Background

In line with UNDP Vietnam’s commitment to sustainable development and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Research Intern will support the Economic Advisor and broader UNDP team in providing technical expertise in economic policy, sustainable development, and climate action for Vietnam. The role involves data analysis, report drafting, and policy research to address Vietnam’s commitments towards net-zero emissions, sustainable energy transition, and poverty reduction.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Research Intern will provide research and analytical support in line with the UNDP’s economic and development priorities in Vietnam, with a focus on sustainable development and inclusive economic growth. Key responsibilities include:

• Research and Analysis: Conduct desk research on Vietnam’s economic policies, SDG progress, climate adaptation, and social protection.
• Data Management: Collect, organize, and analyze economic, social, and environmental data relevant to Vietnam’s policy landscape.
• Policy Support: Assist in drafting policy briefs, background notes, and presentations on topics such as green growth, poverty reduction, and energy transition.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with internal UNDP teams and external partners, including government institutions, academic entities, and NGOs, as required.
• Documentation: Prepare reports, summaries, and meeting notes for the Economic Advisor and other senior UNDP staff as needed.

Deliverables:

• Monthly research reports summarizing findings and analysis on economic and social policy developments in Vietnam.
• Data tables, charts, and visual aids to support the Economic Advisor’s presentations and publications.
• Draft policy briefs and background notes on thematic areas related to SDGs and sustainable development in Vietnam.
• Meeting notes and summaries from key stakeholder consultations.

Competencies

UNDP is seeking candidates with the following personal qualities:

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Familiarity with UNDP’s core principles, including a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multicultural team setting.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills to meet deadlines.

Required Skills and Experience

Applicants to the UNDP internship programme must at the time of application meet one of the following requirements:

(a) Be enrolled in a postgraduate degree programme (such as a master’s programme, or higher);

(b) Be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree programme (such as bachelor’s degree or equivalent);

(c) Have recently graduated with a university degree (as defined in (a) and (b) above) and, if selected, must start the internship within one-year of graduation;

(d) Be enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship program and undertake the internship as part of this program.

Applicants should have the following qualifications and skills:

• Fluency in Vietnamese (required).
• Proficiency in English, with strong written and oral communication skills.

Desired qualification and experience:

• Master’s degree in Economics, Development Studies, Public Policy, or a related field is desirable.
• Experience in data analysis or related methodologies are an asset.
• 01 year of working experience in administrative and/or logistics support is an asset.
• 1-2 years of relevant work experience in economic policy analysis, research, or project support, ideally in development contexts.
• Familiarity with Vietnam and the activities of international organizations, government agencies, or academic institutions is an advantage.