Exciting Internship Opportunity: Research Data Systems Intern at UGHE
The University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) in Butaro, Rwanda, is offering an exceptional opportunity for aspiring data scientists and public health professionals. If you're passionate about leveraging data to improve population health outcomes and eager to gain hands-on experience in a meaningful research environment, this Research Data Systems Internship could be your perfect next step.
About the Opportunity
This full-time internship, lasting three to six months, positions you at the heart of groundbreaking public health research. You'll be supporting the Human Development and Demographic Surveillance System (HD2SS), a flagship program established in September 2025 that serves as a primary field research platform for UGHE and its collaborators.
The HD2SS generates vital longitudinal data on disease patterns, health condition impacts, and human development indicators, contributing to evidence-based health interventions in Rwanda and beyond.
What You'll Do
As a Research Data Systems Intern, your responsibilities will be tailored to your skills while focusing on three core areas:
Database Management and Programming
- Develop and maintain data extraction and transformation pipelines
- Create code-based workflows to support research needs
- Build interactive dashboards and data quality reports
- Prepare clean, well-documented datasets for research publications
Data Quality Assurance
- Design and implement quality control reports
- Observe field interviews in Kinyarwanda to ensure data integrity
- Identify and resolve data errors systematically
Research Support and Reporting
- Generate compelling data visualizations
- Prepare professional presentations and reports
- Support the research team's publication efforts
Who Should Apply
The ideal candidate brings:
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in computer science, statistics, or a related quantitative field
- Programming experience (Python, R, or SQL preferred)
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Excellent English communication abilities
- Rwandan citizenship (non-negotiable requirement)
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with health-related data collection and analysis
- Kinyarwanda language proficiency
- Familiarity with Git or version control systems
- Master's degree in a related field
- Willingness to reside at UGHE's Butaro campus
Why This Internship Matters
This position offers more than just professional development, it's an opportunity to contribute to transformative health research in one of Africa's most dynamic health institutions. UGHE, an initiative of Partners In Health, has spent nearly three decades delivering high-quality healthcare to marginalized communities worldwide, with a particularly profound impact in Rwanda through its partnership with Inshuti Mu Buzima.
The dual focus of this internship ensures you'll both contribute meaningfully to ongoing research while developing valuable skills in data science, database development, and public health research. With the possibility of transitioning to a full-time position based on performance and funding availability, this could be the launching pad for your career in global health data systems.
About UGHE
The University of Global Health Equity is revolutionizing healthcare delivery globally. Founded in 2015, UGHE cultivates the next generation of global health leaders doctors, nurses, researchers, and policy experts who are committed to delivering equitable, quality health services for all.
The university's values of social justice, partnership with those in need, and intellectual curiosity with humility create a unique environment for professional growth and meaningful impact.
Application Details
Deadline: February 14th, 2026
Required Materials:
- Resume
- Cover letter (describing your programming experience, public health interest, and career goals)
- Contact information for two references
- Copies of all degrees earned
All materials should be uploaded according to the application instructions, with the cover letter and degree copies combined into a single PDF.
Ready to Apply?
Visit the Partners In Health employment portal to submit your application: https://www.pih.org/employment?p=job%2FolL6yfwu
This internship represents a unique convergence of technical skill development, meaningful research contribution, and the opportunity to support health equity in Rwanda. If you're a Rwandan citizen with programming skills and a passion for public health, this could be the opportunity you've been waiting for.
Don't miss the February 14th deadline. Start preparing your application today!

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