Research Assistant

Company Description About SNV SNV is a global development partner, deeply rooted in the countries where we operate. Driven by a vision of a better world where all people live with dignity and have equitable opportunities to thrive sustainably, SNV strengthens capacities and catalyses partnerships that transform agri-food, energy, and water systems. We help strengthen institutions and effective governance, reduce gender inequalities and barriers to social inclusion, and enable adaptation and mitigation to the climate and biodiversity crises. With 60 years of experience and a team of approximately 1,600 people, we support our partners in more than 20 countries in Africa and Asia, tailoring our approaches to different contexts to achieve large-scale impact and create more equitable lives for all. Our core values of people-centeredness and respect, equity and equality, and diversity and inclusion, are fundamental to who we are, and what we do. This is reflected in our vision and mission, and strategy, which sets out our aspirations and commitments as our compass towards 2030. For more information on our operations in Nigeria and SNV visit our website: www.snv.org SNV Nigeria seek to recruit a Research Assistant for Internship/National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) for its Country Programme, to provide support with conducting research, knowledge generation, analyse data and support with preparation of briefs within its programme implementation across its Agriculture, Renewable Energy and Water portfolios. 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 Application and Selection Process How to apply If your credentials meet the outlined profile, and you feel inspired by this opportunity, we invite you to apply by uploading your CV and motivation letter in English on Smart Recruiters. Deadline is September 21, 2026 NB: only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If this role isn’t the right fit but you’re interested in joining SNV in the future, we invite you to follow us on LinkedIn and our career page Vacancies | SNV to stay updated on new opportunities that match your profile. Working at SNV At SNV we challenge and inspire and offer continuous growth. We offer meaningful opportunities to shape the future, expand your skills, and collaborate with a vibrant, global network of experts. At SNV your contribution matter, and your development is our priority. We are home to 57 cultures working in 22 countries, with about 95% of our team members holding the nationality of the respective countries we work in. We promote (international) career development. Our workforce consists of a mix of both people with longstanding tenure, willing to share their institutional knowledge, as well as people with external backgrounds and experience. All with an inquisitive view and united in ‘ONE SNV’ working towards our purpose. Together, we are committed to the effective and efficient stewardship of resources and maximising positive, lasting impacts. Our ability to deliver results rests on our robust foundation of experience, technical knowledge, evidence and learning; our commitment to strengthening capacities and catalysing partnerships; and the relationships and trust of those we work alongside. At SNV, inclusivity is at the heart of our ethos. We celebrate the diversity of our workforce and uphold a policy of non-discrimination based on factors such as disability status, religion, ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, and more. Reference and vetting check At SNV, our belief in the CARE principles — Commitment to impact, Adaptive to Context, Respecting Difference and Expertise in Practice — shapes how we work with each other and every interaction we have with our colleagues, partners, and the communities we serve. These values guide how we welcome new team members, ensuring our workplace remains a place of trust, safety, and dignity for all. As part of our commitment to a safe, inclusive, and respectful workplace, we carry out reference and background checks for all determined positions, with particular attention to safeguarding. You will be invited to provide the contact details of [two] referees, and we will only approach them once you have given your permission. We handle this process with care, empathy, and strict confidentiality, using the information solely for purposes related to your application and the role you have applied for. SNV is committed to safeguarding and to protecting children and adults from all forms of harm, with zero tolerance for sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, or any other form of misconduct. As part of creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive working environment, all staff, consultants, and partners are expected to uphold SNV’s safeguarding, child protection, ethical standards, and CARE principles. In line with these commitments — and as a participant in the Inter‐Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme (MDS) — SNV will request a Statement of Conduct from your previous employer(s), covering any substantiated findings of misconduct, to ensure a recruitment process that safeguards and protect the communities we serve.