Position: Research Intern

The Africa Research and Impact Network (ARIN) brings together a network of scholars across Africa who have been undertaking research in various fields including natural resource management, climate change, agriculture, forestry, energy, water and cities to leverage their knowledge and experiences in promoting research excellence and impact pathways. The team includes talented researchers and technocrats expected to pursue a common goal. ARIN’s core focus is on peer learning and sharing good transformative research and impact practices across Africa. Modelled as a network, ARIN seeks to leverage on the capabilities of African talented scholars in a flexible manner.

ARIN seeks to recruit a research Intern who will contribute towards the implementation of several research projects. The terms of reference for the position are listed below.

This position provides an opportunity for International career growth in research and broader networking among the various ARIN networks in Africa and abroad.

Roles:

The research assistant will be expected to undertake the following cross-cutting roles:

• Provide day to day communication and engagement with the over 100 ARIN fellows across Africa.
• Support the ARIN communication team with development of cutting-edge communication products and outreach.
• Support ongoing research projects, through literature review and data analysis.
• Support convening policy dialogues including seminars and research reviews, among others.
• Support other aspects of project implementation.
• Support the preparation and delivery of research outputs such as journal articles, books, policy briefs and op-eds.
• Provide support as guided by the supervisor.

Competence:

This position offers a strategic opportunity for international career growth and networking.  Given the technical and demanding nature of the assignment, the ideal research candidate will be required to demonstrate competence in the following:

• Critical research skills, including literature review, data analysis and preparation of manuscripts.
• Strong communication skills, both written and spoken. The candidate should be proficient in English.
• Leadership and ambition, as demonstrated through innovative initiatives.
• Teamwork, thus able to work with people from various backgrounds, both domestic and foreign
• Independence, whereby candidates would require minimal supervision to execute their duties.

Qualifications:

The following qualifications are required for the position.

• Mandatory:
• A completed Msc degree or its equivalent in the social sciences
• Candidates enrolled in an Msc degree in the social sciences are also welcome to apply.
• Desired:
• Knowledge of a UN official language in addition to English

Benefits:

ARIN is committed to the nurturing research talent in Africa. Successful candidates will benefit from exposure to a fast-paced, world-class research environment. They will get to significantly contribute to the design and execution of research projects. By the end of their assignment, the successful candidates will have strengthened their research, policy analysis and communication skills. It is also anticipated that they will also strengthen their leadership skills, in preparation for successful professional careers.

Duration:

The duration of the assignment will be six months, with a possibility of extension for exceptional candidates. The successful candidates will be expected to work from the ARIN Secretariat in Nairobi if feasible. Working remotely is also possible.

Application:

All applications should be submitted through the online portal accessible through the following link: https://forms.gle/MG92HUnK9sUws3mT6. Only applications submitted through the online portal by the deadline will be considered.

A complete application package would comprise a cover letter (no more than one page) and a CV with contact details for three referees.

Remuneration:

Remuneration will be based on ARIN’s guidelines for Internship.

Selection Process:

Due to the anticipated high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Upon being shortlisted, candidates will be invited to an online or remote interview. Selection for the interview will be subject to performance from a written task for the shortlisted candidates.

Enquiries:

All enquiries should be directed to Syprose Ochieng (S.Adhiambo@arin-africa.org).

Please note the application deadline for this position is 29^th March 2021, 11:59 East African Time (EAT).