Become a Research Assistant Intern at the United Nations. The United Nations ECLAC is now accepting applications for the 2026 Research Assistant Internship in Santiago, Chile. Open to Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students or recent graduates. No experience required.
Overview
The United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) is offering a Research Assistant Internship within the CEPAL Review Unit. This role provides a rare opportunity to gain hands-on experience in economic research, academic analysis, and development policy under one of the UN’s regional commissions.
The internship is open to students and recent graduates from any country and is designed to enhance research skills while supporting regional development work.
Duration ranges from 3 to 4 months, with a possible extension to 6 months depending on office needs.
For more opportunities like these, be sure to follow us on Facebook, join our WhatsApp Group and Channel, and connect with us on LinkedIn, and Follow our Twitter Page.
Become a Research Assistant Intern at the United Nations
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Internship Title | Research Assistant Intern |
| Organization | United Nations – ECLAC |
| Duty Station | Santiago, Chile |
| Job Opening ID | 258364 |
| Internship Duration | 3 months, extendable up to 6 months |
| Work Location | CEPAL Review Unit |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD students or recent graduates |
| Experience Required | None |
| Languages | English required; other UN languages an advantage |
| Compensation | Unpaid (standard UN internship policy) |
| Deadline | 4 December 2025 |
About the United Nations ECLAC
Founded in 1948, the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) is one of the UN’s five regional commissions. Its mission is to advance economic and social development across the region through evidence-based research, policy design, advisory services, and capacity building.
The CEPAL Review Unit produces research publications and academic studies focused on development trends, inequality, economic growth, and regional public policy.
What You Will Do as a Research Assistant Intern
Research and Information Gathering
- Search, collect, and organize data, publications, and reference materials related to economic and social development.
- Extract relevant information from academic databases, policy reports, and UN resources.
Academic Article Review
- Critically review academic papers submitted to the CEPAL Review.
- Provide analytical support and summaries.
Administrative and Research Support
- Support minor tasks within the Division.
- Assist the Review Unit with document preparation, organization, and coordination.
Eligibility Requirements
Academic Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following:
- Be in the final year of a Bachelor’s programme.
- Be enrolled in a Master’s or PhD programme.
- Have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD within the past 12 months.
Proof of enrollment or completion will be required.
Skills and Competencies
- Good command of MS Word and MS PowerPoint.
- Ability to draft research notes and working papers (highly desirable).
- Strong analytical and organizational skills.
- Ability to work in a multicultural, academic, and international environment.
Languages
- Fluency in English (spoken and written) required.
- Knowledge of another UN official language (Spanish, French, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian) is an asset.
- Spanish is particularly helpful given the duty station.
Internship Conditions
Equipment and Email Access
- Interns may need to bring their own laptop.
- Institutional email accounts may not be provided; personal email may be used.
- Internet access is available through a guest network if no institutional account is assigned.
Financial Considerations
- The UN internship is unpaid.
- All expenses (visa, travel, accommodation, insurance) must be covered by the intern or their university/sponsor.
- Visa or work authorization requirements must be discussed before acceptance.
Benefits of Joining the UN ECLAC Internship
- Direct experience in high-level economic and development research.
- Mentoring and supervision by experienced UN researchers.
- Exposure to academic publishing processes and development policy debates.
- An opportunity to strengthen international development and research credentials.
- Networking with economists, academics, policymakers, and regional experts.
How to Apply UN ECLAC Internship
- Visit the United Nations Careers Portal.
- Search for Job Opening ID 258364 or “Research Assistant Intern – ECLAC”.
- Prepare the required documents:
- Updated CV
- Proof of enrollment or degree completion
- Cover letter detailing your interest
- Submit your application through the UN Inspira portal before the deadline.
- Shortlisted candidates may be contacted at any point during the posting period.
Applicants must apply only through the official UN Careers Portal. The UN does not charge fees at any stage of recruitment.
For more opportunities like these, be sure to follow us on Facebook, join our WhatsApp Group and Channel, and connect with us on LinkedIn, and Follow our Twitter Page.
APPLY NOW
ALSO CHECK: UNCTAD Fully Remote Economic Affairs Research Internships 2026 – Apply Now
FAQs
Is the internship paid?
No, the internship is unpaid, as per UN internship policy.
Can international students apply?
Yes. Applicants from any nationality may apply, provided they meet the academic requirements.
Is professional experience required?
No experience is required.
What skills will I gain?
You’ll develop research skills, academic analysis techniques, UN documentation knowledge, and experience in development policy.
Is the internship remote or in-person?
The duty station is Santiago, Chile, though remote arrangements depend on evolving UN guidelines.
Keywords
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