Background
The Africa Research and Impact Network (ARIN) is a leading Pan-African talent incubator committed to discovering, nurturing, and accelerating African potential in research, innovation, and policy influence. ARIN is bridging this gap, where the continent is facing complex climate, environmental, and development challenges, and hence needs a new generation of young professionals equipped with practical skills, analytical competence, and global exposure. Recognising that many African graduates struggle to access meaningful professional experience, ARIN established a dynamic internship program designed to provide a springboard into high-impact careers. The program offers structured mentorship, hands-on training, and direct involvement in real-world projects spanning climate change adaptation, biodiversity conservation, health, policy analysis, data science, AI for resilience, and community-centred research across Africa. Over the past three years, ARIN has mentored more than 30 interns, providing them with opportunities to work alongside top researchers, practitioners, government partners, and global
institutions. Many alumni of the program have progressed to assume leadership positions within ARIN, while others now serve in national and international organisations, academic institutions, and emerging innovation spaces. The internship program is more than a placement, as it is a launchpad for African excellence, offering young talents the chance to contribute to transformative research and policy initiatives that shape Africa’s development future. Through this program, ARIN continues to build a strong pipeline of emerging African researchers and leaders who are equipped to drive evidence-informed, inclusive, and sustainable change on the continent.
Motto
Nurturing Talents and Leaders to confront the World’s Complex Challenges.
Aim
The internship program aims to provide a valuable learning experience while enabling interns to actively contribute to ARIN’s research and initiatives.
Objectives
- Gain Practical and Hands-on Experience: Interns will engage in real-world research projects, contributing to ARIN’s goals and objectives.
- Enhance Skills and Knowledge: Interns will develop skills in data collection, analysis, report writing, and project management.
- Collaborate with the Team: Interns will work closely with ARIN staff, fostering collaboration and supporting organizational initiatives.
- Gain Exposure to the Field: Interns will acquire insights into addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges in Africa.
- Build a robust network of emerging African talents: Interns will be integrated into a commitment to climate resilience and sustainable development.
Internship Structure
The role requires high organization, a genuine passion for research, and strong interpersonal, leadership, and project management skills. Interns will work on both short-term and long-term projects under ARIN supervision.
Key Responsibilities
- Conducting literature reviews, data analysis, and evidence synthesis on various ARIN projects.
- Supporting fieldwork, community engagements, and stakeholder consultations.
- Engaging in peer learning sessions and technical mentorship activities within ARIN.
- Supporting fieldwork, community engagements, and stakeholder consultations.
- Collaborate with team members in the development of reports, policy briefs, research papers, and presentations.
- Participate in weekly meetings, workshops, and networking events.
- Assist in other duties as assigned.
Key Qualifications and Skills
- Master’s or a strong Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution in Africainthefields of Environmental Science, Climate Change, Natural Resources Management, Economics, Data Science, International Development, or related fields.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Applicants with strong analytical, writing, and communication skills.
- Candidates who demonstrate initiative, curiosity, and commitment to learning.
Application Requirements
Please submit a single PDF file containing:
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- A cover letter (max 1 page) describing your experience, expertise, and interest in ARIN’s mission.
- Page Maximum Curriculum vitae (CV).
- Copies of academic transcripts and/or certificates.
- Contact information for two references.
Email your application to: human-resource@arin-africa.org no later than December 24th, 2025.
Subject Line: Include the corresponding advert reference number (e.g., Postdoctoral Fellow: Climate Finance Application – Name). Your application files should be clearly labelled e.g., “CV–Margret Andrea”.
Why Join ARIN
ARIN offers a vibrant, multicultural, and collegial research environment, with competitive compensation and benefits. We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and encourage applications from qualified individuals across Africa and beyond.
