The African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC) is excited to announce its 2026 Internship Program, offering young African scholars a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge research, policy engagement, and capacity-building initiatives. This program is designed to nurture talented individuals into future research leaders who can contribute to health, population, and development solutions across Africa.
APHRC is a leading research-to-policy institution in Africa, committed to generating evidence, strengthening research capacity, and translating knowledge into actionable policy solutions. Through its Research and Related Capacity Strengthening (RRCS) Division, APHRC aims to equip African researchers with the skills, tools, and experience needed to lead impactful research projects and contribute meaningfully to policy discussions.
The 2026 internship program will run for 3 to 6 months, starting in May 2026, and will be offered in a hybrid format. Interns are expected to participate in both online and physical activities when required, ensuring a flexible yet hands-on experience.
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Available Internship Projects
Interns can apply for a wide range of projects aligned with health, population, data science, social sciences, finance, ICT, policy research, and international programs. Some of the key opportunities include:
- Gender and Education Program
- Data Science Program (including platform testing, quality assurance, and software development)
- Health Research Projects focusing on cardiometabolic and mental health conditions, sexual and reproductive health, and early childhood development
- Environmental and Climate Health Projects, including clean cooking, agroforestry, and land restoration initiatives
- Finance, general administration, and ICT support roles
- International Programs and policy-focused projects, including cross-border evidence, social exclusion, and consortium-led research initiatives
The full list of all 35 projects and their detailed descriptions can be accessed on the APHRC website. Interns will have the chance to work closely with experienced researchers and supervisors, gaining exposure to practical research, project management, and policy engagement processes.
Internship Responsibilities
Interns will work directly with supervisors to:
- Develop a personalized work plan with clear objectives for the internship period
- Contribute to research, analysis, and reporting in their assigned project area
- Participate in policy engagement and strategic planning activities as needed
- Deliver at least one brown bag presentation showcasing their work and findings
- Submit a written report summarizing their experience and outcomes at least one week before the internship ends
- Complete an internship feedback form and participate in a follow-up evaluation survey
This structured approach ensures that interns gain meaningful, measurable experience while contributing to APHRC’s broader research and development goals.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Completed a bachelor’s degree within the last six months, or currently pursuing or completing a master’s degree in population studies, statistics, epidemiology, economics, social sciences, or related fields
- Possess strong quantitative and qualitative analytical skills
- Be nationals of sub-Saharan African countries
- Be able to commit to a hybrid internship format, attending in-person sessions when required
Application Process
Applications for the APHRC 2026 Internship Program follow a two-step process:
Step 1: Complete a short online survey available at this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdiEd1bWje7MeIzqlaxFqQOn0BNIHnqCA88dJVDKO9AVfB_Jg/viewform
Step 2: Submit a single PDF document containing:
- Your curriculum vitae (maximum of 2 pages)
- Certificate of completed undergraduate or master’s degree
- Any additional certificates relevant to your internship application
- 1-2 letters of recommendation (maximum of 1 page each), with at least one from an academic supervisor
Email your complete application to aphrctraining@aphrc.org with the subject line “2026 INTERNSHIP.” Only complete and timely applications will be considered.
Important Dates
The application deadline is April 13, 2026. Successful candidates will be contacted for further engagement. This is a highly competitive opportunity, so early and well-prepared applications are encouraged.
Why Apply
This internship provides a platform for young African researchers to gain real-world research experience, strengthen analytical and policy engagement skills, and contribute to projects that directly influence health and development policy in Africa. Interns will have the chance to work alongside experienced researchers, learn from high-impact projects, and build a professional network that can shape their future career paths.
Whether you are interested in research, data science, policy, finance, or program administration, the APHRC 2026 Internship Program offers a transformative experience for motivated and talented young Africans.
For more details and to view all available projects, visit https://aphrc.org/career/2026-internship-opportunities/
