Research Data Systems Intern University of Global Health Equity

 

Research Data Systems Intern internship at University of Global Health Equity UGHE Butaro RwandaResearch Data Systems Intern, University of Global Health Equity (UGHE), Butaro, Rwanda.

The University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) invites qualified and motivated Rwandan candidates to apply for the position of Research Data Systems Intern, based at its Butaro Campus in Rwanda. This professional internship offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in data systems, public health research, and population health analytics within a globally recognized academic institution.

This internship is particularly suited for candidates with a strong quantitative background and an interest in applying programming and data management skills to support high-impact health research initiatives.

Position Details

• Position Title: Research Data Systems Intern
• Organization: University of Global Health Equity (UGHE)
• Department: Centre for Population Health (CPH)
• Reports to: Data and Research Fellow
• Duty Station: UGHE Butaro Campus, Rwanda
• Internship Duration: 3 to 6 months (with potential transition to full-time employment, subject to performance and funding)
• Eligibility: Open to Rwandan citizens only

About the Centre for Population Health (CPH)

The Centre for Population Health (CPH) at UGHE serves as a central platform for field research, education, training, and community engagement aimed at improving population health outcomes in Rwanda and globally.

CPH leads the Human Development and Demographic Surveillance System (HD2SS), established in September 2025 in rural Butaro. The HD2SS collects longitudinal data on disease patterns, epidemiological trends, socio-demographic indicators, and broader human development outcomes. This system supports both UGHE-led research and collaborations with external research partners.

Role Overview

The Research Data Systems Intern will provide technical and operational support to the HD2SS data management team. The internship has two primary objectives:

1. To support ongoing data management, quality assurance, and reporting activities within HD2SS
2. To strengthen the intern’s professional skills in data science, programming, database systems, and public health research

The intern will work closely with the Butaro-based research and data management teams and contribute to the development of reliable, high-quality research datasets.

Key Responsibilities

Database Management and Programming

• Support the development and maintenance of data extraction, transformation, and loading (ETL) pipelines.
• Assist with routine database management tasks and respond to data requests from research teams.
• Develop and maintain code-based workflows to support research and operational needs.
• Prepare clean, structured, and well-documented datasets for analysis, reports, and publications.
• Develop data quality reports and, where appropriate, interactive dashboards to monitor data collection processes.

Data Quality Assurance

• Design and routinely run data quality assessment reports to identify errors and inconsistencies.
• Collaborate with field and data teams to resolve identified data issues.
• Conduct direct data quality checks by observing field interviews conducted in Kinyarwanda.

Reporting and Data Visualization

• Generate data visualizations, summaries, and tabulations to support research activities.
• Prepare PowerPoint presentations, analytical reports, and research posters for internal and external use.

Required Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Statistics, or a related field with a strong quantitative and programming focus.

Technical Skills

• Prior exposure to programming languages such as Python, R, or SQL, with a strong willingness to learn and expand technical skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneDrive
• Foundational knowledge of quantitative research methods, data collection, and data analysis.
• Strong commitment to data quality, data security, and confidentiality.

Professional Competencies

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience with health-related data collection, management, or analysis.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in Kinyarwanda.
• Familiarity with Git or other version control systems.
• Master’s degree in a related field such as Computer Science or Statistics.
• Willingness to reside at the UGHE Butaro Campus and travel to HD2SS field sites within the Butaro sector.

About the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE)

The University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) is an innovative academic institution committed to transforming global health delivery through equity, excellence, and leadership. Established in Rwanda in 2015, UGHE educates and trains future health professionals, researchers, and policy leaders dedicated to strengthening health systems and advancing social justice.

UGHE is an initiative of Partners In Health (PIH), an internationally respected non-profit organization with decades of experience delivering high-quality healthcare in partnership with governments and communities in some of the world’s most underserved settings.

Commitment to Safeguarding

UGHE is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all community members. The University enforces strict policies to prevent sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment, and conducts comprehensive pre-employment and reference checks in line with institutional safeguarding standards.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit the following documents:

1. A current resume (CV)
2. A cover letter outlining relevant programming experience, interest in public health, and alignment with career goals
3. Names and contact details of two professional or academic referees
4. Copies of all academic degrees earned

Applicants are required to upload their cover letter and copies of degrees as a single PDF file under the “Additional Files” section of the application portal. Applications from non-Rwandan candidates will not be considered.

Application Deadline and Link

• Deadline: 14 February 2026
• Application Link: https://www.pih.org/employment?p=job%2FolL6yfwu
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This internship presents a valuable opportunity to contribute to meaningful public health research while gaining practical experience in research data systems within a mission-driven academic environment. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply before the deadline.