UNICEF in Vientiane, Lao PDR is currently seeking an International Nutrition Intern to support the implementation of the Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation (MMS) program. This full-time internship will run for three months, starting as soon as possible, and will be based at the UNICEF Country Office in Vientiane.
This opportunity is ideal for early-career professionals who are passionate about nutrition, public health, and development, and who want hands-on experience contributing to evidence-based interventions that improve maternal and child health.
Key Responsibilities and Learning Areas
Under the direct supervision of the Nutrition Specialist, the intern will play an active role in supporting the design, coordination, and rollout of the MMS study in Lao PDR. Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting research on global MMS studies, including acceptability and adherence, and synthesizing findings to inform the Lao PDR context
- Drafting a study protocol for the MMS study in two selected districts
- Coordinating with the Ministry of Health (MoH) and development partners to plan and implement the study
- Supporting the ethical review process, including preparation and submission of IRB documentation
- Developing training curricula in collaboration with MoH, partners, and health centers
- Supporting logistics for the distribution of study supplies, including MMS and IFA tablets, data collection tools, and training materials
- Facilitating training sessions for health care workers and conducting follow-up visits to ensure quality data collection
- Participating in approximately 12 days of field visits across two districts to support training and monitoring activities
Expected Results and Outputs
By the end of the internship, the intern is expected to contribute to:
- Preparation and submission of the IRB proposal
- Development and rollout of training materials, guidelines, and IEC resources for MMS
- Initiation of the MMS rollout study
- Effective coordination between UNICEF, the Ministry of Health, and development partners
- Drafting MMS expansion plans for targeted provinces
Education and Experience Requirements
Applicants should meet the following criteria:
- A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as nutrition science, public policy, global health, global development, or political science
- Proficiency in at least one UNICEF working language, particularly English
- Experience in the development sector, preferably related to nutrition interventions
- Strong academic performance, demonstrated through recent academic records
- Proficiency in Microsoft tools such as Word, PowerPoint, and Teams
- Excellent research, analytical, and writing skills