Overview of the Internship Opportunity
The International Seabed Authority (ISA) is inviting applications for its Marine Deep-Sea Research Internship hosted within the Office of Stewardship, Environment and Resources (OSER). This internship is designed for motivated students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals who are eager to gain practical experience in marine scientific research while contributing to global efforts under the United Nations framework. The position is classified at Internship, I-1 level and is based in Kingston, Jamaica, with the option to work remotely or on-site at ISA Headquarters.
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Duty Station, Duration, and Start Date
The internship can be undertaken either remotely or physically at the ISA Headquarters in Kingston. It has a minimum duration of three months and is expected to begin in February 2026, subject to mutual agreement between the selected candidate and ISA. Flexibility in start and end dates allows interns to align the opportunity with academic or early-career commitments.
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Background and Institutional Context
The ISA is an autonomous international organization established under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Its mandate includes regulating mineral-related activities in the international seabed area and promoting marine scientific research for the benefit of humankind. In line with this mandate, ISA adopted an Action Plan on Marine Scientific Research in 2020 to support the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. This Action Plan outlines a deep-sea research agenda built around six strategic research priorities that guide ISA’s work in the coming years.
Objectives of the Internship
The Marine Deep-Sea Research Internship aims to provide interns with hands-on exposure to the implementation of the global deep-sea research agenda. It seeks to strengthen technical and scientific skills while building capacity in deep-sea research and management. Another key objective is enabling interns to identify emerging scientific themes and research gaps that can expand and enrich the Marine Scientific Research Action Plan.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Under the supervision of the Programme Coordinator for Marine Scientific Research, interns will collaborate with officers across the ISA Secretariat. Responsibilities include compiling and analyzing data related to ISA’s mandate, preparing figures and graphs, and supporting marine scientific research and capacity-development initiatives. Interns will also contribute to mapping, analysis, and research on priority topics under the MSR Action Plan and may assist in preparing reviews of major deep-sea scientific discoveries from the past decade. Women’s empowerment initiatives within marine science are also an important area of support.
Required Qualifications and Skills
Applicants must be recent graduates or early-career professionals in environmental studies, marine biology, oceanography, geology, geochemistry, data science, GIS, or related disciplines. A strong interest in deep-sea science, sustainability, and international cooperation is essential. Required skills include proficiency in Microsoft Office and database tools, familiarity with research methods such as data synthesis and literature reviews, strong analytical and organizational abilities, and excellent communication skills. Candidates should be able to work independently and collaboratively in a multicultural environment.
Languages and Competencies
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is a working language of the ISA Secretariat. Knowledge of French or another official UN language is considered an advantage. Core competencies emphasized include communication, professionalism, teamwork, and technological awareness, all of which are essential for effective performance within a United Nations setting.
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Application and Selection Process
Candidates are assessed based on their Personal History Profile (PHP) and a complete online application, including a detailed cover note. The cover note must clearly state academic background, graduation date, IT skills, and motivation for applying. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses.
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Why This Internship Matters
This internship offers a rare opportunity to work within a UN body at the forefront of deep-sea governance and scientific research. It provides valuable international exposure, strengthens professional skills, and allows interns to contribute meaningfully to sustainable ocean management and global scientific collaboration.
