Data Science Intern – Investigations Section - Regional Investigations (RBLAC & HQ) and Investigations Support Team (IST), (three internship posts)

Background

The Investigations Section of the Office of Audit and Investigations (OAI) is seeking to recruit three
(3) interns for its Unit 1, Regional Investigations (HQ & LAC) and Investigations Support Team Unit (IST) for six
months, beginning around 22 June 2026.
OAI is responsible for conducting investigations into allegations of misconduct, such as fraud,
corruption, retaliation on whistleblowers, workplace harassment, including sexual harassment,
abuse of authority, violation or willful disregard of UNDP regulations, rules, and administrative
instructions, which involve UNDP staff and other personnel. OAI also investigates allegations of fraud and
other financial irregularities committed by contractors, implementing partners, and other third
parties deemed detrimental to UNDP. Unit 1 provides support services in the areas of AI, Data Science,
and IT Forensic Services, and Data Analytics.
OAI conducts investigations in accordance with the UNDP Legal Framework for Addressing
Non-Compliance with UN Standards of Conduct and the OAI Investigation Guidelines.
This vacancy is a call for an internship for the FY 2026. OAI will select the top three (3) applicants for
this internship beginning around 22 June 2026.
 

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are core principles at UNDP:  we value diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate, we foster inclusion as a way of ensuring all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, and we ensure equity and fairness in all our actions. Taking a ‘leave no one behind’ approach to our diversity efforts means increasing representation of underserved populations. People who identify as belonging to marginalized or excluded populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Learn more about working at UNDP including our values and inspiring stories.
  UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks.
  Duties and Responsibilities
 The interns will contribute to the development of functional applications that demonstrates the 
potential of leveraging technology and data-driven approaches, such as artificial intelligence (AI), 
machine learning (ML), or process automation to support and enhance internal audit and investigation 
functions. This may include augmenting existing OAI tools through advanced data analytics or 
streamlining manual processes through automation.

In support of this overarching goal, the intern may:

• Assist in evaluating the applicability of advanced data analytics, machine learning, AI, and
process automation technologies to expand the scope and effectiveness of fraud
investigations;
• Contribute to the design and development of new prototypes that demonstrate innovative
applications of data analytics, machine learning, AI, or automation within the context of
fraud detection, investigative analysis, and audit processes;
• Support the refinement and enhancement of existing tools and prototypes, enabling
investigation personnel to more effectively integrate them into their workflows;
• Participate in efforts to improve the overall efficiency, accuracy, and impact of investigative
assignments through the application of data-driven solutions;
• Document findings, prototype functionalities, and use cases to ensure knowledge sharing
and replicability within the team.
•Support the refinement and enhancement of existing data analytics and financial forensics
tools and prototypes, enabling investigation personnel to more effectively integrate them
into their workflows.

 Competencies
Demonstrates integrity. 
• Demonstrates the ability to remain objective, neutral, and independent. 
• Displays cultural sensitivity. 
• Produces timely, quality outputs. 
• Exercises sound judgment/analysis. 
• Ability to manage multiple tasks. 
• Writes clearly and effectively, and, 
• Speaks clearly and convincingly.
  Required Skills and Experience
 Education:   Applicants must, at the time of the application, meet one of the following requirements:

• Be enrolled in a postgraduate degree programme (such as a master’s programme or higher)
in Data Science, Computer Science, Finance, or other relevant applied science, with
preference for specializatio