Circular Economy Research Internship (United Nations Project)

About Circular Innovation Lab

Circular Innovation Lab is a Danish think tank accelerating the global transition to a circular economy. Founded by former experts from the United Nations and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, we design strategic, interdisciplinary solutions that help governments, businesses, and cities shift towards circularity.

Our expertise includes:

• National Circular Economy Roadmaps

• Plastics, textiles, agriculture, cement & electronics

• Policy & regulatory analysis

• Material efficiency & climate–circularity strategies

• Consulting, training, research, and technical assistance

Learn more: www.circularinnovationlab.com

About the Internship

This internship offers a rare opportunity to contribute directly to a United Nations-affiliated circular economy project, while gaining global experience in sustainability research, policy analysis, and thought leadership.

You will work alongside experts with UN and international think-tank backgrounds and contribute to meaningful, high-impact sustainability work.

As a Circular Economy Research Intern, your responsibilities may include:

• Contributing research and analysis to a United Nations Circular Economy Project

• Drafting insight articles, policy content, and thought-leadership pieces

• Supporting research for white papers and publications on Circular Press

• Publishing your work under your name on our website and social channels

• Assisting with international circular economy projects across sectors

• Supporting preparations for the World Circular Economy Forum 2026 (India) More info: https://www.circularinnovationlab.com/events

• Collaborating with a diverse, global team of sustainability professionals

  
  

Work Style & Commitment

This is a full-time internship, however we understand that some applicants may be pursuing academic studies. For strong candidates, we are open to exploring a flexible collaboration structure that allows you to balance your studies while still making a meaningful contribution to our projects.

We are looking for individuals who are:

• Self-driven, proactive, and able to take ownership of their work

• Highly motivated and enthusiastic about learning and contributing

• Comfortable working in an environment with minimal micromanagement

• Skilled at managing their time independently and meeting deadlines

• Deeply passionate about the circular economy and sustainability

Our team operates with trust, autonomy, and responsibility. This internship is best suited for individuals who thrive when given freedom, accountability, and room to grow.

Essential Requirements

• Strong written and spoken English

• Genuine and sustained interest in the circular economy and global sustainability

• Ability to track global circular economy trends and developments

• Analytical, detail-oriented, and committed to high-quality research

• Ability to commit to the full 6-month internship starting January 2026

  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in sustainability, environmental studies, economics, public policy, or related fields

• Experience in research, writing, or academic work

• Ability to work independently and deliver on deadlines

• 1–2 writing samples (mandatory for consideration)

Only applicants who meet the essential criteria will be considered.

Why Join Us?

Even though the internship is unpaid, we ensure a highly rewarding and career-strengthening experience:

Professional Benefits

• Direct involvement in a United Nations Circular Economy Project

• Build a strong portfolio of published work under your name

• Gain exposure to global sustainability networks and stakeholders

• Work alongside experts from the UN and Ellen MacArthur Foundation

• Experience diverse, cross-sector challenges with real-world impact

• Join a multicultural team (Indian, Spanish, Chilean, Danish, Portuguese)

  
  

Career Trajectory

Our interns have gone on to roles in:

• UN agencies

• European think tanks

• Sustainability consulting firms

• International NGOs

• Governmental and academic institutions

  
  

Practical Details

• Start Date: January 2026

• Duration: 6 months

• Location: Remote/Hybrid

• Remuneration: Unpaid

• Application Materials (Required):

  • CV

  • Short motivation letter

  • 1–2 writing samples