Position: Research Associate (Full time)

[InstituteofSocialStudiesTrust]

Program: Informality, Precarious Work and Care

Location: New Delhi

Organisational Profile:

Institute of Social Studies Trust (ISST) is a non-profit organization registered in 1980. ISST has been consistently working towards bringing social change with focus on livelihood, work, and well-being of vulnerable communities. It attempts to visibilize gender dimensions of labour through a public-spirited inquiry especially focusing on issues concerning women, children, and other marginalized communities through a gender transformative approach. It does so through empirical research as well as community development programs. Presently ISST is engaged in a range of macro and micro level research including community development programmes directed towards social justice, equity and economic empowerment of women, adolescents, and children (for more information please visit www.isstindia.org).

Position Overview:

The Research Associate will play a crucial role in conducting research using mixed methods, policy analysis, and program development from a gender transformative lens aimed at advancing gender equality and social justice.

The ideal candidate should have a strong background in gender studies, public policy, social sciences, or related fields and 2-3 years of work experience.

Location: The position is based in Delhi (on-site), India.

Responsibilities:

Research and Analysis: Conduct extensive research on the selected programmatic theme, examining relevant literature, policies, best practices, and lessons learned from similar initiatives. Collect primary data, organize, and interpret data from diverse sources to support research projects and publications.

Consultations: Assist in organizing consultations with key actors relevant to the programmatic theme. Including partner organizations, practitioners, academics, policy shapers and experts in the field, to gather insights and perspectives to design the programmatic theme at ISST.

Strategy Development: Based on the research and consultations, contribute to developing a comprehensive strategy paper that outlines clear goals, objectives, and strategies to address the identified challenges and capitalize on opportunities relevant to the programmatic theme. Collaborate with relevant teams to integrate the programmatic theme into the broader organizational framework.

Program Design: Propose innovative and evidence-based program design elements, including interventions, methodologies, training tools, and potential partnerships to achieve the desired outcomes.

Knowledge Sharing: Keep abreast of the latest developments and trends in feminist scholarship, gender issues, paid and unpaid care work, informal labour and women’s movements, and share knowledge within the organization and outside. Develop strategies for effective dissemination of research material, methodologies and pedagogies within and outside the organization.

Qualifications:

Education: Masters or MPhil degree in gender studies, economics, sociology, public policy, social work, or a related field. A solid understanding of feminist theory and its application is essential.

 Experience: Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in the development field in research, policy analysis, or advocacy related to gender and women's rights. Experience of working on issues around care work, informality and precarity will be advantageous.

Research Skills: Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research using qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Proficiency in data analysis tools and software is preferred.

Analytical Thinking: Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to identify and articulate solutions to complex gender-related issues.

Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. The ability to present research findings in a clear and compelling manner is essential. Hindi or knowledge of an Indian vernacular language will be an added advantage.

Team Player: Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse team environment, sharing ideas, and contributing to collective goals.

Passion for Gender Equality and Social Justice: A deep commitment to feminist principles, social justice, and gender equality issues in India and globally.

Adaptability: Flexibility to work on multiple projects simultaneously and adapt to evolving research priorities.

Compensation

This is a full time 11 months contract which is extendable upon mutual agreement. The compensation depends on educational qualification and experience within the range of 40,000 – 60,000/- per month.

Selection process

To apply, please submit your CV, cover letter, reference letter and a writing sample showcasing your research abilities to “[e-mail]”. Please mention in the subject line ‘Application for Research Associate: Informality, Precarious Work and Care.’ Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview and a written test in person.

https://isstindia.org/work-with-us