Are you a passionate and talented graduate-level student eager to make a tangible difference in the world? The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) invites you to join the Istanbul International Center for Private Sector in Development (ICPSD) as an AI for Development Intern within the SDG AI Lab. This presents a unique opportunity to apply cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to tackle some of the most pressing global challenges. This AI for Development Internship at UNDP offers a chance to work with the UN’s leading development agency.
At UNDP, we firmly believe in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). We value the rich tapestry of nations and cultures where we operate and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute to our mission. Consequently, our “leave no one behind” approach means we actively seek out and encourage applications from individuals belonging to marginalized or excluded populations. Furthermore, we maintain a zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, and discrimination. Therefore, all selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks.
About the SDG AI Lab: Advancing AI for Development
The SDG AI Lab, a joint initiative of UNDP BPPS teams, ICPSD hosts the SDG AI Lab. We operate at the forefront of leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for sustainable development. Our mission, therefore, is to provide crucial research, development, and advisory support, strengthening UNDP’s internal capacities and those of our partners to meet the increasing demand for digital transformation. This focus directly supports our goal of advancing AI for development.
Your Role: AI for Development Internship Duties at UNDP
As an AI for Development Intern, you’ll play a vital role in our efforts to harness the power of AI for global impact. Your responsibilities will include:
- Conducting groundbreaking research on applying Generative AI, Natural Language Processing (NLP), and Large Language Models (LLMs) to address critical development challenges such as poverty, inequality, and digital inclusion.
- Drafting insightful analytical briefs that translate complex project findings, use cases, and methodologies related to Generative AI into clear, accessible language for both the public and key development stakeholders.
- Supporting the development and implementation of innovative Generative AI, NLP, and LLM solutions specifically tailored to economic and international development issues.
- Assisting with Power Automate implementation to seamlessly connect prompt workflows with essential Microsoft tools including Outlook, SharePoint, and Teams, thereby enhancing our operational efficiency.
- Providing essential support to the Technical Specialist, which may involve participating in meetings and conferences, offering administrative assistance, drafting meeting minutes, and undertaking other crucial functions as needed.
- Contributing to other relevant tasks as your supervisor deems necessary for this AI for Development Internship UNDP role.
What We’re Looking For: Ideal Candidates for the AI for Development Internship
Education Requirements for this UNDP Internship
At the time of application and internship commencement, you must meet one of the following criteria for this AI for Development Internship UNDP:
- Be currently enrolled in a second university degree program (Master’s Degree); or
- Be in the final academic year of a first university degree program (Bachelor’s Degree); or
- You must have graduated with a university degree in fields such as Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Statistics, Econometrics, Mathematics, Economics, or similar, and if selected, you must commence the internship within one year of graduation.
Experience Relevant to AI for Development
We are actively seeking candidates with demonstrable experience in:
- Implementing machine learning models using frameworks such as Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, and PyTorch.
- Executing 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 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.
- Knowledgeable in evaluation frameworks for assessing the performance, bias, and robustness of generative AI systems.
- Previous exposure to Power BI, Power Automate, and other MS Power platforms or a keen interest in workflow automation and Microsoft 365 integration is a distinct advantage.
Language Skills for this UNDP AI Internship
- Strong spoken and written English is required.
- Knowledge of another UN language is an asset.
Competencies and Attitude for a UNDP Intern
Technical/Functional Skills for the AI for Development Role
- Excellent IT and programming skills.
- Strong research, writing, and analytical skills, with a proven ability to interpret and clearly communicate complex data.
- Strong analytical aptitude and strong communication skills.
- You can manage your workload with minimum supervision and collaborate effectively with a diverse range of colleagues while consistently meeting deadlines.
Other Qualities for a Successful AI for Development Internship
- Excellent interpersonal skills, including active listening and collaborative engagement with a wide range of individuals, coupled with the ability to work independently, be proactive, and take initiative.
- You can work both independently and as part of a team.
- 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.
Important Information About Your AI for Development Internship
Financial Matters for Your AI for Development Internship
Interns may receive a stipend according to UNDP Internship Policies, provided no institution or program (such as a university, government, foundation, or scholarship program) financially supports them. The OHR Policy and Compensation Unit determines the monthly stipend amount yearly for each duty station, and we pay it monthly. Part-time arrangements are prorated accordingly.
Application Procedure for this UNDP Internship
Please submit your application by combining all documents into one single PDF document. Your application should include:
- A brief Cover Letter (in English) outlining your interest in and qualifications for this position.
- Your current and complete CV in English.
If selected, you will need to submit:
- Official document(s) confirming your education status.
- Proof of medical and life/accident insurance valid for the internship location. Medical insurance is mandatory.
UNDP internships last a minimum of 6 weeks and a maximum of 6 months. Please note that interns are responsible for arranging their own visas well in advance. Interns are not staff members and may not represent UNDP in any official capacity.
Subsequent Employment after an AI for Development Internship
The Internship Programme is designed to complement your studies and does not guarantee future employment with UNDP. Therefore, you should have no expectation of employment at the end of an internship. More information is available at: http://www.undp.org/internships/.
Our Commitment to Non-Discrimination
UNDP is an equal opportunity and inclusive employer. We do not discriminate based on race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin, or other status. Thus, we actively encourage individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups, and persons with disabilities to apply. We treat all applications with the strictest confidence.
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APPLY NOW for this AI for Development Internship UNDP opportunity and be part of a team that’s driving positive change through innovation! https://estm.fa.em2.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1/job/26682
