Graduate Trainee – Stakeholder Engagement and Science Diplomacy

Role Overview

This graduate traineeship offers a structured entry point into the expanding field of science diplomacy and stakeholder engagement. Working closely with the Manager for Stakeholder Engagement and Science Diplomacy, you will support the operationalisation of the Science Diplomacy & Advisory Hub, while learning how the Foundation builds and sustains partnerships with governments, funders and research institutions. Day to day, you will help with background research, drafting engagement materials, coordinating meetings, and maintaining the knowledge systems that keep these partnerships moving – all within a deliberately mentored environment designed for someone starting their professional journey.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct guided background research on stakeholders, upcoming meetings, and priority engagement areas, including tracking emerging science diplomacy trends and global policy developments.
• Assist in drafting presentations, meeting summaries, and engagement briefs, learning how to distil complex information into clear internal communications.
• Support the analysis of stakeholder engagement data by compiling inputs and identifying patterns, gaps, and opportunities for strengthening existing partnerships.
• Help maintain internal stakeholder databases covering funders, government agencies, and research partners, and learn how the Foundation's engagement management systems operate.
• Track strategic partnership outcomes and follow-up actions, gaining practical familiarity with documentation and accountability processes.
• Contribute to the coordination of meetings, site visits, and other engagements, including scheduling, notetaking, and monitoring action points.
• Organise and manage stakeholder-related information and records using the Foundation's internal tools and platforms.
• Actively take part in mentoring, feedback, and structured learning sessions, progressively applying newly acquired skills to real tasks.

Requirements & Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree in International Relations, Public Policy, Development Studies, Political Science, Communications, or a directly related discipline.
• No prior work experience is required; this is an entry-level developmental position.
• Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesise information and produce concise summaries.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for preparing materials and interacting professionally with colleagues and external contacts.
• Solid organisational and coordination capabilities, with keen attention to detail and the capacity to manage multiple tasks.
• Genuine interest in stakeholder engagement, partnership building, science policy, and global development.
• Openness to feedback, willingness to take responsibility for assigned tasks, and the ability to collaborate effectively within a team.

What We Offer / Why Join

This is a rare graduate pathway into the world of science diplomacy and high-level policy engagement, offering structured mentorship and direct exposure to conversations with governments, funders, and influential research partners. You will be part of an Africa-focused foundation that values learning-by-doing and invests in developing early-career professionals. The role also places you within a culture committed to respect, accountability, diversity, equity, inclusion, and excellence, ensuring your growth happens in an environment that actively supports both professional and personal development.