Current vacancies
UNU jobs
UNU (United Nations University) publishes vacancies on its own career portal; UNlockit lists every currently-open role here, refreshed daily from the agency's source. This page surfaces internships, consultancies, fixed-term, and temporary positions across country offices, regional offices, and headquarters. Each posting links back to the official United Nations University application page.
- Open roles
- 12
- Organisations
- 1
- Last refreshed
- 7/21/2026
Latest open roles
Administrative Assistant I (FTA GS-3)
United Nations University · 🇯🇵 Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan
The Administrative Assistant I (FTA GS-3) at the United Nations University (UNU) Centre in Tokyo provides critical administrative, financial, and operational support to the Centre Administration. Reporting to the Operations Services Manager, the role involves managing cash flow, asset registers, invoicing, and general office administration. Key responsibilities include processing invoices via the ERP Payable module, assisting with year-end financial closing, and maintaining accurate financial documentation. The incumbent handles local bank transactions, including cash withdrawals and deposits, and coordinates with the UNU Treasury for remittances and fund transfers. Asset management duties involve updating databases, verifying assets, and managing additions or disposals. The role also requires creating and monitoring invoices, liaising with other UN agencies for billing, and supporting the travel unit with policy interpretation and documentation. Additional tasks include preparing tax exemption documents, assisting procurement, updating supplier information, and maintaining operational manuals. The ideal candidate possesses strong administrative and finance skills, proficiency in Excel and ERP systems, and the ability to multitask in a result-oriented manner. Fluency in English and a good command of oral and written Japanese are mandatory. The position is a fixed-term contract starting January 1, 2027, with an application deadline of August 19, 2026.
Closes 8/19/2026Administrative Assistant II (FTA GS-3)
United Nations University · 🇯🇵 Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan
The Administrative Assistant II (FTA GS-3) at the United Nations University (UNU) Centre in Tokyo provides comprehensive administrative, financial, and human resources support to the Tokyo office. Reporting to the Operations Services Manager, the role involves managing protocol relations with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, including visa applications and diplomatic documentation. Key responsibilities include maintaining asset and cash management databases, processing payments, and assisting with year-end financial closing. The incumbent also handles HR administrative tasks such as headcount reporting, immigration documentation, and staff welfare fund processes. The position requires strong organizational skills, proficiency in Excel and ERP systems, and a solid understanding of basic accounting principles. The ideal candidate is self-motivated, result-oriented, and capable of multitasking in a fast-paced environment. Fluency in English and Japanese is mandatory, with knowledge of other UN languages considered an asset. This is a fixed-term contract starting January 2027, offering a tax-exempt compensation package and benefits.
Closes 8/19/2026Administrative and Finance Coordinator (PSA-6)
United Nations University · 🇨🇦 Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
The United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH) is seeking an Administrative and Finance Coordinator to serve as the Finance focal point for the institute. Reporting to the Administrative and Finance Officer, the incumbent ensures the execution of transparent and efficient HR, finance, and administrative services. Key responsibilities include supporting day-to-day financial operations in compliance with UN/UNU rules, performing accounting activities in the QUANTUM ERP system, and assisting with budget planning, forecasting, and audit preparations. The role also involves managing procurement activities, maintaining the asset register, and coordinating travel logistics for staff and visitors. On the HR side, the coordinator provides administrative support for recruitment, onboarding, and contract administration, while ensuring compliance with personnel policies. Additional duties include general office administration, document management, and facilitating office facilities management. The ideal candidate possesses strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under minimal supervision in a fast-paced, multi-cultural environment. Fluency in English is required, with knowledge of another UN official working language considered an asset. This is a fixed-term Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) contract.
Closes 8/1/2026Administrative and HR Associate (PSA-5)
United Nations University · 🇨🇦 Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
The United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH) is seeking an Administrative and HR Associate (PSA-5) to serve as the HR focal point for the institute. Reporting to the Administrative and Finance Officer, the incumbent will manage end-to-end HR administrative services, including recruitment, onboarding, benefits, leave monitoring, and personnel file maintenance. The role also involves supporting finance and procurement activities, such as supplier management, accounts payable/receivable, and travel claims processing within the Quantum ERP system. Additionally, the associate provides general administrative support, including visa applications and office administration. The ideal candidate possesses strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle sensitive information with integrity. They must demonstrate proficiency in HR policies, financial processes, and office software, with a preference for experience in UN systems. The role requires fluency in English and the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment. This is a one-year renewable Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) contract based in Richmond Hill, Canada, with an immediate start date.
Closes 8/1/2026Administrative and Finance Officer (NO-B)
United Nations University · 🇨🇦 Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
The United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH) seeks an Administrative and Finance Officer (NO-B) to lead the institute's administrative, finance, and human resources operations. Reporting to the Director, the incumbent acts as a strategic advisor and leader of the Administrative and Finance Unit, ensuring effective service delivery and compliance with UN and UNU regulations. Key responsibilities include managing day-to-day financial operations, leading budget formulation, overseeing procurement and asset management, and supervising HR activities. The role requires managing the administrative team, developing KPIs, and serving as an approving officer for financial and procurement matters. The ideal candidate possesses a Master’s degree in business administration, finance, or related fields, along with at least two years of professional experience in administrative, finance, operations, procurement, or HR functions. Proficiency in international accounting standards (IPSAS), ERP systems, and advanced Microsoft Excel is essential. The position demands strong leadership, analytical, and interpersonal skills, with fluency in English required and knowledge of another UN language desirable. This is a full-time, fixed-term appointment based in Richmond Hill, Canada, with an immediate start date.
Closes 8/14/2026Japan Outreach Communications Assistant (PSA-2)
United Nations University · 🇯🇵 Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan
The United Nations University seeks a Japan Outreach Communications Assistant to support visibility and engagement in Japan through digital and social media channels. The role involves managing UNU’s Japanese social media accounts, developing and editing website content, and creating social media strategies to increase followership and engagement. The assistant will also organize online and in-person outreach events, handle logistics, and assist with promotion and registration. A key responsibility is translating English materials into Japanese and proofreading Japanese content for newsletters, annual reports, and other editorial products. The candidate will compile translation content for the quarterly INSIGHTS newsletter and suggest ideas for new communication products. The role requires working in a multicultural team, operating with minimal supervision, and occasionally working after hours. The ideal candidate possesses exemplary bilingual skills in English and Japanese, experience with social media monitoring tools, and a background in communications, journalism, or related fields. This is a one-year renewable Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) contract based in Tokyo, with a maximum combined duration of six years.
Closes 8/11/2026Call for Application: Visiting Research Fellowship (2026) - BASED IN MACAU
United Nations University · Macau SAR, Macao
The United Nations University Institute in Macau (UNU Macau) invites applications for its Visiting Research Fellowship Programme for 2026. This short-term, in-residence opportunity (1 to 3 months) is designed for talented researchers and practitioners to conduct policy-oriented research on Digital Emerging Technologies for Sustainable Development (DET4SD). Fellows will bridge the gap between technological innovation and decision-making tools needed by UN agencies and member states to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The role requires full physical presence in Macau and involves delivering tangible outputs such as academic articles, technical demos, or novel digital tools, alongside active engagement with the institute's research team. Candidates must be affiliated with an academic or research organization. The fellowship is open to two tracks: an Early-Career Track for advanced PhD students, postdocs, or junior academics with emerging publication records, and a Senior Track for established researchers or faculty with a PhD and substantial research impact. Financial support includes a monthly stipend, travel reimbursement, and housing subsidy. The program emphasizes strategic alignment, operational feasibility, innovation, and measurable social impact. Applicants must submit a CV, a primary research sample, and a detailed research proposal. The application deadline is July 24, 2026, for fellowships occurring between September and December 2026.
Closes 7/24/2026Senior Researcher - Team Lead (P3) BASED IN MACAU
United Nations University · Macau SAR, Macao
The United Nations University Institute in Macau is seeking a Senior Researcher and Team Lead (P3) to direct research on Artificial Intelligence and its impact on the Sustainable Development Goals. Based in Macau, this role involves leading a multidisciplinary team to develop research programmes, manage project budgets, and oversee the execution of research activities. The incumbent will drive resource mobilization by establishing partnerships with governments, UN entities, and the private sector, while ensuring high-quality ethical research outputs. Responsibilities include mentoring junior staff, supervising ethical review processes, and disseminating findings through academic publications, policy briefs, and international conferences. The candidate must possess an interdisciplinary perspective on AI, expertise in AI tools, and a focus on policy-relevant applications such as AI governance, ethics, and sustainability. The role requires strong leadership, financial management, and communication skills to engage diverse stakeholders and contribute to UNU's mission of solving global challenges through evidence-based knowledge.
Closes 8/9/2026Head of Programme (PSA P5 equivalent; 60% part-time)
United Nations University · 🇯🇵 Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan
The United Nations University (UNU) seeks a Head of Programme to lead the Biodiversity and Society (BDS) Programme and the UNU-IAS Operating Unit Ishikawa/Kanazawa (OUIK). Reporting to the UNU-IAS Director, this senior role involves establishing and managing academic programmes focused on Socio-Ecological Production Landscapes and Seascapes (SEPLS), contributing to global frameworks like the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Key responsibilities include leading policy-relevant research, facilitating capacity development, and managing the International Partnership for the Satoyama Initiative (IPSI). The incumbent will drive knowledge sharing, oversee strategic partnerships with entities such as UNEP and CBD, and manage public outreach and communications. A critical component of the role is leading fundraising and resource mobilization efforts, including donor relations and grant management. The position also supports institutional development by advising on strategic programming and enhancing educational activities. The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in biodiversity conservation, international diplomacy, and research leadership, with strong networks in Japan and globally. This is a part-time (60%) Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) contract based in Tokyo/Ishikawa, Japan, requiring fluency in English and Japanese.
Closes 7/30/2026Training & Educational Analyst (PSA Contract - BASED IN MACAU)
United Nations University · Macau, Macao
The United Nations University Institute in Macau is seeking a Training & Educational Analyst on a Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) contract to support its training, education, and degree programs. Based in Macau, the role involves designing and planning comprehensive training programs, delivering in-person and virtual learning sessions, and coordinating with internal and external stakeholders. Key responsibilities include conducting training needs assessments, developing instructional materials, facilitating engaging learning experiences, and evaluating program effectiveness through surveys and performance metrics. The analyst will also support organizational development by maintaining records, updating programs, and conducting research on emerging trends and instructional technologies. The ideal candidate possesses at least two years of professional experience in training, facilitation, or learning and development, with a background in higher education, corporate learning, or UN organizations being advantageous. Strong skills in instructional design, program marketing, and Microsoft Office are required, with proficiency in Generative AI and fluency in Chinese considered assets. The role demands excellent communication, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities within a multicultural environment. This is a full-time, on-site position with a one-year initial contract, renewable up to six years, requiring full-time residence in Macau.
Closes 8/2/2026Research Associate (PSA) - Inequality Between and Within Countries
United Nations University · 🇫🇮 Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland
The United Nations University (UNU-WIDER) is seeking a Research Associate to support its work program on inequality between and within countries. This role involves maintaining and developing the World Income Inequality Dataset (WIID), conducting quantitative research on development economics, and producing policy briefs and academic papers. The incumbent will also supervise external consultants and visiting PhD fellows, assist in organizing conferences, and provide program support. The ideal candidate holds a PhD in economics or political science with strong quantitative skills, proficiency in STATA and R, and experience in inequality analysis. The position requires excellent communication skills, the ability to work independently in a multicultural environment, and readiness for international travel. It is a fixed-term contract role with a focus on policy-relevant research to promote sustainable and equitable development.
Closes 7/22/2026Adjunct Professor/Researcher on the Resource Nexus (Roster)
United Nations University · 🇩🇪 Dresden, Sachsen, Germany
The United Nations University Institute for Integrated Management of Material Fluxes and of Resources (UNU Resource Nexus) is establishing a roster of Adjunct Professors and Researchers to support its mission in the sustainable use and integrated management of environmental resources. This role involves contributing to research and innovation, education, capacity development, and advocacy related to the Resource Nexus, which covers water, soil, material, biota, climate, space, food, waste, and energy. Selected candidates will collaborate with junior and senior researchers, assist in fundraising and policy analysis, publish research outcomes, and enhance the Institute's visibility and partnerships. The position is offered as an unpaid Academic Affiliation Agreement (AAA) or a Consultant Contract (CTC) for short-term assignments. While the AAA is unpaid, specific deliverables under CTCs are remunerated. The roster allows for rapid engagement when opportunities arise, with contracts initially lasting up to 12 months. Candidates must hold a PhD and have significant post-PhD research experience. The role requires strong communication skills, particularly in English, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multicultural environment. Successful candidates will be included on the roster for two years, facilitating future collaborations on specific projects.
Top organisations
- United Nations University12
Top countries
- Japan4
- Canada3
- Finland1
- Germany1
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All publicly listed staff positions, internships, and consultancy assignments posted on United Nations University's public career portal.
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