Applications are now open for the WHO Medical Countermeasures Internship Programme 2026. The World Health Organization is offering a prestigious 24-week paid internship in its Department of Epidemic and Pandemic Management (Medical Countermeasures Unit) at the WHO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
Opportunity Summary
| Opportunity Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | World Health Organization (WHO) |
| Programme / Job Title | WHO Medical Countermeasures Internship 2026 |
| Type | Paid International Internship |
| Host Country | Switzerland (Geneva) |
| Duration | 24 Weeks (5 Oct 2026 – 19 Mar 2027) |
| Application Deadline | Not specified – Apply Early |
About the WHO Medical Countermeasures Internship
The World Health Organization’s Medical Countermeasures Unit sits at the centre of global efforts to prepare for and respond to epidemics and pandemics. Interns will support real technical work that informs WHO policy, including literature reviews, data analysis, report writing, and coordination of medical countermeasures such as vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics. This paid internship offers direct exposure to high-level international public health operations and the chance to contribute meaningfully to global health security.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct literature reviews on vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics
- Collect and analyse scientific data related to medical countermeasures
- Assist in preparing technical reports, policy briefs, and background documents
- Support workshops, conferences, and international meetings
- Contribute to projects on epidemic and pandemic preparedness
- Provide operational and administrative support to the team
WHO Medical Countermeasures Internship Requirements
- Open to nationals of all countries worldwide
- Must have completed at least three years of undergraduate studies
- Currently enrolled in a university degree programme or graduated within the last 18 months
- Relevant fields: Medicine, Public Health, Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Virology, Bioinformatics, Statistics, Information Sciences, or Medical Sciences
- Strong English language skills (French or other UN languages are an advantage)
- Excellent research, analytical, communication, and teamwork skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with statistical software is a plus
Required Documents: Updated CV, Proof of enrolment/recent graduation, Motivation/Cover Letter, Academic transcripts (if requested).
Benefits of the WHO Medical Countermeasures Internship
- Monthly living allowance of CHF 1,680
- Daily lunch vouchers
- Medical and accident insurance coverage
- Hands-on experience in global pandemic preparedness and medical countermeasures
- Direct exposure to WHO’s international health operations and policy development
- International networking with leading public health specialists worldwide
- Strong credential for future careers in global health, NGOs, UN agencies, and research institutions
How to Apply for the WHO Medical Countermeasures Internship
- Visit the official WHO Careers portal using the link below.
- Carefully review the full vacancy and requirements.
- Submit your application with all required documents (CV, motivation letter, proof of enrolment/graduation).
- Apply early as selection is highly competitive.
Only successful candidates will be notified.
