Intern (SD1-SD1-TRA) 2601-020

Sectors Department 1 (SD1)

Transport Sector Office (SD1-TRA)

1. Internship Topic

Developing AI Agent for Transport Development

2. Summary of Job Description

SD1-TRA is looking for an intern to help develop an AI based agent for transport operations by conducting research, supporting analysis, and preparing key knowledge products.

The intern will

• Be responsible for contributing to the development of an AI based agent designed to support and improve various aspects of our transport operations.
• Be involved in exploring how artificial intelligence can be applied across specific thematic areas—such as enhancing road safety, improving road asset management practices, and strengthening multimodal or subregional transport connectivity.
• Carry out a range of analytical and preparatory tasks, including conducting literature reviews on existing technologies and relevant transport sector practices, examining global trends, and identifying potential applications of AI in the transport domain.
• Help define and develop the appropriate output formats for the project, which may take the form of technical reports, presentations, briefing notes, or similar knowledge products.
• Support for preparing draft Terms of Reference (TOR) that could guide more detailed and extensive work in the future. This will ensure that the initial findings and concept development can be translated into actionable next steps for future phases of the project.

3. Period of Assignment

Duration: 11 weeks

Timing: June 2026 onward

4. Location

ADB Headquarters, Manila, Philippines

5. Expected Outcomes

• an initial concept or prototype of an AI based tool that can support the Transport team's analytical and operational needs
• outline on the potential next steps with a clear future work plan
• draft of a Terms of Reference (TOR) that defines the objectives, tasks, methodologies, timeline, and resources needed for a more comprehensive phase of work

6. Education Requirements

Currently enrolled in a master's degree or PhD program in a field relevant to transport, technology, or development. Preferred fields of study are Transportation Engineering or Transport Planning, Civil Engineering, Data Science, Computer Science, or Artificial Intelligence, Urban and Regional Planning, Public Policy, Economics, or Development Studies and other related disciplines with coursework or demonstrated interest in transport systems, digital innovation, or AI applications

7. Relevant Experience and Other Requirements

• Strong analytical skills
• Familiarity with research methods
• Interest in applying emerging technologies—particularly AI—to transport sector challenges.
• Preferably with 2-3 years relevant professional experience.
• Proficiency in oral and written communication skills in English