Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, Learning, and Adapting (MERLA) Internship, Sum

RTI International seeks a prospect for the Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, Learning, and Adapting (MERLA) Internship within the International Development Group (IDG).

This internship is a contract position. The employment contract is administered by Greene Resources Powered by Array, RTI's supplemental staffing partner.

The Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, Learning, and Adapting (MERLA) team sits within the International Development Group (IDG) at RTI. MERLA is the intentional application of results-focused monitoring, evaluation, and research to inform continuous learning and adaptation for improved program effectiveness, impact, and evidence-based policy decisions. We support MERLA in international development and research programs in dozens of countries globally, cutting across various technical sectors including agriculture, education, energy, governance, health, natural resource management, and resilience.

The MERLA intern will support technical and operational work within the MERLA team to provide support to a variety of programs, technical activities, and new business opportunities across IDG. This work will span a variety of focal geographies and technical areas that IDG operates in. The intern will report to a MERLA Manager and provide needs-based support to technical and business development staff across IDG. This position can be virtual or in-person/hybrid based at RTI's headquarters in Research Triangle Park, NC.

Learning Objectives:

• Learn how RTI applies the MERLA framework to its projects and proposals in the International Development Group 2.
• Learn about RTI's technical work across the multiple sectors and geographies where the International Development Group works

• Support MERLA and technical activities with desk reviews, data analysis, and literature reviews as needed to contribute to project and proposal work across IDG.
• Support MERLA team to conduct knowledge management and thought leadership tasks through drafting technical, marketing and communications materials, contributing to internal qualitative data collection, and other operational activities as needed for the MERLA team.
• Support MERLA staff to draft, design, and implement materials for collaborating, learning, and adapting (CLA) activities.
• Collaborate with project-specific and cross-project teams to assist with data monitoring and aggregation processes, produce data visualization and synthesize knowledge management products.

RTI's Internship Program emphasizes experiential and mentored learning experiences. Interns are exposed to the institute's mission to improve the human condition through projects, professional development trainings, and networking. Program participants have opportunities to engage with staff and fellow interns virtually and in-person. Each summer, interns are encouraged to participate in RTI's annual internship showcase. A two-day hybrid event, the end-of-summer celebration showcases internship experiences and achievements. Come and grow with us!

Additional Information

This paid part-time internship will take place virtually from May 2025 through August 2025. The internship requires a maximum commitment of 20 hours per week. Hours are flexible during business hours, Monday through Friday.

• Current bachelor's level student in the third or fourth year of study OR recent undergraduate degree recipient (degree received August 2024 or later) in a relevant social science field
• Experience conducting literature reviews or desk research
• Proficient in administrative support and organizational skills
• Proven excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong computer skills in Microsoft Office applications
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines under pressure
• Excellent soft skills, including strong interpersonal and communication skills, a problem-solving attitude, and being a self-starter who works both independently and as a collaborative team player

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience analyzing qualitative and/or quantitative data
• Experience with data visualization and/or analysis software (ie. Tableau, STATA, SPSS, etc.)
• Prior experience working, studying, or traveling in developing countries a plus, but not necessary
• Language skills in Spanish or French

As a global employer of choice, RTI is committed to equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging in the workplace and the communities and markets where we serve our mission. We value diversity of thought, culture, background and perspective and welcome applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, creed, citizenship status, disability, protected veteran status, or any other classification protected by applicable discrimination laws or RTI policy.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Further information is available here.

RTI International is an independent, nonprofit research institute dedicated to improving the human condition. Clients rely on us to answer questions that demand an objective and multidisciplinary approach and one that integrates expertise across the social and laboratory sciences, engineering, and international development. We believe in the promise of science, and we are inspired every day to deliver on that promise for the good of people, communities, and businesses around the world. For more information, visit www.rti.org.