Deadline: September 30, 2025
Applications are open for the UNU-WIDER Master Student Assignment Programme 2026. Under the direct supervision of the Research unit focal point and the overall supervision of the Head of Research, the Master Student will collaborate closely with the Research unit to conduct research work related to one of the following topic(s):
- Tax Research for Development is a project at UNU-WIDER, which focuses on analysing administrative tax data in four African countries. Topic: Gender distribution in tax filing and using UGAMOD-TAX for simulating some reform on PAYE or presumptive tax policies through a gender lens.
- Building Trust and Institutions for Peace is project at UNU-WIDER, which focuses on advancing knowledge on (re)building bureaucratic institutions and the social contract to sustain peace and foster inclusive statebuilding in post-conflict countries. Topic: The study can focus on how FDI shapes patterns of poverty reduction, inequality, and state capacity, or investigate the relationship between large-scale investment projects and conflict risks. A particular emphasis may be placed on the role of FDI in supporting peacebuilding, resilience, and post-conflict reconstruction. The research will apply a quantitative design, making use of datasets on FDI, conflict events, and development indicators.
Stipend
- Master Students will receive a stipend of EUR 715 per month from UNU to partially subsidize their basic living costs for the duration of the visit. The stipend will be paid on a monthly basis with confirmation of satisfactory performance. Any unjustified absences during the visiting period will be deducted from the monthly stipend at the daily rate accordingly.
Eligibility
- Be enrolled in a Master’s degree programme in Economics and currently in the second year of study in Finland; OR be enrolled in, or have completed, the Development Economics Master’s level course in Finland.
- Excellent communication skills (written and oral) in English are required.
- Working knowledge of another UN language is an advantage.
The Master Student is expected to have:
- A keen interest in the work of the United Nations and/or international development.
- The ability to work in a multi-cultural environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.
- Working knowledge and experience in using Stata or R and MS Office.
- Experience in data-related tasks is an asset, including searching for data sources, cleaning, merging and preparing data, producing publication-quality figures.
Application
- Attach a brief Cover Letter (in English) stating interest
- Attach a current and complete CV in English
- Document(s) confirming your education status (e.g. transcript or proof of enrolment)
- Answer a few questions that are tailored to the programme
For more information, visit UNU-WIDER.
