in careers involving:

• Public policy
• International development
• Education policy
• Research
• Think tanks
• Academia
• International organizations
• Technology policy

3. Gain United Nations Experience

The internship provides exposure to the working environment of the United Nations University.

Experience within a UN institution can help candidates better understand how international organizations conduct research, generate evidence and contribute to global policy discussions.

4. Work in a Multicultural Environment

UNU operates within an international and multicultural environment.

The internship therefore offers an opportunity to develop experience collaborating across different cultural, academic and professional backgrounds.

Required Qualifications

Applicants must meet the academic and professional requirements outlined for the position.

Educational Requirements

Candidates must have a Master’s degree or higher in one of the following areas:

• Neuroscience
• Education
• Learning sciences
• Psychology
• Artificial intelligence
• Social sciences
• A related field

The interdisciplinary nature of the position means that candidates from different academic backgrounds may be considered, provided their expertise is relevant to the research focus.

Required Skills and Experience

Applicants should demonstrate strong capabilities in research and academic writing.

Key requirements include:

Strong Research Skills

Candidates should have experience conducting structured and rigorous research.

Analytical Skills

The position requires the ability to analyze academic evidence, identify important findings and synthesize information.

Academic Writing

Applicants should be capable of producing clear, well-structured academic and research-oriented writing.

Literature Review Experience

Candidates should demonstrate the ability to conduct literature reviews and synthesize findings from academic research.

Interest in Interdisciplinary Research

Applicants should have a strong interest in the intersection of:

Neuroscience + Learning + Artificial Intelligence + Higher Education

Ability to Work Independently

Because the position is remote, applicants must be able to organize their workload, manage deadlines and work effectively with limited direct supervision.

Language Requirements

Candidates must have:

• Excellent written English
• Excellent spoken English

Knowledge of another United Nations official language is considered an advantage.

Applicants who can demonstrate multilingual communication skills may therefore have an additional strength, although English proficiency is the primary language requirement specified for the position.

Core Values and Competencies

The internship follows UNU’s core values and competency framework.

Core Values

Candidates are expected to demonstrate:

• Respect for diversity
• Integrity
• Professionalism

Core Competencies

The position also emphasizes:

• Awareness and sensitivity regarding gender issues
• Accountability
• Creative problem solving
• Effective communication
• Inclusive collaboration

Applicants should consider demonstrating these competencies through their cover letter, CV and examples of previous research or professional work.

Who Can Apply?

The opportunity is open to qualified candidates who meet the stated academic and skills requirements.

Applicants should have:

• A Master’s degree or above
• A background in neuroscience, education, learning sciences, psychology, AI, social sciences or a related field
• Strong research and analytical abilities
• Strong academic writing skills
• Experience conducting literature reviews
• An interest in neuroscience, learning, AI and higher education
• The ability to work independently in a remote environment
• Excellent written and spoken English

UNU specifically states that it welcomes applications regardless of gender, nationality, religious or ethnic background, and encourages applications from persons living with disabilities.

The organization also strongly encourages applications from developing countries and women.

Therefore, the announcement does not restrict applicants to a particular continent or nationality. Qualified candidates from around the world can apply, subject to meeting the academic, skills and other requirements.

Application Requirements

Interested applicants must submit an application containing the following materials:

1. Cover Letter

Applicants should submit a brief cover letter written in English.

The cover letter should explain:

• Why the applicant is interested in the internship
• Their relevant qualifications
• Their suitability for the research position
• Their interest in neuroscience, learning, AI and higher education

The cover letter should be specifically tailored to the position rather than being a generic application letter.

2. Current CV

Applicants must submit a current and complete CV in English.

The CV should clearly demonstrate relevant:

• Academic qualifications
• Research experience
• Publications or academic writing
• Professional experience
• Analytical skills
• Relevant projects
• Research interests

3. Examples of Relevant Research Work

Applicants must provide examples of relevant research work in English.

This could be particularly important because the internship is heavily research-focused. Candidates should therefore select examples that demonstrate their ability to conduct research, analyze evidence and communicate academic findings effectively.

Documents Required if Invited for an Interview

Candidates who are invited for an interview will be required to submit additional documentation before the interview.

These include:

Proof of Education Status

Applicants may provide documents such as:

• Academic transcripts
• Proof of enrollment
• Other documents confirming their education status

Health and Life/Accident Insurance

Selected candidates must have health and life/accident insurance valid for the duration and location in which the internship is carried out.

This requirement should be taken seriously when preparing for the internship because the selected intern is responsible for having the required insurance coverage.

Selection and Assessment Process

UNU may assess qualified applicants through one or more stages.

The assessment process may include:

1. Desk review of applications
2. Competency-based interview
3. Reference checks

Candidates should therefore prepare to discuss their academic background, research experience, analytical abilities, writing skills and motivation for joining UNU.

A competency-based interview may also explore examples of how candidates have demonstrated communication, accountability, problem solving, collaboration and other relevant competencies.

Important Information About the Remote Internship

The position is explicitly described as a remote internship.

This means applicants do not need to relocate to Macau to carry out the internship.

However, candidates should understand that remote work still requires:

• Reliable communication
• Independent time management
• Consistent availability
• Ability to meet deadlines
• Strong written communication
• Ability to collaborate virtually
• Access to an appropriate working environment

Visa and Employment Considerations

UNU states that it does not sponsor a working visa for this position.

Because this is a remote internship, applicants should carefully consider the location from which they will undertake the internship and ensure they can legally participate from that location.

The internship is also intended to complement an intern’s studies and is not intended to lead directly to further employment with UNU.

Therefore, candidates should not regard the internship as a guaranteed pathway to a permanent or temporary position within the organization.

Status of Interns at UNU

Interns should also be aware that they do not have the same status as United Nations staff members.

According to the vacancy information:

• Interns may not represent UNU in an official capacity.
• Interns do not hold international civil servant status.
• Interns are not considered staff members under the UN Staff Rules and Regulations.

Applicants should therefore distinguish between gaining experience through a UNU internship and being employed as a member of the United Nations international civil service.

Insurance and Personal Responsibility

UNU states that it accepts no responsibility for costs arising from accidents, illness or death incurred during the internship.

Selected interns must therefore ensure that they have the required health and life/accident insurance coverage for the relevant period.

Why This Internship Could Be Valuable for Researchers

This opportunity offers several potential benefits for postgraduate researchers and early-career professionals.

International Research Exposure

Working with a United Nations University institute can provide experience in an international research environment.

Interdisciplinary Experience

The internship brings together several rapidly developing fields, including artificial intelligence, neuroscience, learning sciences and higher education.

Academic Publication Experience

Contributing to research associated with a forthcoming Springer publication can provide valuable exposure to the academic publication process.

Policy Research Experience

The role emphasizes translating research into policy recommendations, making it relevant to candidates interested in evidence-based policymaking.

Writing and Knowledge Production

Interns can gain experience producing research briefs, blogs, academic papers and other knowledge products.

Remote International Collaboration

The position provides an opportunity to develop experience working remotely in an international and multicultural setting.

How to Prepare a Strong Application

Applicants can improve their applications by making sure every document directly reflects the requirements of the internship.

Tailor Your Cover Letter

Your cover letter should clearly connect your academic background and research experience to the internship’s focus.

Rather than simply stating that you are interested in AI or education, explain how your previous work relates to the intersection of neuroscience, learning, AI and higher education.

Highlight Research Experience

Your CV should make research experience easy to identify.

Include relevant:

• Research projects
• Literature reviews
• Publications
• Academic papers
• Policy research
• Research reports
• Data analysis
• Conferences or research presentations

Select Strong Writing Samples

Because academic writing is an important requirement, choose research samples that demonstrate your ability to synthesize evidence and communicate complex ideas clearly.

Demonstrate Independent Working Ability

Since this is a remote position, applicants should demonstrate examples of successfully managing research or professional responsibilities independently.

Show Policy-Relevant Thinking

Candidates can strengthen their application by demonstrating that they understand the importance of translating research into practical recommendations for policymakers, institutions and other stakeholders.

Application Deadline and Key Dates

Applicants should take note of the following dates:

• Application deadline: September 18, 2026
• Deadline time: 11:59 p.m. Macau time (GMT+8)
• Expected start date: October 5, 2026
• Expected end date: December 4, 2026
• Duration: 2 months
• Mode: Remote

Because the application page will no longer be operational after the deadline, applicants should avoid waiting until the final hours to submit their materials.

Scam Warning

Applicants should be alert to recruitment scams.

UNU states that it does not charge application, processing, training, interviewing, testing or other recruitment fees.

Applicants should therefore be cautious of anyone requesting payment in exchange for:

• Application processing
• Interview invitations
• Recruitment
• Training
• Testing
• Selection
• Placement

Applicants should also be careful when providing personal information because organizational names, logos, addresses and other identifying information can be copied and misused by scammers.

Applications should be submitted through the official UNU recruitment platform.

Visit HERE for more information about the Remote Research Internship at United Nations University.

Application Link

Interested candidates should apply through the official United Nations University careers platform and carefully review the vacancy requirements before submitting their application.

Apply for the UNU Remote Research Internship

APPLY HERE

Conclusion

The United Nations University Remote Research Internship in Neuroscience, Learning and AI in Higher Education offers an interdisciplinary research opportunity for Master’s-level and above candidates interested in the rapidly evolving relationship between artificial intelligence, neuroscience, learning and higher education.

The two-month remote internship will allow the successful candidate to contribute to research supporting a forthcoming Springer publication while developing practical skills in literature reviews, evidence synthesis, academic writing, policy research and knowledge production. The opportunity also provides exposure to a United Nations research environment and experience working within an international, multicultural setting.

With applications closing on September 18, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Macau time (GMT+8), eligible candidates should prepare their cover letter, CV and relevant research samples early and ensure that their application clearly demonstrates the research and academic capabilities required for the role.

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