Data Science Intern – Investigations Section - Regional Investigations (RBLAC & HQ) and Investigations Support Team (IST), (three internship posts)

Background

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are core principles at UNDP:  we value diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate, we foster inclusion as a way of ensuring all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, and we ensure equity and fairness in all our actions. Taking a ‘leave no one behind’ approach to our diversity efforts means increasing representation of underserved populations. People who identify as belonging to marginalized or excluded populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Learn more about working at UNDP including our values and inspiring stories.

 

UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks.

 

Duties and Responsibilities

 The interns will contribute to the development of functional applications that demonstrates the 
potential of leveraging technology and data-driven approaches, such as artificial intelligence (AI), 
machine learning (ML), or process automation to support and enhance internal audit and investigation 
functions. This may include augmenting existing OAI tools through advanced data analytics or 
streamlining manual processes through automation.

 Competencies

Demonstrates integrity. 
• Demonstrates the ability to remain objective, neutral, and independent. 
• Displays cultural sensitivity. 
• Produces timely, quality outputs. 
• Exercises sound judgment/analysis. 
• Ability to manage multiple tasks. 
• Writes clearly and effectively, and, 
• Speaks clearly and convincingly.

 

Required Skills and Experience

 Education:

 

Applicants must, at the time of the application, meet one of the following requirements:

Experience:

Working Languages:

• Fluency in written and spoken English is required.
• Fluency in Spanish, Portuguese, or French is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of additional United Nations official languages is an advantage.
Work arrangements
• Internships are located at UNDP Headquarters in New York; however, OAI may decide that the
role may be home-based.
• Interns would need to use their laptop/notebook if home-based.
• Internships will be full-time.
• The top applicants will be selected for internships starting around 22 June 2026 and for six
months.
• Additionally, USA based candidates must be eligible and able to obtain from the Designated School
Official the CPT student work authorization, or the OPT employment authorization from the US
authorities.
 

Application process

The application should contain the following uploaded as one file
• Current Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Cover Letter of up to 500 words addressing the following questions: (i) Why would you like to be considered for the internship, and what is your primary motivation for applying for this
role? (ii) What is your availability for a full-time internship with OAI?
• Please note that the UNDP job site system allows only one upload of application documents, so
please make sure you merge all your documents (CV/ Resume, Cover Letter, etc.) into a single
file before uploading.
 

Terms and Conditions

Internships within the UN system are subject to the following conditions, which the candidates
should familiarize themselves with before applying:
• The internship will last for six months.
• Interns who are not financially supported by an institution or program, such as a university,
government, foundation, or scholarship program, will receive a stipend in accordance with
UNDP rules and regulations. A stipend is intended to help cover basic daily expenses related to the
internship, such as meals and transportation at the duty station, which the receiving office
must pay.
• Costs and arrangements for travel, visas, passports, accommodation, and living expenses are
the responsibility of (a) The nominating institution, related institution, or government, which
may provide the required financial assistance to its students, or (b) The intern.
• Interns are responsible for securing adequate medical insurance for the duration of their
internship with UNDP and must provide a medical certificate of good health before starting the
internship. UNDP will not reimburse the intern's medical insurance. Any costs arising from
accidents and illnesses incurred during an internship assignment will be the intern's
responsibility.
• UNDP accepts no responsibility for loss or damage to personal effects that may occur during the
internship.
 

Subsequent Employment

The purpose of the Internship Programme is not to lead to further employment with UNDP but to
complement an intern's studies. Therefore, there should be no expectation of employment at the end
of an internship. Only those candidates who are shortlisted will be contacted for an interview.
 

Selected candidates must submit the following documents before being offered a Letter of
Acceptance for Internship

• A duly completed UNDP Internship Application Form.
• A signed UNDP Internship Agreement.
• A copy of their CV/resume.
• An official letter from the university confirming current enrolment and graduation date.
• A copy of their passport/national ID card.

•A copy of their school transcript.
• A letter of endorsement/recommendation from a professor linked to the candidate's
current course of studies.
• Proof of medical and life insurance is valid for the duty station and covers the duration of
the internship program.
Female applicants and qualified applicants from developing countries are especially
encouraged to apply. UNDP has zero tolerance for discrimination and does not discriminate based on
color, gender, religion, or any other status.
The United Nations does not charge any application, processing, training, interviewing, testing, or
other fee for the application or recruitment process. Should you receive a solicitation to pay a fee, please
disregard it. Furthermore, please note that emblems, logos, names, and addresses are easily copied and
reproduced. Therefore, you are advised to apply particular care when submitting personal information
online.

Disclaimer