Position Title: Research Intern

• Location: Nairobi, Kenya (Hybrid – remote and in-office as required)
• Duration: Three (3) months, with possibility of extension based on performance and programme requirements
• Reports to: Programme Officer, Research and Policy
• Start Date: To Be Determined (TBD)
• Type of Contract: Short-term Internship

Introduction

The Partnership for African Social and Governance Research (PASGR) is an independent, non-partisan, pan-African, not-for-profit organization established in 2011 and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya. Active in more than 26 African countries, PASGR advances research excellence in governance and public policy to improve the wellbeing of women and men across the continent.

PASGR’s core programmes—Research, Capacity Development, and Training—aim to promote evidence-informed policymaking and strengthen governance systems in Africa. In line with its commitment to nurturing the next generation of African researchers and enhancing evidence ecosystems, PASGR seeks to recruit a Research Intern to support ongoing research and policy activities across several projects.

This internship offers a unique opportunity for early-career professionals or graduate students to gain practical experience in applied policy research, including fieldwork planning, logistics management, data collection and analysis, and evidence translation. The intern will collaborate with leading scholars, researchers, and practitioners across Africa.

Purpose of the Role

The Research Intern will support PASGR’s Research and Policy team by providing both technical and administrative assistance in the design, implementation, and communication of research projects. Working under the supervision of a designated Programme Officer or Principal Investigator, the intern will contribute to literature reviews, synthesis reports, fieldwork support, data management, drafting of knowledge products, and stakeholder engagements. The role is designed to offer mentorship, professional growth, and hands-on learning.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

a) Research Support

• Assist research teams with qualitative and quantitative data collection, management, and analysis.
• Conduct literature reviews and synthesize evidence on governance, public policy, and social development topics.
• Support the development of research tools, survey instruments, and fieldwork plans.
• Contribute to drafting sections of reports, policy briefs, and presentations.

b) Knowledge Translation and Learning

• Support the creation of communication products, including blogs, infographics, and summaries of research findings.
• Assist in documenting lessons learned, success stories, and programme insights.
• Contribute to internal learning, reflection sessions, and knowledge-sharing activities within PASGR and partner institutions.

c) Administrative and Logistical Support

• Provide logistical coordination for meetings, workshops, and convenings.
• Support the organization of virtual and in-person events, including minute-taking and report preparation.
• Maintain well-organized digital and physical records of research outputs and related documentation.
• Perform any other administrative tasks as required.

Safeguarding

All interns are required to sign and adhere to PASGR’s official safeguarding policy, which includes a zero-tolerance stance on sexual exploitation and abuse. Interns must also comply with PASGR’s Data Protection Policy. PASGR is committed to safeguarding all individuals with whom it interacts through its work.

Qualifications and Competencies

a. Essential Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Sciences, Economics, Public Policy, Statistics, Development Studies, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated interest in governance, social policy, and evidence-informed decision-making.
• Basic knowledge of research design, data collection, and analysis methods.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English (French is an added advantage).
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

b. Desirable Qualifications

• Prior experience in qualitative or quantitative fieldwork (e.g., interviews, surveys, focus groups).
• Familiarity with African governance and development issues.
• Strong commitment to ethical standards, teamwork, and continuous learning.

6. Learning and Growth Opportunities

The internship provides a practical learning platform for emerging researchers to:

• Gain hands-on experience in applied policy research and evidence translation.
• Receive mentorship and supervision from PASGR’s experienced researchers.
• Build networks with academics, policymakers, and practitioners across Africa.
• Strengthen analytical, communication, and project coordination competencies in a dynamic research environment.

Duration and Remuneration

This is a three-month, full-time internship, with potential extension based on performance and programme needs. A stipend will be provided to support living expenses during the engagement.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit the following:

1. A cover letter titled Research Intern, highlighting motivation and relevant experience.
2. A CV (maximum 3 pages) with contact details for three referees.
3. A writing sample (maximum 5 pages), which may include an academic paper, blog post, podcast script, policy brief, or report excerpt.

Apply Now

Applications must be sent to recruitment@pasgr.org no later than 5:00 p.m. EAT, 12th December 2025.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
PASGR is an equal opportunity employer.