United Nations University International Institute for Global Health (UNU-IIGH)

Program Type

International (Malaysia-based)

Organization Name

United Nations University – International Institute for Global Health (UNU-IIGH)

Internship Location

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Organization

The United Nations University International Institute for Global Health (UNU-IIGH) serves as the UN’s designated think tank for global health. Established in 2005, the institute works to translate research evidence into policy and action by connecting UN member states, academic institutions, UN agencies, and civil society partners.

UNU-IIGH focuses on addressing global health inequalities through policy-relevant research, program assessment, and capacity strengthening. The institute emphasizes evidence-to-policy translation, gender and intersectionality perspectives, and support for decision-makers at global, regional, and country levels. Its work aligns closely with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and broader UN priorities.

Position Overview

The UNU-IIGH Research and Policy Internship is a flexible, research-focused opportunity designed to support the institute’s ongoing and emerging global health projects. Interns are matched with supervisors and work packages based on academic background, interests, learning objectives, and institutional needs.

The internship emphasizes collaboration, professional development, and meaningful contribution to research, policy analysis, and knowledge translation at the intersection of global health research and practice.

Project Details

Interns may contribute to institute-wide research and policy initiatives aligned with UNU-IIGH’s strategic priorities. Project assignments may evolve during the internship based on policy needs and program timelines.

Potential project areas include:
• Health systems strengthening, equity, and governance
• Policy-relevant research and evidence synthesis for global and regional stakeholders
• Climate change and health
• Gender equity and intersectionality
• Digital health governance
• Accountability in global health

Interns may also support:
• Knowledge translation activities such as reports, policy briefs, presentations, and background notes
• Preparation for workshops, dialogues, or consultations with governments, UN agencies, and civil society
• Cross-work-package collaboration across thematic areas

Intern Responsibilities

Interns will:
• Conduct literature reviews and synthesize research findings
• Assist with data collection, analysis, and research inputs
• Draft sections of reports, policy briefs, presentations, or briefing materials
• Support preparation of meetings, workshops, and stakeholder communications
• Participate in team meetings and collaborative project work
• Organize project documentation and knowledge products

Qualifications

Essential:
• Current student in public health, global health, international development, social sciences, or a related field
• Strong research, writing, and analytical skills
• Ability to summarize complex material clearly and concisely
• Interest in global health equity and policy

Preferred:
• Coursework or experience in global health, health systems, or policy analysis
• Familiarity with evidence synthesis and basic data interpretation
• Experience related to climate and health, gender equity, digital health, or global governance
• Exposure to policy writing or international work environments

Learning Outcomes

• Gain hands-on experience in global health research and policy translation
• Develop skills in literature review, research synthesis, and policy analysis
• Build experience drafting policy-relevant knowledge products
• Deepen understanding of global health governance and UN processes
• Strengthen collaboration skills within multidisciplinary and international teams
• Expand professional networks within the UN system

Nature of Internship

Global Health Research and Policy

Keywords

Climate Change; Data Analysis; Health Equity; Health Systems Strengthening; Health Policy; Literature Review; Mental Health; Nutrition

Additional Onboarding for Selected Intern(s)

• Completion of UNU administrative onboarding procedures
• Compliance with institutional policies, ethics, and data protection requirements
• Completion of any required training related to assigned work packages

Work Environment

Hybrid
• 4 days per week in-office in Kuala Lumpur
• Option to work remotely on Fridays
• Collaborative, research- and policy-oriented UN work environment