United Nations University
The United Nations University (UNU) is an international community of scholars, engaged in research, postgraduate training and the dissemination of knowledge in furtherance of the purposes and principles of the United Nations, its Peoples and the Member States. The University functions as a think tank for the United Nations system, contributes to capacity building, particularly in developing countries, and serves as a platform for new and innovative ideas and dialogue.
United Nations University Programme for Biotechnology in Latin America and the Caribbean (UNU-BIOLAC)
Located in Caracas, Venezuela, UNU-BIOLAC was established in 1988. UNU-BIOLAC is a capacity development programme in biotechnology which belongs to the UNU system.
The programme’s main goal is to provide tools to facilitate the training and research in biotechnology thus contributing to the economic and social development of the Latin American region. These actions are taken keeping a balance between science, technology, and modern society.
The creation of UNU-BIOLAC was considered as a first step in the establishing of an international institute for the development of biotechnology in Latin America and the Caribbean with headquarters located in Venezuela.
Responsibilities
Under the supervision of the Senior Assistant, the communications intern will support the organisation and logistics at UNU-BIOLAC facilities and will collaborate with the implementation of follow up measures to former participants of academic activities when it will be required.
Assignments may include:
• provide logistical support to upcoming events
• updates for mailing lists and newsletters
• create and curate engaging content
• research topics of interest to UNU-BIOLAC in the field of Biotechnology for Latin America and the Caribbean
• work with academic content and develop related communications pieces for various audiences
• support the development of UNU-BIOLAC’s website and social media channels
• assist with conceptualisation and implementation of engaging campaigns on UNU-BIOLAC research and activities
• assist with building online communities
• assist with monitoring UNU-BIOLAC’s digital media activity
• perform other tasks assigned by the supervisor
• support the continuous development of our evaluator databases
• support development of other databases
• support the development of the institutional online knowledge base
• support other tasks as assigned
Required qualifications & experience
Required qualifications and experience include:
• currently enrolled in a Bachelor’ degree in communications sciences, journalism, international studies, or related fields
• strong interest in the work of the United Nations University in general, and particularly in the Programme for Biotechnology in Latin America and the Caribbean
• proficiency in MS Office applications, particularly with high skills in the use of Excel
• proficiency in social media, digital campaigns, and newsletter tools
• knowledge of database development and content management systems is an asset
• proficiency in English; at least B2 level is mandatory
Required competencies include:
• results-oriented
• quality-orientation
• creativity
• teamwork
• ability to work within tight timelines
Important information
UNU-BIOLAC accepts no responsibility for the medical and life insurance of the intern or costs arising from accidents and illness incurred during an internship. Interns will be requested to show proof of insurance when commencing his/her internship.
The purpose of the internship is not to lead to further employment with UNU-BIOLAC but to complement an intern’s studies. Therefore, there should be no expectation of employment at the end of the internship.
UNU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious, and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities to apply and become part of the organisation.
UNU has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNU, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination.
Duration
The successful candidate shall be based at UNU-BIOLAC in Caracas, Venezuela, on a part-time basis (20 hours per week) for a period of 3-6 months.
