United Nations University Job Vacancy 2026 – Remote Research Internship
United Nations University (UNU)Remote Research Internship – Neuroscience, Learning and AI in Higher Education | UNU Vacancy 2026
United Nations University (UNU) is inviting applications for a Remote Research Internship – Neuroscience, Learning and AI in Higher Education with the UNU Institute in Macau (UNU Macau).
This 2-month remote internship is suitable for candidates with a Master’s degree or higher in neuroscience, education, learning sciences, psychology, artificial intelligence, social sciences, or a related field. The intern will contribute to research on AI and higher education, neuroscience, learning science, educational policy, and related academic and policy outputs.
Job Summary
| Job Position | Research Intern – Neuroscience, Learning and AI in Higher Education |
|---|---|
| Organization | United Nations University (UNU) – UNU Macau |
| Job Location | Remote |
| Organization Location | Macau SAR, China |
| Employment Type | Internship |
| Duration | 2 months |
| Expected Start Date | October 5, 2026 |
| Expected End Date | December 4, 2026 |
| Stipend | $550 per month |
| Education | Master’s degree or above |
| Application Deadline | September 18, 2026 |
| Application Time | 11:59 PM Macau Time (GMT+8) |
About United Nations University
The United Nations University (UNU) is an international community of scholars engaged in policy-oriented research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination in support of the purposes and principles of the United Nations.
UNU conducts research addressing global challenges related to sustainable development, human welfare, conflict prevention, and other issues connected with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
About UNU Institute in Macau
The UNU Institute in Macau (UNU Macau) is one of the research and training institutes within the UNU system. Its work focuses on the intersection of digital technology and sustainable development.
UNU Macau conducts policy-relevant research and develops evidence-based solutions addressing challenges under the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Institute also supports the development of researchers and professionals working across computing, information, social sciences, and related fields.
Key Responsibilities
The selected Research Intern will work under the supervision of the Institute Director and contribute to ongoing research related to a forthcoming Springer publication on AI and higher education, as well as related policy and knowledge products.
Key responsibilities include:
- Conduct literature reviews and research on neuroscience, learning, education, and artificial intelligence in higher education.
- Support research and analysis for the forthcoming Springer book on AI and higher education.
- Explore how neuroscience and learning science can inform educational policy and practice.
- Contribute to policy outputs and recommendations related to neuroscience-informed approaches to education.
- Draft and contribute to blogs, research papers, journal articles, and other knowledge products.
- Support the preparation, organization, and analysis of research materials and evidence.
Expected Outputs
The intern is expected to contribute to:
- Research briefs and literature reviews.
- Policy recommendations concerning neuroscience, learning, and education.
- Blog articles and other public-facing knowledge products.
- Drafts or contributions to journal articles and academic publications.
- Research and analysis supporting the Springer book on AI and higher education.
Learning Opportunities
Through this internship, the selected candidate will gain experience in policy-oriented social science research within a United Nations research environment.
The internship is intended to support development of:
- Research and analytical skills.
- The ability to translate research findings into policy-relevant outputs.
- Experience working within a UN research environment.
- Experience working in a multicultural and international environment.
Required Qualifications
Education
Applicants must have:
- A Master’s degree or above in neuroscience, education, learning sciences, psychology, artificial intelligence, social sciences, or a related field.
Experience and Skills
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Strong research, analytical, and academic writing skills.
- Ability to conduct literature reviews and synthesize academic research.
- Strong interest in the intersection of neuroscience, learning, AI, and higher education.
- Ability to work independently and effectively in a remote environment.
Language Requirements
- Excellent written and spoken English is required.
- Working knowledge of another UN language is an advantage.
Core Values and Competencies
Core Values
- Respect for diversity.
- Integrity.
- Professionalism.
Core Competencies
- Awareness and sensitivity regarding gender issues.
- Accountability.
- Creative problem solving.
- Effective communication.
- Inclusive collaboration.
Internship Duration and Start Date
The internship is expected to run for 2 months, from:
October 5, 2026 to December 4, 2026
The position is fully remote.
Stipend
The vacancy lists a stipend of $550 per month.
Application Requirements
Interested applicants should submit:
- A brief cover letter in English explaining their interest in the internship and relevant qualifications.
- A current and complete CV in English.
- Examples of relevant research work in English.
Candidates invited for an interview may also be required to provide:
- Documents confirming their education status, such as a transcript or proof of enrollment.
- Proof of health and life/accident insurance valid for the duration and location of the internship.
Selected interns must have appropriate health and life insurance.
Application Deadline
September 18, 2026 at 11:59 PM Macau Time (GMT+8).
The application page is no longer operational after the application deadline.
Selection Process
Evaluation of qualified applicants may include:
- Desk review of applications.
- Competency-based interview.
- Reference checks.
Important Information
This is a remote internship. UNU does not sponsor a working visa for this position.
The UNU Internship Programme is intended to complement an intern’s studies and does not imply or guarantee further employment with UNU after completion of the internship.
Interns may not represent UNU in an official capacity and do not hold international civil servant status or staff-member status under the United Nations Staff Rules and Regulations.
UNU also states that it does not charge applicants any application, processing, training, interview, testing, or recruitment fees.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply through the official United Nations University careers portal:
Apply for the UNU Remote Research Internship
Application Deadline: September 18, 2026, 11:59 PM Macau Time (GMT+8).
Get New Job Alerts on Telegram
Join ETcareers on Telegram to receive the latest jobs in Ethiopia, NGO jobs, bank vacancies, fresh graduate jobs, internships, and remote job opportunities.
Get daily job alerts and new vacancy updates directly on Telegram.