Research Intern @International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD)

The International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) has officially announced a new internship opportunity within its Research Unit, offering students and recent graduates a valuable chance to gain hands-on experience in international migration research and policy development. The internship, based in Vienna, Austria, is scheduled to commence on 1 July 2026 and will run for a period of three months.

Applications for the position are currently open, with interested candidates required to submit their applications by 17 June 2026.

International Organisation Invests in Future Migration Experts

As an international organisation with 21 Member States and operations spanning more than 90 countries worldwide, ICMPD continues to invest in the development of future migration professionals. The organisation works across key regions, including Africa, Eastern Europe, Central Asia, the Mediterranean, the Western Balkans, Türkiye, and the Silk Routes, promoting effective migration governance through policy, research, dialogue, and capacity-building initiatives.

The internship programme reflects ICMPD’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent and equipping young professionals with practical experience in migration studies and international development.

Research Internship Focuses on Migration Decision-Making

According to ICMPD, the Research Internship is designed to provide participants with first-hand exposure to international comparative migration research with a strong policy focus and academic foundation.

Interns will actively contribute to ongoing research projects examining migration decision-making processes and the role of information in influencing migration choices. Through direct engagement with researchers and project managers, participants will strengthen their analytical, research, and policy-writing skills.

The internship is particularly suitable for individuals interested in migration studies, international relations, development studies, economics, and other related social science disciplines.

Key Research Projects in Pakistan and Iraq

The selected intern will support two major research initiatives currently being implemented by ICMPD:

• PARIM-III – Awareness Raising and Information Campaigns on the Risks of Irregular Migration in Pakistan.
• MIRAMI-II – Migration Information and Awareness Raising on the Risks of Irregular Migration in Iraq.

Both projects seek to understand the factors influencing migration decisions among potential migrants and returnees while promoting awareness of safe and legal migration pathways.

Researchers involved in the projects are examining:

• Migration motivations and aspirations.
• Push and pull factors influencing mobility decisions.
• Information needs of migrants and returnees.
• Migrant smuggling routes and emerging trends.
• The effectiveness of awareness-raising campaigns.
• Challenges associated with irregular migration.

The findings will contribute to evidence-based migration policies and support the development of targeted information campaigns in Pakistan and Iraq.

Internship Responsibilities

The successful candidate will work closely with project managers and the Head of Research while undertaking a variety of research-related tasks.

Key responsibilities include:

• Conducting literature reviews on migration-related topics.
• Supporting data collection and analysis activities.
• Researching migration decision-making trends and patterns.
• Mapping stakeholders and relevant institutions in Pakistan and Iraq.
• Assisting interdisciplinary research projects.
• Contributing to reports, policy documents, and research outputs.
• Providing administrative and analytical support to the research team.

The internship aims to help participants develop practical research skills while gaining exposure to international migration policy development processes.

Skills and Experience Required

ICMPD is seeking motivated and academically strong candidates who demonstrate a genuine interest in migration studies and international affairs.

Applicants should possess:

• A recently completed degree or current enrolment in a Master’s programme in social sciences, migration studies, economics, development studies, international relations, or a related field.
• Excellent written and spoken English language skills.
• Strong analytical and organisational abilities.
• Good drafting and report-writing skills.
• Basic knowledge of qualitative research methodologies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Excel.
• Understanding of migration-related theories and concepts.

Knowledge of migration trends and issues in South and West Asia will be considered an advantage.

Professional Development Opportunities

The internship offers participants a unique opportunity to enhance their professional capabilities while working in a multicultural and international environment.

Interns will benefit from:

• Exposure to international migration research projects.
• Networking opportunities with migration experts and researchers.
• Experience working within a leading international organisation.
• Development of independent research and analytical skills.
• Insight into project implementation and policy development processes.

Internship Benefits and Compensation

ICMPD will provide a monthly stipend of EUR 500 for the duration of the internship. In addition, accident insurance coverage will be provided throughout the placement period.

However, candidates should note that:

• Travel expenses will not be reimbursed.
• Health insurance remains the responsibility of the intern.
• The internship does not guarantee future employment with ICMPD.
• Non-Austrian citizens are responsible for obtaining the necessary visas and complying with local registration requirements.

Application Process

Interested candidates are required to submit the following documents in English:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Motivation Letter.

Applications should be sent via email before midnight Central European Time (CET) on 17 June 2026.

Due to the anticipated high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

ICMPD has also reminded applicants that it does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process and encourages candidates to apply only through official ICMPD communication channels.

Growing Demand for Migration Research Professionals

The announcement comes at a time when migration research and policy expertise are becoming increasingly important worldwide. Through initiatives such as this internship programme, ICMPD continues to play a significant role in developing the next generation of migration specialists capable of addressing complex global mobility challenges through evidence-based research and informed policymaking.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.

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