The UNFCCC is recruiting interns for its Strategy and UN Affairs Team to support research on artificial intelligence and climate change. Apply by 22 July 2026.
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is inviting applications for an exciting internship within its Strategy and UN Affairs Team, offering graduate students and final-year undergraduate students the opportunity to contribute to one of the world’s most rapidly evolving policy areas: the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and climate change.
The internship is based within the UNFCCC Secretariat and provides successful candidates with first-hand experience supporting international climate diplomacy, strategic policy development, and multilateral cooperation. Applications close on 22 July 2026, with the successful intern expected to begin as soon as possible.
A Unique Opportunity at the Intersection of AI and Climate Policy
As artificial intelligence continues transforming economies and societies, its implications for climate action have become increasingly significant. AI has the potential to accelerate clean energy deployment, improve climate adaptation, strengthen disaster preparedness, optimize electricity systems, and enhance scientific understanding of climate change.
At the same time, the rapid expansion of AI technologies raises concerns about growing electricity consumption, increased demand for water and critical minerals, expanding data centre infrastructure, and broader governance and equity challenges.
Recognizing these opportunities and risks, the UNFCCC Strategy and UN Affairs Team is strengthening its capacity to understand how AI will shape the future of international climate cooperation and implementation of the Paris Agreement.
The internship offers aspiring researchers and policy professionals an opportunity to contribute directly to this emerging global agenda.
About the Strategy and UN Affairs Team
The Strategy and UN Affairs Team works closely with the Executive Secretary and senior leadership of the UNFCCC Secretariat.
Its responsibilities include:
- Identifying emerging strategic priorities
- Supporting long-term institutional strategy
- Strengthening international cooperation
- Conducting political and policy analysis
- Building partnerships across governments and international organizations
- Exploring emerging issues shaping global climate governance
The selected intern will join a dynamic team working at the forefront of international climate policy.
Internship Responsibilities
Under the supervision of the Chief of Strategy and UN Affairs, the intern will undertake research and strategic analysis supporting the Secretariat’s work on AI and climate change.
Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting horizon scanning on emerging AI and climate developments
- Monitoring international AI governance and climate policy initiatives
- Researching AI applications in climate mitigation and adaptation
- Analysing AI’s implications for energy systems, electricity grids, and data centres
- Preparing briefing notes and background papers for senior leadership
- Supporting the development of strategic recommendations on AI-related climate issues
- Mapping international stakeholders, institutions, and partnerships
- Assisting with expert consultations, workshops, and stakeholder dialogues
- Preparing speeches, presentations, and communication materials
- Supporting additional strategic research assignments as required
The role combines policy research, strategic analysis, and stakeholder engagement within a multilateral environment.
Expected Outputs
Throughout the internship, the successful candidate will contribute to several strategic knowledge products.
Expected outputs include:
- Horizon-scanning reports on AI and climate trends
- Briefing notes for senior management
- Stakeholder and institutional mapping exercises
- Literature reviews and evidence summaries
- Strategic policy analyses
- Background papers informing future UNFCCC engagement on AI
These outputs will help strengthen the Secretariat’s understanding of one of the fastest-growing areas influencing global climate governance.
Learning Opportunities
The internship offers valuable professional development for students interested in international affairs, technology policy, and climate governance.
Participants will have the opportunity to:
- Gain practical experience in international climate diplomacy
- Develop expertise in AI and climate policy
- Understand multilateral decision-making processes
- Engage with governments, academia, civil society, and industry experts
- Strengthen analytical and policy-writing skills
- Build experience within a United Nations institution
The placement is particularly valuable for individuals considering careers in international organizations, climate policy, or emerging technology governance.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following academic requirements throughout the internship period:
- Be enrolled in a graduate programme (Master’s, equivalent, or PhD); or
- Be enrolled in the final year of a bachelor’s degree programme.
Applicants should be studying a relevant discipline.
Preferred academic backgrounds include:
- International Relations
- Political Science
- Public Policy
- Environmental Studies
- Climate Change
- Artificial Intelligence
- Computer Science
- Energy Studies
- International Development
- Law
- Economics
Required Skills
Successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Excellent analytical and research skills
- Strong academic writing ability
- Capacity to synthesise complex technical information
- Fluency in English
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Knowledge of any of the following areas is considered an advantage:
- AI governance
- Climate diplomacy
- Energy systems
- Technology policy
- International climate negotiations
Knowledge of another United Nations language is also desirable.
Internship Duration and Working Arrangement
The internship will initially run for three months, with the possibility of extension to six months depending on organisational needs.
Working arrangements include:
- Hybrid working model
- On-site work in Bonn may be discussed
- Remote work may be required for part of the internship depending on visa or permit arrangements
Applicants undertaking remote work must have suitable IT equipment and reliable internet access.
Internship Conditions
Applicants should note that the internship is unpaid.
Selected interns will be responsible for:
- Travel expenses
- Accommodation costs
- Medical insurance
- Living expenses
- Other personal costs associated with the internship
The internship typically involves 40 hours of work per week, although alternative arrangements may be agreed with the hiring manager.
Application Process
Interested applicants must submit their application through the UNFCCC online recruitment system before the deadline.
Applications should include:
- Online application form
- Cover letter
- Supporting documents demonstrating eligibility
Candidates are encouraged to prepare their materials early, as applications close on 22 July 2026.
Key Dates at a Glance
- Organisation: United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
- Team: Strategy and UN Affairs
- Location: Hybrid (Bonn, Germany/Remote)
- Duration: Three months (extendable to six months)
- Start Date: As soon as possible
- Application Deadline: 22 July 2026
- Compensation: Unpaid internship
Why This Internship Matters
Artificial intelligence is increasingly reshaping global responses to climate change, from accelerating renewable energy deployment to improving climate adaptation and resilience. The UNFCCC’s Strategy and UN Affairs Team internship offers aspiring researchers and policy professionals a rare opportunity to contribute to strategic thinking at the highest level of international climate governance. For students interested in climate diplomacy, AI governance, energy transitions, and multilateral policymaking, this internship provides invaluable exposure to one of the defining policy challenges of the coming decades.
