Internship Opportunity Data & Research Support Intern (3+ months)

Background

Resource Matters is a non-governmental organization that works to ensure that mineral and energy resources in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) generate tangible benefits for its population and contribute to a just and inclusive energy transition.

As part of its work, Resource Matters has developed three interactive platforms: 

• Cobalt Supply Chains Platform: Tracks global supply chains of cobalt, a strategic mineral for the energy transition.
• Congo Epela Platform: Identifies and maps optimal electrification solutions across the DRC.
• Makuta Ya Maendeleo Platform: Provides transparency on tax payments made by mining companies to local administrations.

To support the continuous development and improvement of these platforms, Resource Matters is seeking a Data & Research Support Intern.

Objectives of the internship

The intern will support the collection, management, validation, and analysis of quantitative and geospatial data to enhance the organization’s platforms and contribute to evidence-based research outputs.

Scope of work and responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Research Coordinator, the intern will:

Data collection & management

• Assist in identifying and collecting new transactions related to cobalt, lithium, and other minerals for updating the Supply Chain platform. 
• Perform data entry and ensure proper structuring of datasets for the Cobalt Supply Chain and Makuta Ya Maendeleo platforms.
• Validate data inputs and transactions for the Cobalt Supply Chain and Makuta Ya Maendeleo platforms.

Geospatial analysis

• Process and analyze geographical data using QGIS and the OnSSET tool (short training provided during the internship).
• Support updates and improvements to the Congo Epela platform.

Research support

• Assist in researching and compiling information for the development of new platform features.
• Support the Research Coordinator in drafting analytical notes based on available data.

Qualifications and skills

The candidate selected must be thorough, rigorous, and fast-learner. As an intern, the desire to learn and the ability to quickly absorb new information will take precedence over the candidate’s experience.

The ideal candidate will have the following skills and qualifications:

• Hold a degree in economics, political science, development studies, geography, data management, or a related field
• Be legally authorized to stay in Belgium or already studying and residing in Belgium
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Office Suite
• Knowledge of GIS tools (QGIS, ArcGIS, or similar)
• Basic programming knowledge and familiarity with GitHub and development tools such as Visual Studio Code and Supabase
• Strong ability to process and analyze quantitative data
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• High level of autonomy and initiative
• Ability to learn quickly and adapt to new tools
• Good written and verbal communication skills in English (French is an asset)

Duration and conditions

The internship will last for a minimum of three months on a full-time basis, with the possibility of extension. The position is based in Brussels, Belgium, and offers a monthly net allowance ranging between €800 and €1.000, depending on qualifications and experience.

How to apply?

All interested candidates are invited to submit their CV, cover letter, and two samples of completed work to recrutement@resourcematters.org with the subject line “Internship – Data & Research Support Intern,” before 31 July 2026.

Selection process

1. Document review

Applications (CV, cover letter, and references) will be assessed. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to the next stage.

2. Testing

The second stage of recruitment is an online written test of 2 hours. The test will be sent by email and requires access to a computer and a good internet connection. In case you do not have access to a computer, the test can be arranged at the Resource Matters office in Brussels. If the test is successful, we will send you a positive response to move on to the next step. If it is not conclusive, we will contact you at the end of the procedure.

3. Interview

Final candidates will participate in a 30-45 minute virtual panel interview. Following the interview and reference checks, candidates will be informed of the outcome.