Research Assistant Intern – Research & Policy Pillar (P1)

We are seeking a Research Assistant Intern in our Research & Policy pillar (P1), based in Samuel Hall’s offices in Nairobi, Kenya. The Research & Policy pillar features analysis and stories to change dominant narratives and provide a new lens to support governments, organisations, and communities, to foster more equitable systems and expand spaces for all voices to be heard. This pillar is the backbone of Samuel Hall’s work in advancing the rights of migrants globally: the team produces evidence of the lives and aspirations of migrants and displaced persons. More broadly, P1’s work builds on the belief that for global, regional, and national policies and programmes to be truly impactful, they must resonate with local realities. This dual commitment – to rigorous evidence and grounded policy – drives a fundamental mission to shift perceptions.

Research Assistant interns will contribute to the project cycle, support client management, and provide operational support on projects of the Pillar.

The successful candidate will work from our offices in Nairobi, Kenya, on a full-time arrangement for 6 months with the possibility of retention after successful completion.

Who We Are

Our research connects the voices of communities to changemakers for more inclusive societies. Samuel Hall is a social enterprise that conducts research, evaluates programs, and designs policies in contexts of migration and displacement. Our approach is ethical, academically rigorous, and based on first-hand experience in complex and fragile settings. With offices in Afghanistan, Germany, Kenya, Tunisia, and the United Arab Emirates, we are based in the regions we study.

We have over ten years of experience in 70+ countries and have become a trusted partner and leading voice in the field of migration and displacement research, working with governments, donors, multilateral organisations, and NGOs, as well as public and private sector entities. It’s an exciting time for Samuel Hall – we were recently selected by Stanford University as one of the Global South’s high-potential, fast-growth social enterprises. For more information, please visit www.samuelhall.org.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: We work in a fast-paced, demanding, and challenging environment – you will be expected to grow with us and carve out your spot in the team. We look for proactive, creative individuals who find opportunities to make their mark and identify solutions to problems. We look for strong leaders and reliable team players who can add value from the very start, expand our knowledge, and help us maximise our social impact.

Tasks & Responsibilities

Objective 1 – Research

• Assume responsibilities of the project cycle from A to Z.
• Support the design and development of research tools and methodologies.
• Conduct secondary research and desk reviews.
• Transcribe interview notes, write field reports, and prepare and contribute to draft/final deliverables in a timely manner with strong analysis and recommendations in line with policy and academic standards.
• Liaise with supervisors to improve the quality of outputs.

Objective 2 – Fieldwork

• Undertake socio-economic research, including fieldwork and primary data collection
• Plan and supervise project fieldwork, and ensure adequate resource management with field coordinators
• Support and monitor the field team’s work, provide input to improve the quality of the field team’s interview notes, transcripts, and outputs.

Objective 3 – Organisational Support

• Support business development and pillar tasks
• Ensure all project-related information is stored correctly and support with taking notes in meetings
• Contribute to project meetings and planning
• Direct reporting and support to the research team

Vacancy Requirements

Required

• A recent Master’s graduate in International Relations, International Development, Political Science, or a related field
• Excellent verbal and written skills in English and Kiswahili.
• Keen attention to detail
• Ability to be patient and to work well within a global team
• Ability to cope well under pressure, occasionally work irregular hours and meet tight deadlines

Desirable

• Previous relevant experience of research of contexts of migration and international development, in particular, specific to vulnerable groups.
• Experience in project management
• Proficiency in French, Arabic or any other language relevant to Samuel Hall’s geographical areas of operation.

Location Nairobi, Kenya
Position Research Assistant Intern – Research & Policy Pillar (P1)
Contract Duration 6 months with the possibility of retention after
Vacancy Closure Open until filled