International Institute for Sustainable Development Offers Research and Policy Internship Opportunity in Geneva
The International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) has opened applications for its Geneva Internship Program – Autumn 2026, providing students studying at universities in Switzerland with an opportunity to gain practical experience in sustainable development research, policy analysis, communications, and international project work.
The internship programme is designed to support the next generation of sustainability professionals by allowing students to apply academic knowledge to real-world challenges while working alongside experts at IISD’s Geneva office.
Applications are open until 31 July 2026.
About the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD)
IISD is an independent global think tank working to accelerate solutions for a stable climate, sustainable resource management, and fair economies.
The organization collaborates with governments, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and communities to develop practical solutions that support people and the planet.
With more than 200 experts worldwide, IISD operates from offices in:
- Geneva, Switzerland.
- Winnipeg, Canada.
- Ottawa, Canada.
- Toronto, Canada.
The organization’s work influences sustainable development policies and initiatives across nearly 100 countries.
Overview of the IISD Geneva Internship Programme
The IISD Geneva Internship Program offers students the chance to gain direct professional experience within an international policy research environment.
Interns are assigned to IISD teams working across different areas of sustainable development, including:
- Economic Law and Policy.
- Energy and climate transition.
- Climate resilience.
- Communications.
- Project management.
- Monitoring and evaluation.
- Mining, minerals, and sustainable development.
The programme helps students strengthen research, writing, analytical, communication, and project management skills while contributing to IISD’s global work.
Internship Research and Policy Areas
Economic Law and Policy
The Economic Law and Policy team focuses on international economic systems and their relationship with sustainable development.
Areas of work include:
- International trade.
- Investment policy.
- Taxation.
- Infrastructure.
- Public procurement.
- Sustainable finance.
- Agriculture.
- Mining.
- Sustainability standards.
The team also supports governments through technical assistance, research, and policy advice linked to international organizations and agreements.
Energy and Climate Transition
The Energy team works on solutions to accelerate clean energy transitions and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Interns may support research related to:
- Fossil fuel subsidy reform.
- Renewable energy transitions.
- Climate policy.
- Sustainable energy systems.
- International climate agreements.
The team contributes to global initiatives involving organizations such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the G20.
Climate Resilience
The Resilience team focuses on helping governments and communities manage climate risks and strengthen adaptation strategies.
Work areas include:
- Climate adaptation planning.
- Nature-based solutions.
- Environmental security.
- Peacebuilding.
- National Adaptation Plans.
- Inclusive climate policies.
Communications and Engagement
Interns working with communications teams may contribute to:
- Research articles.
- Newsletters.
- Press releases.
- Social media content.
- Policy communications.
- Events and webinars.
- Data visualization projects.
Eligibility Requirements
The internship is specifically open to students enrolled at universities based in Switzerland.
Applicants must:
- Be enrolled in a Master’s degree or PhD programme.
- Study at a Swiss university during the internship period.
- Have the internship recognized as part of their academic curriculum and count toward academic credits.
- Demonstrate excellent academic performance.
- Be fluent in written and spoken English.
- Hold a valid Swiss residence permit or Swiss citizenship.
Eligible permits include:
- Student B permit.
- Regular B permit.
- C permit.
Applications that do not meet Geneva Canton requirements will not be considered.
Preferred Candidate Profile
Additional consideration will be given to applicants who demonstrate:
- Previous professional experience related to IISD’s work areas.
- Research experience in sustainability, climate policy, economics, law, or international development.
- Knowledge of additional languages, especially French or Spanish.
- Strong academic or professional references.
All applications must be submitted in English and include:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Cover letter explaining the IISD programme area of interest and motivation for applying.
Internship Duration and Timeline
The Autumn 2026 internship intake will run from:
- September 2026 to December 2026
Internships last:
- Minimum: 3 months
- Maximum: 4 months (or longer with university approval)
Working hours include:
- Up to 15 hours per week during academic terms.
- Up to 40 hours per week during university holidays.
- Full-time arrangements may be possible where the internship forms part of academic credit requirements.
Financial Support
IISD does not provide a salary or full internship funding package.
However, successful interns receive:
- An allowance equivalent to a monthly Geneva public transport pass.
- A daily allowance to support lunchtime meal expenses.
The organization does not provide accommodation funding or housing assistance but may provide information about available accommodation resources.
Application Deadline
Interested candidates must submit their applications by:
31 July 2026
Selected candidates will be contacted after the deadline for possible virtual interviews.
Benefits of the IISD Internship Programme
The internship provides students with valuable professional development opportunities, including:
- Experience working with an international sustainability organization.
- Exposure to global environmental and economic policy issues.
- Development of research and communication skills.
- Professional mentorship from IISD experts.
- Networking opportunities with sustainability professionals.
- Practical experience supporting international policy initiatives.
Location
Organisation: International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD)
Programme: Geneva Internship Program – Autumn 2026
Location: Geneva, Switzerland
Employment Type: Internship
The IISD Geneva Internship Programme provides an opportunity for Swiss-based postgraduate students to gain meaningful experience in sustainable development policy research while contributing to global efforts addressing climate change, economic sustainability, and environmental challenges
