ICT4D Research and Development Intern

Background:
This internship seeks a current undergraduate or graduate student seeking to obtain work experience that aligns with his/her studies within the intersection of global development and technology and/or to fulfill requirements for an academic course or degree. The Intern will work within the ICT4D team at CRS supporting country programs across the agency and carrying out HQ level work.

Primary Function:
The Intern will support a critical function of the ICT4D Innovation and Scale team: Research and Development. Under the direction of the Senior Specialist KML, the Intern will assist in identifying R&D opportunities and supporting learning projects to strengthen CRS’s ICT4D positioning. The Intern will conduct research and analysis to identify and develop ICT4D innovation areas relevant to the ongoing R&D work the team is engaged in, while also supporting ongoing innovation pilots and projects. They will work on ICT4D-focused learning activities, provide support on ongoing R&D projects, and work with team members on the Innovation and Scaling Unit.

Job Responsibility:

Identify ICT4D R&D and Innovation Opportunities

•    Support in reviewing new technologies as part of implementing pilot projects to test emerging ICT4D solutions, 
•    Monitor emerging technologies and trends in ICT4D to identify potential applications and innovations and craft a register of trends and technologies of importance to the agency.

Develop R&D and Innovation Resources

•    Help synthesize learning through literature reviews, horizon scanning exercises, and case studies. 
•    Assist in the organization of ICT4D knowledge management resources, ensuring they are accessible. 
•    Promote knowledge sharing and contribute to the ICT4D Learning Agenda.

Key Working Relationships:

•    Internal: Business Development Specialist, Knowledge Management and Learning Specialist, Director of Innovation and Scale, ICT4D colleagues.
•    External: Not Applicable.

Qualifications:

Must Have
Excellent research and analytical skills
Excellent writing skills
Ability to work independently 
Demonstrated interest in digital tools and technology
Demonstrable interest in the humanitarian/international development sector

Preferred
Demonstrable competencies in design thinking, strategy, innovation
Candidates from all areas of study will be considered; students majoring in international relations, history, engineering, area studies, design, or related are strongly encouraged to apply.  

Disclaimer Clause: This job description is not an exhaustive list of the skill, effort, duties, and responsibilities associated with the position.

CRS’ talent acquisition procedures reflect our commitment to protecting children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation.

Agency REDI Competencies (for all CRS Staff):

• Personal Accountability – Consistently takes responsibility for one’s own actions.
• Acts with Integrity - Consistently models values aligned with CRS Guiding Principles and mission.  Is considered honest.
• Builds and Maintains Trust - Shows consistency between words and actions.
• Collaborates with Others – Works effectively in intercultural and diverse teams.
• Open to Learn – Seeks out experiences that may change perspective or provide an opportunity to learn new things.

Agency Leadership Competencies:

• Lead Change – Continually looks for ways to improve the agency through a culture of agility, openness, and innovation.
• Develops and Recognizes Others – Builds the capacity of staff to reach their full potential and enhance team and agency performance.
• Strategic Mindset – Understands role in translating, communicating, and implementing agency strategy and team priorities.

About Us

Catholic Relief Services is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Catholic Relief Services works to save, protect, and transform lives in need in more than 100 countries, without regard to race, religion or nationality.  Catholic Relief Services’ relief and development work is accomplished through programs of emergency response, HIV, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding.  We welcome as a part of our staff people of all faiths and secular traditions who share our values and our commitment to serving those in need. CRS’ processes and policies reflect our commitment to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation.

CRS welcomes candidates from the countries and regions in which we work. In the event the successful candidate is an expatriate or global telecommuter, the anticipated duration of the assignment is informed by a term limit, based on the type and level of the job and the needs of the agency.

CRS is committed to safeguarding program participants, community members, staff and volunteers from all forms of exploitation and abuse.  The successful candidate is expected to sign and adhere to CRS´ Code of Conduct.

CRS talent acquisition procedures reflect our commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all people - especially children and vulnerable adults - to live free from abuse and harm.

Disclaimer:  This job description is not an exhaustive list of the skill, effort, duties, and responsibilities associated with the position. 

CRS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

General Requirements

CRS offers are contingent on the selected candidate’s ability to legally work where the position is to be performed. Every government has a unique set of work permit eligibility requirements.  All positions requiring residence or frequent travel outside a home country must undergo and clear a pre-employment medical clearance; some work permit processes require clearing a separate government administered medical examination.

CRS prioritizes candidates who are citizens/ permanent residents of the countries where we have CRS offices.