The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has announced an important internship opportunity for students and recent graduates interested in environmental protection, wildlife conservation, and global crime research. The Wildlife Crime Research Intern position for 2026 is a prestigious United Nations internship based in Vienna, Austria, with flexible work arrangements.
This internship is part of UNODC’s Research and Trend Analysis Branch (RAB) under the Division for Policy Analysis and Public Affairs (DPA). Selected interns will contribute to research for the upcoming World Wildlife Crime Report 2026, a globally influential UN publication. Although unpaid, this internship offers exceptional exposure, learning, and international research experience.
About UNODC
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is a global leader in the fight against illicit drugs, organized crime, corruption, terrorism, and environmental crimes. UNODC works closely with governments, international organizations, and civil society to promote justice, security, and sustainable development.
Wildlife crime is a growing global threat, linked to organized crime networks, biodiversity loss, and environmental damage. UNODC plays a critical role in researching and addressing crimes that affect the environment, including wildlife trafficking.
Internship Overview
- Position Title: Wildlife Crime Research Intern
- Job Opening ID: 270149
- Category & Level: Internship (I-1)
- Department: UNODC – Research and Trend Analysis Branch
- Duty Station: Vienna, Austria (Flexible / Remote possible, Vienna preferred)
- Duration: 6 months
- Start Date: February 2026
- Working Hours: Full-time (40 hours per week)
- Internship Type: Unpaid
- Application Deadline: 25 January 2026
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This internship is ideal for students passionate about research, environmental policy, and international development.
Work Location & Environment
The primary duty station is Vienna, one of the major UN hubs in Europe. However, the internship allows flexible work arrangements, making it accessible to international applicants who may work remotely.
Interns will work under the supervision of experienced UN researchers and policy professionals, gaining first-hand exposure to UN research methodologies and global reporting standards.
Duties and Responsibilities
The selected intern will contribute directly to research supporting the World Wildlife Crime Report 2026, one of the most authoritative publications on wildlife trafficking. Key responsibilities include:
Research & Analysis
- Conducting desk-based and online literature research on wildlife trafficking and environmental crime
- Researching specific aspects of illegal wildlife trade
- Reviewing academic papers, policy reports, and official publications
Writing & Documentation
- Drafting annotated bibliographies related to wildlife crime
- Preparing literature reviews on selected wildlife crime themes
- Writing clear, evidence-based research summaries
Data & Citation Management
- Checking citations and references
- Supporting the management of citation software such as Zotero
- Ensuring accuracy and consistency in research documentation
Events & Dissemination
- Assisting with workshops, meetings, and UN events
- Supporting dissemination of research findings via social media and communication platforms
This role is research-intensive and suitable for candidates who enjoy reading, writing, and analytical work.
Educational Qualifications
Applicants must meet one of the following academic criteria:
- Currently enrolled in, or recently completed, a Master’s or PhD programme, or
- Enrolled in the final academic year of a Bachelor’s degree, or
- Recently completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree
A field of study closely related to the internship is required, such as:
- Criminology
- Environmental Studies
- International Relations
- Law
- Social Sciences
- Wildlife Conservation
- Environmental Policy
No prior professional work experience is required for UN internships.
Skills & Technical Requirements
To succeed in this internship, candidates should have:
- Strong research and analytical skills
- Ability to conduct thorough literature reviews
- Good command of MS Word, PowerPoint, and MS Teams
- Clear and accessible academic writing skills
- Familiarity with citation tools such as Zotero (desirable)
- Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
Language Requirements
- Fluency in English (written and spoken) is mandatory
- Knowledge of an additional UN language is an advantage, including:
- French
- Spanish
- Arabic
- Chinese
- Russian
English and French are the working languages of the UN Secretariat.
Internship Benefits
Although this internship is unpaid, it offers numerous long-term benefits:
- Prestigious United Nations work experience
- Direct contribution to a global UN report
- Exposure to international environmental crime research
- Opportunity to work with leading UN researchers
- Strong value addition to academic and professional CVs
- Networking within the UN system
- Ideal preparation for future UN consultancies or P-level roles
For students aiming for a career in international organizations, this internship is highly valuable.
Financial & Visa Information
- Interns do not receive financial remuneration from the UN
- Travel, accommodation, living expenses, and insurance are the intern’s responsibility
- Non-EU or non-resident candidates may require:
- Appropriate visa
- Work or internship authorization
Candidates should confirm visa requirements before accepting the offer.
Important Notice: No Application Fee
The United Nations does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process, including:
- Application
- Interview
- Processing
- Training
UNODC never asks for bank details or payments from applicants 2026.
How to Apply for UNODC Wildlife Crime Research Intern 2026
Follow these steps carefully:
- Visit the UN Careers Portal
- Search using Job Opening ID: 270149
- Create or log in to your UN Careers account
- Complete the online application form
- Upload:
- CV / Resume
- Proof of enrollment or degree completion
- Submit your application before 25 January 2026
Early application is strongly recommended due to high competition.
Who Should Apply?
This internship is perfect for:
- University students interested in wildlife protection
- Graduates planning a career in UN, NGOs, or research institutions
- Candidates passionate about environmental justice and sustainability
- Researchers aiming to work on global policy reports
Conclusion
The UNODC Wildlife Crime Research Intern Recruitment 2026 is a rare and prestigious opportunity to work at the heart of global environmental crime research. While unpaid, the experience, exposure, and professional growth offered by this internship are invaluable.
If you have strong research skills, a passion for wildlife conservation, and a dream to work with the United Nations, this internship can be a powerful stepping stone in your international career.
