Position: Generative AI Research Intern Organization: UNDP – United Nations Development Programme Location: Remote / Home-Based
About the Opportunity:
Are you passionate about leveraging cutting-edge Generative AI, Natural Language Processing (NLP), and Large Language Models (LLMs) to address critical global development challenges? The UNDP’s SDG AI Lab, hosted under the Istanbul International Center for Private Sector in Development (ICPSD), offers an exceptional research internship opportunity for graduate-level students or recent graduates in fields like Computer Science, Statistics, Econometrics, Mathematics, or Economics. This home-based, remote internship allows you to contribute directly to applied research and policy advisory services, supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
About UNDP:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, playing a pivotal role as the UN’s development agency. We are committed to eradicating poverty, reducing inequalities, building resilience, and supporting countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). At UNDP, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are core principles, fostering an inclusive environment where all personnel are empowered to contribute. We strongly encourage applications from marginalized or excluded populations. UNDP maintains a zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, and discrimination, ensuring rigorous background checks for all selected candidates.
About the SDG AI Lab & ICPSD:
The SDG AI Lab is a joint initiative of UNDP BPPS teams, providing research, development, and advisory support using Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for sustainable development. Hosted by UNDP ICPSD, a center of excellence for private sector engagement in development, the lab strengthens digital transformation capacities internally and for partners. ICPSD mobilizes the private sector for development, facilitating knowledge sharing, catalyzing SDG implementation, and raising capital through innovative financing models.
Key Responsibilities: As a Generative AI Research Intern, your duties will include:
- Conducting in-depth research on the application of Generative AI, including NLP and LLMs, to solve global development challenges such as poverty, inequality, and digital inclusion.
- Drafting clear and accessible analytical briefs on project findings, Generative AI use cases, and methodologies for public and stakeholder consumption.
- Supporting the development and implementation of Generative AI, Natural Language Processing (NLP), and Large Language Models (LLMs) solutions for economic and international development issues.
- Assisting with Power Automate implementation to integrate prompt workflows with Microsoft tools (Outlook, SharePoint, Teams).
- Providing support to the Technical Specialist, including participation in meetings, administrative tasks, and drafting minutes.
- Other relevant tasks as required by the supervisor.
Education & Experience Requirements:
Education:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria at the time of application and internship start:
- Enrolled in a second university degree program (Master’s Degree).
- Enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree program (Bachelor’s Degree).
- Graduated with a university degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Statistics, Econometrics, Mathematics, Economics, or a similar field, and able to start the internship within one year of graduation.
Experience:
- Proven experience in implementing machine learning models using frameworks like Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, and PyTorch.
- Demonstrated experience in implementing Natural Language Processing (NLP) projects leveraging libraries and models including NLTK, SpaCy, BERT, RoBERTa, and GPT-4.
- Proficiency in Prompt Engineering, with hands-on experience in designing, testing, and refining prompts for large language model (LLM) applications.
- Familiarity with a range of open and closed-source LLMs, including OpenAI, Gemini, LLaMA, and other foundation models.
- Previous exposure to LLMs using chaining frameworks such as LangChain, LlamaIndex, and ChromaDB.
- Knowledge of evaluation frameworks for assessing performance, bias, and robustness of generative AI systems.
- Strong spoken and written English communication skills are essential.
- Knowledge of another UN language is an asset.
Technical/Functional Competencies:
- Excellent IT and programming skills.
- Strong research, writing, and analytical skills, with a proven ability to interpret and communicate complex data.
- Strong analytical aptitude and communication skills.
- Ability to manage workload independently and collaborate effectively with colleagues while meeting deadlines.
- Excellent interpersonal skills: strong listening, collaboration, pro-activeness, and initiative.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Other Competencies & Attitude:
- Commitment to UNDP’s mission, vision, and values.
- Sensitivity to cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality, and age differences.
- Highest standards of integrity, discretion, and loyalty.
Financial Information:
Interns receive a stipend according to UNDP Internship Policies, provided they are not financially supported by another institution. The monthly stipend amount is determined by the duty station’s rates. Part-time internships are prorated.
Application Procedure:
Please combine the following into a single PDF document for upload:
- A brief Cover Letter (in English) outlining your interest and qualifications.
- Your current and complete CV in English.
Selected candidates must also submit:
- Official document(s) confirming education status.
- Proof of medical and life/accident insurance valid for the internship location.
Important Notes:
UNDP internships are a minimum of 6 weeks and a maximum of 6 months. Interns are responsible for their own visa arrangements and associated costs. Internships do not guarantee subsequent employment with UNDP. UNDP is committed to workforce diversity and encourages applications from individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups, and persons with disabilities. All applications are treated with the strictest confidence.
Disclaimer:
UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation, misconduct, harassment, and abuse of authority. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks. The United Nations does not charge any fees for application or recruitment. Be wary of scam solicitations.
