Research Assistant at SNV

Purpose of the internship Placement 

• In your role as a Research Assistant, you will gain practical experience in research and data analysis and programme implementation within an international development organisation.
• The intern will be based in Abuja, work with the Programme and project team, across SNV Nigeria’s portfolio, contributing to a range of initiatives that strengthens SNV’s objectives and visibility.
• The intern will report to the Country Director and will take on, a mix of research and data analysis tasks within the dynamic programmes.
• Each week will offer opportunities to learn, co-create, and contribute in meaningful ways.
• To succeed in this role, you should bring a flexible and proactive mindset, a collaborative spirit, and a genuine passion for our mission to advance sustainable and equitable development, making impact that matters. 

This internship offers a unique opportunity to:

• Learn programme implementation within international development.
• Build expertise in conducting research.
• Strengthen your capabilities in analysing data.
• Receive mentorship from professionals within team environment.
• Develop proficiency in team building and stakeholder collaboration.
• Contribute to work that makes a difference.

Job Description

• Conduct desk research on agriculture, agribusiness, renewable energy, water and climate-related issues relevant to SNV programmes.
• Support programme teams with data collection, analysis and interpretation for projects and assignments.
• Track relevant market, policy, technology and investment developments across agriculture, renewable energy and water sectors.
• Prepare concise research briefs, literature reviews, presentations, factsheets and programme inputs.
• Support mapping and profiling of private-sector companies, government institutions, development partners and other stakeholders.
• Assist in gathering and analysing information on value chains, markets, business models and investment opportunities.
• Support field research, interviews, surveys and stakeholder consultations where required.
• Contribute to preparation of project reports, concept notes, proposals, ToRs and other technical documents.
• Support programme team in monitoring project activities and compiling relevant evidence and documentation.
• Organise and maintain research databases, reference materials and project information.
• Support knowledge management by documenting lessons learnt success stories and emerging practices across projects.
• Undertake other research and programme-support tasks assigned by the supervisor.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Science, Agricultural Economics, Development Studies or related field.
• NYSC member with valid deployment to Abuja and graduates with a maximum of 1 year of post-NYSC work experience.

Competencies:
The successful candidate should demonstrate:

• Analytical thinking: Ability to investigate issues, analyse information and draw evidence-based conclusions.
• Research and writing: Ability to translate complex information into clear, concise and useful outputs.
• Learning agility: Willingness to learn quickly and work across multiple technical areas.
• Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively with Programme Managers, Advisors and project teams.
• Initiative: Ability to identify information gaps and proactively support the team in addressing them.
• Attention to detail: Ability to produce accurate and well-structured research and programme outputs.

Additional Information:
Internship Engagement Terms:

• This is a learning placement for a period of 12 months, designed to build capacity and practical experience.
• While it does not constitute employment, the intern/ NYSC member will gain valuable exposure to international development general office operations practices and systems, with mentoring and supervision provided by the experienced team.
• Applicable to Nigeria Nationals only
• Location: Abuja, Nigeria
• Expected start date: October 1, 2026.