
Essential Job Details
- Position Title: Research and Advisory Intern
- Location: Nairobi, Kenya
- Employment Type: Internship, Hybrid
- Number of Vacancies: 1
- Salary: Confidential
- Category/Department: Research and Advisory – Advisory
- Reporting To: Associate in Research and Advisory Division
- Application Deadline: Rolling Basis
Introduction
Internship opportunities in Kenya present an exciting pathway for aspiring professionals to engage in behavioral science research aimed at alleviating global poverty, particularly within dynamic non-profit settings in Nairobi. This role allows interns to collaborate on innovative projects, blending qualitative and quantitative methods to drive meaningful impact. Ideal for students in their final semester or recent graduates, it offers hands-on experience in designing research instruments, managing field studies, and analyzing data, all while fostering skills in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. Whether you’re passionate about economics, psychology, or public policy, this internship provides a platform to contribute to global challenges and build a foundation for a career in behavioral science.
About Busara Center for Behavioral Economics
Busara Center for Behavioral Economics is a non-profit research and advisory organization with headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, and offices in India, Uganda, Tanzania, Nigeria, and Mexico. Employing over 130 staff from more than 15 countries who speak over 40 languages, the organization has completed projects in more than 50 countries. Founded in 2013, it advances and applies behavioral science to pursue poverty alleviation, having built the world’s largest behavioral science laboratory and developed applied research portfolios in agriculture, health, inclusive finance, governance, and education. As a global leader in behavioral science, it exemplifies the integration of science and application to address issues of equity, access, poverty, and opportunity.
Key Responsibilities
The Research and Advisory Intern will support the division in various capacities, focusing on behavioral science applications to poverty alleviation. Key responsibilities include:
- Support the design and development of research and advisory projects that utilize behavioral science to address global poverty issues.
- Implement qualitative and quantitative behavioral research methodologies to gather and interpret data effectively.
- Develop and pilot research instruments, ensuring they are robust and aligned with project objectives.
- Assist in the management of large-scale field and lab projects, collaborating with leading academics and institutions.
- Organize, clean, and analyze data sets to derive actionable insights.
- Contribute to the dissemination of research results, including preparing project reports and presenting findings.
- Engage in internal projects as required, supporting team initiatives beyond assigned tasks.
- Perform any other duties assigned by the project supervisor, demonstrating flexibility in a dynamic work environment.
These responsibilities ensure the intern gains comprehensive exposure to the full research cycle, from conception to dissemination, while contributing to impactful behavioral science work.
Qualifications and Skills
To thrive in these internship opportunities in Kenya, candidates must possess the following qualifications and skills:
- Enrollment as a student in the final semester of a master’s or undergraduate program, or possession of a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Social Sciences, Public Policy, or related fields.
- Diverse academic background welcomed, including disciplines such as Psychology, Sociology, Economics, Public Policy, Political Science, Statistics, or Marketing.
- High level of self-motivation and energy, with an optimistic “can-do” attitude.
- Interest in qualitative and quantitative research, or demonstrated data analytic skills.
- Flexibility and self-motivation, with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently as a team player.
- Interest and experience in working in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to work independently while also contributing effectively as part of a team.
- Strong interest in behavioral science and its applications.
Preferred qualifications include:
- Prior exposure to research projects or data analysis tools.
- Familiarity with behavioral economics principles or poverty alleviation initiatives.
- Proficiency in software such as Stata, R, or Python for data handling.
These qualifications ensure candidates can contribute meaningfully to ongoing projects while developing essential skills in research and advisory work.
Company Culture and Values
Busara Center for Behavioral Economics promotes a culture of diversity, innovation, and collaboration, valuing diverse thoughts and backgrounds to enrich behavioral science applications. With a global team from over 15 countries, the organization emphasizes equity, access, and opportunity in its mission to alleviate poverty. Staff are encouraged to maintain a high level of self-motivation and energy, fostering an optimistic and flexible work environment. Commitment to data privacy and ethical practices is central, ensuring personal information is handled securely during recruitment and beyond. The organization supports professional growth through hands-on projects and internal initiatives, creating a supportive space for interns to thrive.
How to Apply
Apply now for these internship opportunities in Kenya. To be considered, submit the following documents:
- Updated CV highlighting your academic background and any relevant experience
- Cover letter explaining your interest in behavioral science and suitability for the role
- Academic transcripts or proof of enrollment in the final semester
- Contact details for at least two academic or professional references
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and must be submitted via the online portal at Apply for Internship Opportunities in Kenya. Clearly indicate “Research and Advisory Intern” in your application. By applying, you consent to Busara processing your personal data as outlined in the Data Privacy Statement. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Busara does not charge any fees for applications.
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internship opportunities in Kenya, behavioral science internships, research intern roles Nairobi, NGO advisory positions, poverty alleviation projects
Detailed Overview of Internship Opportunities in Kenya
Internship opportunities in Kenya are increasingly vital for students and recent graduates seeking hands-on experience in innovative fields like behavioral science. This Research and Advisory Intern role at a leading non-profit in Nairobi exemplifies how such positions can bridge academic knowledge with real-world applications, focusing on poverty alleviation through data-driven insights. With a hybrid work model, it caters to flexible learning while contributing to global projects, making it a prime choice for those passionate about social impact.
Why Pursue Internship Opportunities in Kenya?
Internship opportunities in Kenya offer unparalleled exposure to diverse challenges, particularly in non-profit sectors addressing poverty and development. This role stands out by integrating behavioral science, allowing interns to work on projects that influence agriculture, health, and finance. Benefits include:
- Skill Development: Gain proficiency in research design, data analysis, and project management.
- Global Impact: Contribute to initiatives that have reached over 50 countries.
- Networking: Collaborate with academics and institutions from around the world.
- Career Launchpad: Build a portfolio in behavioral economics for future roles.
The Essence of Research and Advisory Internship Opportunities in Kenya
These internship opportunities in Kenya involve supporting the full lifecycle of behavioral research projects. From designing studies to disseminating findings, interns play a key role in applying science to solve equity issues. The hybrid setup in Nairobi allows for a blend of office collaboration and remote flexibility, ideal for balancing studies and professional growth.
Essential Skills for Internship Opportunities in Kenya
Success in internship opportunities in Kenya like this requires a mix of technical and soft skills. Key attributes include:
- Research Acumen: Interest in qualitative and quantitative methods, with basic data analytic capabilities.
- Adaptability: Thriving in fast-paced settings with multiple tasks.
- Teamwork: Collaborating effectively while maintaining independence.
- Motivation: A proactive attitude towards behavioral science and poverty alleviation.
- Diversity Appreciation: Valuing interdisciplinary backgrounds for innovative solutions.
Career Progression Through Internship Opportunities in Kenya
Internship opportunities in Kenya often serve as gateways to full-time roles in research and advisory. This position provides mentorship from associates, exposure to large-scale projects, and opportunities to present results, enhancing resumes for future endeavors in NGOs, academia, or policy-making.
The Role of Behavioral Science in Internship Opportunities in Kenya
Behavioral science is at the heart of these internship opportunities in Kenya, driving projects that use psychological insights to improve outcomes in health, finance, and education. Interns will engage in piloting instruments and analyzing data, directly impacting poverty reduction strategies.
Nairobi as a Hub for Internship Opportunities in Kenya
Nairobi’s vibrant ecosystem makes it a hotspot for internship opportunities in Kenya. As Busara’s headquarters, it offers access to a multicultural team and proximity to regional projects, enriching the intern experience with local and global perspectives.
Tips to Excel in Your Application for Internship Opportunities in Kenya
To stand out for internship opportunities in Kenya:
- Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant coursework in social sciences or data analysis.
- Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Express passion for behavioral science and poverty alleviation.
- Showcase Skills: Mention any prior research or team projects.
- Apply Early: With rolling reviews, submit promptly to increase chances.
- Prepare for Privacy Consent: Understand data handling in the application process.
Navigating the Application for Internship Opportunities in Kenya
The process for internship opportunities in Kenya is straightforward via the online portal. Ensure all documents are up-to-date, and note the rolling deadline for timely submission.
Impact of Internship Opportunities in Kenya on Global Poverty
Internship opportunities in Kenya like this contribute to broader goals of poverty alleviation by advancing behavioral science. Interns help create evidence-based solutions, fostering sustainable development across sectors.
Preparing for Internship Opportunities in Kenya
Aspiring candidates for internship opportunities in Kenya should:
- Review behavioral science basics.
- Practice data cleaning and analysis.
- Build a portfolio of academic projects.
- Network with alumni or professionals in the field.
Future Trends in Internship Opportunities in Kenya
With growing emphasis on data-driven development, internship opportunities in Kenya in behavioral science are set to expand, offering more hybrid roles and international collaborations.
Final Reflections on Internship Opportunities in Kenya
These internship opportunities in Kenya are a stepping stone to meaningful careers, combining passion with purpose in Nairobi’s innovative landscape. Embrace the challenge to make a difference today.