Research Intern Post Open at Sonke Gender Justice

Research Intern Post Open at Sonke Gender Justice. The Research Intern will assist in the implementation of the Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) on Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) across Malawi, Uganda, and Ethiopia.

Job Overview

• The intern will support the planning, coordination, data collection, and reporting aspects of the project, ensuring that the youth-led research is carried out effectively.
• The intern will work closely with the Regional RMEL Coordinator, supported by the SRHR Specialist, Regional SRHR Coordinator, and Regional SRHR Senior Trainer to assist with the implementation of the YPAR with key emphasis on research and administrative support, operational and logistics support, quantitative and qualitative data collection, coding and analysis, quality control and data management.
• The intern will liaise with local partners, and stakeholders to ensure successful delivery of project objectives. 

Key Responsibilities

Project Coordination & Support

• Provide research and administrative support to project team.
• Liaise and co-ordinate with country teams regarding the follow up of study participants and scheduling of interviews/focus group discussions/surveys.
• Attend research meetings as required for project staff.

Data Collection & Research Administration

• Assist in developing research tools (surveys, interview guides) in collaboration with youth researchers and project partners.
• Oversee the collection of data, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and completeness of all collected information.
• Conduct in-depth literature reviews.
• Support the monitoring of data entry and storage, ensuring it is properly cataloged and accessible for analysis.
• Participate in the analysis of collected data, supporting youth researchers in interpreting findings.
• Assist with qualitative data management and analysis as needed.

Dissemination

• Assist youth researchers and partners in organizing the dissemination of research findings in Malawi, Uganda, and Ethiopia and coordinate media outreach.
• Support youth researchers in preparing presentations, reports, and policy briefs to communicate research findings to stakeholders and policymakers.
• Coordinate the preparation of information, education, and communication (IEC) materials for youth advocacy efforts.

Reporting & Communication

• Maintain comprehensive records of project activities, including meeting notes, field reports, and updates from youth researchers.
• Contribute to the preparation of monthly progress reports.

Capacity Building

• Assist in facilitating capacity-building workshops for youth researchers, including organizing training sessions on research methodologies, data analysis, and advocacy.
• Provide youth researchers with ongoing technical and support.
• Assist with designing, developing, and distributing materials on the study.
• Organize virtual and in-person meetings for youth participants, stakeholders, and facilitators, including scheduling and preparing necessary documentation.

Key Performance Areas

• Support coordination of YPAR activities across three countries.
• Ensure timely and accurate data collection and reporting.
• Provide support for workshops, trainings, and events.
• Assist in preparing advocacy materials and reports for dissemination.

Educational Requirements

• Masters level qualification in social sciences, public health, international development, or a related field.
• Familiarity with SRHR, CSE, or youth development issues in sub-Saharan Africa is highly desirable.
• Exposure to different research tools and methods.
• Demonstrated experience in program planning and organizing.
• Demonstrated experience in qualitative (interviews and focus group discussion) data collection and quality control.
  Must have experience in conducting literature reviews

Skills and Competencies

• Excellent organizational and planning skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in multicultural teams.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and virtual collaboration tools (Zoom, Google Meet).
• Strong writing and reporting skills.
• Basic understanding of research methodologies (surveys, interviews, focus groups) and data collection processes.
• Willingness to travel and engage with communities in Malawi, Uganda, and Ethiopia.
• Excellent communication – verbal & written skills
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure.

Experience

• Prior experience working in project coordination or research assistance is an asset.
• Experience in youth engagement or working with community-based organizations is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with SRHR programs, especially CSE, in sub-Saharan Africa is an advantage.

Personal Qualities

• Proactive, innovative and eager to learn.
• Passionate about youth-led initiatives, SRHR, and gender equality.
• Flexible and adaptable, able to work in a multi-cultural team.

Key Relationships

• SRHR Specialist
• Regional RMEL Coordinator
• Regional SRHR Coordinator
• Regional SRHR Senior Trainer
• Coordination Intern
• Youth Researchers in Malawi, Uganda, and Ethiopia
• Local Partners and Stakeholders

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and CV detailing their qualifications and experience. Applications should be sent to [email protected].

Closing Date: 10 December 2024.