BESNET II Research Intern

About the role

The Research Intern will support the BES‑Net II project in Namibia by generating geospatial evidence on invasive cacti control measures. The role involves building a database, conducting field verification, and analysing the effectiveness of past mechanical and biological interventions.

Key responsibilities

• Establish a geospatial database capturing locations, species, control methods, dates, responsible institutions and current site conditions.
• Collect and validate data through stakeholder interviews, field visits and GIS mapping using QGIS.
• Compare historical mechanical and biological control approaches, identify success factors and document lessons for future management.
• Prepare monthly progress updates, contribute to maps, datasets and science‑to‑policy briefs, and support BES‑Net II reporting.

Required profile

• Enrolled in a postgraduate degree programme or in the final year of a bachelor’s degree, or recently graduated (within one year).
• Degree in Natural Sciences, Ecological Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Biodiversity Conservation, Natural Resource Management or a closely related field.

Required skills

• GIS
• QGIS
• Geospatial database management