Join the UN as an Internet Research Intern – 6-Month Remote Internship (5 Positions, Paid)
Join the UN as an Internet Research Intern – 6-Month Remote Internship (5 Positions, Paid)
Background & Job Description
The International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM) was established by the United Nations to assist in the investigation and prosecution of individuals responsible for serious crimes under international law in Syria since March 2011. IIIM aims to collect, preserve, and analyze evidence to support accountability efforts for crimes committed in the Syrian Arab Republic.
This internship is within the Information Systems Management Section (ISMS) of IIIM. The section is responsible for information governance, data security, and managing large volumes of digital evidence. The Internet Research Intern will work closely with an Information Management Officer and an Associate Legal Officer to support tasks related to open-source research, information governance, and synthesizing relevant literature on topics of interest.
This unpaid, full-time internship (40 hours per week) offers a valuable opportunity for students and recent graduates to gain hands-on experience with a United Nations investigative mechanism. The internship is primarily remote, but adjustments can be made upon request by successful candidates.
The expected duration of the internship is six months, with a start date of May 1, 2025.
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Tasks
As an Internet Research Intern, the selected candidate will undertake a variety of responsibilities that contribute to IIIM’s work in information management and open-source research.
1. Open-Source Research & Analysis
- Conduct targeted internet-based research to collect information relevant to IIIM’s work.
- Analyze and summarize findings on political, economic, social, technological, and legal aspects of the ongoing situation in Syria.
- Identify reliable open-source materials and assist in assessing their credibility and relevance.
- Develop comprehensive research reports to support IIIM’s ongoing investigative efforts.
2. Information Governance Support
- Assist in developing frameworks and processes for managing information within IIIM.
- Support the maintenance and improvement of IIIM’s information systems for better data organization, security, and accessibility.
- Contribute to best practices in data protection, digital documentation, and archiving.
3. Literature Review & Research Methodologies
- Research and synthesize academic and policy-related literature on digital diplomacy, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and information governance.
- Identify emerging trends in investigative research techniques and data-driven decision-making.
4. Presentation & Reporting
- Compile relevant research findings into final presentations for IIIM staff.
- Assist in the preparation of internal reports, briefings, and summaries.
- Maintain clear documentation of all research activities.
5. Professional Conduct & Confidentiality
- Ensure the confidentiality of all records and information accessed during the internship.
- Work independently and collaboratively with team members while demonstrating professionalism and respect.
- Complete all assigned tasks accurately and meet deadlines.
Note: This internship does not involve direct work with evidentiary material contained in the IIIM’s Central Repository of Information and Evidence.
Join the UN as an Internet Research Intern – 6-Month Remote Internship
Qualifications
Education and Certification
To be eligible for the internship, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- Be enrolled in, or have completed, a graduate school program (master’s degree, Ph.D., or equivalent).
- Be enrolled in, or have completed, the final year of a bachelor’s degree program.
Fields of study related to the internship, such as digital diplomacy, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and/or information governance, are considered an advantage.
Experience
- No prior work experience is required for this internship.
- However, academic or research experience in open-source investigation, data analysis, international law, or digital information management is beneficial.
Languages
- Fluency in spoken and written English is required.
- Knowledge of Arabic is considered an advantage, but not mandatory.
- Additional proficiency in French or other UN languages is beneficial.
Additional Information
Application Requirements
A complete online application must include the following:
- Cover Letter – Explain your motivation for applying and indicate your availability.
- Original Writing Sample – A research or analytical writing sample in English (maximum 10 pages).
- Unofficial Transcripts – University transcripts, including courses taken and grades received.
- Three References – Provide contact details of three professional or academic references.
Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted by the hiring team for further evaluation.
Internship Conditions
- This is an unpaid internship. Interns are responsible for all related expenses, including travel, accommodation, and living costs.
- Interns must secure adequate insurance coverage for the duration of the internship.
- Interns must keep all unpublished information confidential and are prohibited from publishing reports or papers based on the internship experience unless explicitly authorized by the Head of IIIM.
- There is no expectation of employment with the United Nations or IIIM following the completion of the internship.
Work Authorization & Visa Requirements
- The internship is primarily remote. However, for in-person participation in Geneva, certain nationalities may require a visa.
- The IIIM will provide necessary supporting documents, but obtaining a visa is the responsibility of the selected candidate.
Diversity & Inclusion Commitment
The United Nations is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and strongly encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds, genders, and abilities.
The United Nations follows strict anti-discrimination policies and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities as needed during the recruitment process.
Ethical Considerations
- Individuals who are children or siblings of a UN staff member are not eligible to apply for this internship.
- Other family members of UN staff may apply but cannot be placed in the same work unit or under direct supervision of their relative.
- The role may involve exposure to sensitive materials, and candidates must be prepared for the ethical responsibilities that come with such exposure.
How to Apply
Interested applicants must submit their complete application by March 25, 2025. Early applications are encouraged as the review process is competitive.
For further details, visit the official United Nations careers website and search for Job Opening ID: 254586.
Final Thoughts
This prestigious United Nations internship offers a unique opportunity for students and recent graduates to gain firsthand experience in international legal research, digital governance, and open-source intelligence analysis. By joining IIIM-SYRIA, you will contribute to meaningful investigative work that supports justice and accountability on a global scale.
Apply today and take the first step toward a rewarding career in international law, digital research, and humanitarian investigations!
