UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2025/26 in Tokyo, Japan | Paid & Prestigious

UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2025/26 in Tokyo, Japan | Paid & Prestigious

Applications are now open for the United Nations University (UNU) Junior Fellows Internship Programme 2025/26, held at UNU headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. This paid internship is considered one of the top United Nations opportunities in Japan and welcomes both Japanese and international applicants.

Interns will be based in the Shibuya district of Tokyo, working directly within the Office of the Rector. This is a unique chance for graduate students and early-career professionals to gain hands-on experience at the intersection of academic research and international policy.

Quick Overview

• Organization: United Nations University (UNU)

• Location: UNU HQ, Shibuya, Tokyo

• Duration: 6 months (24 weeks)

• Start Date: 26 August 2025

• End Date: 25 February 2026

• Application Deadline: 31 May 2025

• Status: Paid Internship

Internship Benefits

Selected interns will receive:

• Monthly stipend to help with Tokyo living expenses

• Transportation support to and from UNU’s offices

• Access to dedicated office space and equipment

• Free use of the UNU Library and on-site fitness center

• 1.5 days of paid leave each month

Internship Objectives

This programme is designed to:

• Facilitate meaningful engagement between interns and UNU personnel

• Provide insight into the workings of the Office of the Rector and UNU at large

• Offer practical experience in project management, communications, and administration

• Enhance professional and intercultural competencies in a multinational work environment

• Deepen interns’ understanding of UN policy, research, and global development issues

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Open to all nationalities

• Currently enrolled in or recently completed a Master’s or PhD program

• Under 32 years old at the time of application

• No more than 5 years of full-time work experience

• Fluency in English (written and spoken)

• Strong skills in research, writing, analysis, and Microsoft Office (especially Excel)

• Ability to collaborate in a diverse, international setting

• Demonstrated interest in the work of the UN and UNU

Required Documents

To complete your application, prepare the following:

• Updated CV

• Motivational cover letter

• Completed UNU application form

• Funding Form (specifying how you will support yourself financially while in Tokyo)

  • Download the Funding Form

• Letters of Recommendation + Recommendation Form

Note: If the application form asks for a “P11 Form,” you may upload your CV instead.

How to Apply

1. Apply online via the UNU Careers Portal

2. Upload all required documentation, including the Funding Form

3. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted

Why Apply?

This internship is more than just professional experience—it’s a launchpad into international policy, research, and global development work. With its unique blend of academic depth and operational engagement, the UNU Junior Fellows Internship is ideal for those ready to contribute meaningfully to the UN’s mission.

Deadline to apply: 31 May 2025