Internship: Gender, Youth and Social Justice in the STAR-FARM project

Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD)

The French National Institute of Research for Development (Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, IRD) is a leading scientific institution addressing major development challenges and is internationally recognized for its multidisciplinary research. It operates under the dual supervision of the French Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation and the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs. For over 75 years, IRD has conducted original research, provided expertise, and supported training and knowledge sharing to benefit regions and countries that view science and innovation as key drivers of development. This position will be based in the UMMISCO research unit and hosted by the IRD/TLU ACROSS Laboratory.

STAR-FARM Project

The STAR FARM project, coordinated by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and funded by the EU Delegation in Vietnam under the DeSIRA program, is a four-year initiative aimed at promoting more sustainable agri-food systems in the Mekong Delta. Implemented in partnership with several organizations, including IRD, the project focuses on supporting the most vulnerable groups by encouraging the adoption of agroecological practices at both small and large scales. It explores the impacts of these practices on soil health, value chains, and carbon emissions. By strengthening capacity in key agroecological innovations (KAEIs), business development, green finance, and sustainable standards, STAR FARM empowers farmers and entrepreneurs to enhance their skills in sustainable agriculture and agribusiness development.

Can Tho and/or Hanoi

Mission

We are seeking motivated and committed Research Interns to support ongoing research and field-based activities related to social inclusion, gender equity, and youth participation in agriculture transformation in the Mekong Delta. Interns will work closely with the research team on community-engaged activities in the Mekong Delta and contribute to both analytical and practical aspects of social inclusion research.

(1) Religion and Spirituality in Farmers’ Livelihoods
This topic explores how religion, spirituality, and local cultural beliefs shape agricultural decision-making, risk perception, and everyday social life among farming households

(2) The Role of Youth in Agricultural Practices
This research explores the roles and potential of young people in transforming agricultural value chains in the Mekong Delta, focusing on youth engagement, gender dynamics, and pathways to promote inclusive, sustainable, and resilient agricultural development.

(3) Understanding Gender Issues and Social Justice in Agricultural Transitions
This study investigates gender relations, decision-making processes, and access to resources during the transition to rice–shrimp farming, contributing to the co-development and testing of social justice guidelines through anthropological fieldwork.

Activities

• Conduct and support qualitative and participatory research, including interviews, observations, and community engagement
• Assist with fieldwork organization, data collection, transcription, and documentation
• Contribute to analysis, synthesis, and preparation of research outputs such as field notes, case studies, and reports
• Participate in team learning and reflection sessions to share field insights and improve project approaches

Education

Bachelor’s degree or final-year undergraduate student in social sciences, gender studies, development studies, or related fields.

Skills

• Interest in social justice, gender equity, youth, and rural development
• Basic qualitative research skills or willingness to learn
• Comfort with fieldwork and community engagement (in the Mekong Delta is a plus)
• Good communication, listening, and note-taking skills
• Ability to work independently and in a team
  Vietnamese required; English is a plus
  

Attitudes

• Ability to work in a team and in a multicultural environment. 
• Willingness to learn, explore and bridge interdisciplinary methods, and openness to adapting new and emerging methodologies.

Send CV and cover letter before 30th January 2026  to Ms. Huynh Linh, IRD Researcher, huynhtplinh@gmail.com or linh.huynh-thi-phuong@ird.fr 

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. We appreciate the interest of all applicants and thank you for taking the time to apply.