About the opportunity
The United Nations University Institute in Macau (UNU Macau) is offering a remote research internship focusing on neuroscience, learning, and AI in higher education. Under the supervision of the Institute Director, the intern will contribute to ongoing research for a forthcoming Springer publication on AI and higher education, as well as related policy briefs, research papers, journal articles, and knowledge products. The internship provides an opportunity to gain experience in policy-oriented social science research within a UN research environment, strengthen research and academic writing skills, and learn how to work in a multi-cultural setting. The duration of the contract is 2 months, anticipated from October 5 to December 4, 2026.
Salary and benefits
- Experience in policy-oriented social science research within a UN research environment
- Opportunity to contribute to a forthcoming Springer publication on AI and higher education
- Strengthening of research, analytical, and academic writing skills
- Development of the ability to translate research findings into policy-relevant outputs
- Experience working in a multicultural international environment
Who can apply?
- Holder of a Master’s degree or above in neuroscience, education, learning sciences, psychology, AI, social sciences, or a related field
- Strong research, analytical, and academic writing skills
- Demonstrated ability to conduct literature reviews and synthesize academic research
- Strong interest in the intersection of neuroscience, learning, AI, and higher education
- Ability to work independently and effectively in a remote environment
- Excellent written and spoken English proficiency
Required documents
- Brief cover letter in English stating interest in and qualifications for the post
- Current and complete CV in English
- Examples of relevant research work in English
- Document(s) confirming education status (e.g., transcript or proof of enrollment), required prior to interview
- Proof of health and life/accident insurance valid for the duration and location of the internship, required prior to interview
When to apply
- Application deadline: September 18, 2026, at 11:59 PM (Macau time zone GMT +8)
- Anticipated internship duration: October 5 to December 4, 2026
- Expected start date: October 5, 2026
How to apply
- Submit the online application via the career portal containing a brief cover letter, current and complete CV, and examples of relevant research work.
- Complete the application form fields including educational background and motivation statement.
- If invited for an interview, submit documents confirming education status and proof of health and life/accident insurance prior to the interview.
Additional information
- This is a remote internship position. UNU does not sponsor a working visa for this position.
- The stipend listed is N/A.
- The purpose of the internship programme is to complement studies and does not lead to automatic further employment with UNU.
- Interns do not hold international civil servant status and are not considered staff members under United Nations Staff Rules and Regulations.
- UNU does not charge any application, processing, training, interviewing, testing, or other fees in connection with the recruitment process.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Holders of a Master's degree or higher in neuroscience, AI, learning sciences, or psychology.
- Researchers with a strong track record in literature reviews and synthesizing academic research.
- Individuals interested in the intersection of higher education, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence.
What should you think carefully about?
- The internship is unpaid (stipend listed as N/A) and requires the applicant to arrange and pay for their own health and life insurance.
- The contract is very short (2 months), providing only a temporary research experience rather than long-term employment.
- The applicant must be able to work independently in a remote setting across different time zones.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This is an ideal opportunity for someone looking to gain a high-profile credit on a forthcoming Springer publication and experience the inner workings of a UN research environment. It is a great way to build academic writing skills and learn how to translate complex neuroscience and AI research into policy-relevant outputs.
Our take
Highly recommended for graduate students or recent Master's holders in neuroscience or AI who want a remote, short-term prestige project to boost their academic CV.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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