Field Research Intern - Mannan & Paliyar Community Focus

Location: Idukki district, with occasional travel to Kochi
Experience: NA
Salary: ₹10,000 per month

ARPO

Imagine a world where every forgotten song, every whispered legend, and every fading mural finds its way back into the light. That’s the world ARPO is working to create. Based in Kerala, ARPO (Archival and Research Project) is a not-for-profit organisation that breathes new life into India’s rich and diverse cultural heritage, one story at a time. Founded in 2021, ARPO believes that reconnecting with our roots—through music, art, language, and tradition—can inspire a more inclusive and sustainable future for everyone.

The heart of ARPO’s work beats in the villages and communities where traditions are at risk of being lost. Through their flagship initiative, Earthlore, the team documents and shares the music, crafts, and stories of tribal cultures, ensuring these treasures are celebrated and passed on. ARPO’s restoration of the Kunnamangalam Bhagavathi Temple, recognised by UNESCO, is just one example of how they blend conservation with community pride.

From archiving folklore and hosting music festivals to running workshops that connect artists and students, ARPO’s projects are as vibrant as the cultures they protect. The team—made up of researchers, artists, and community members—works hand-in-hand with tradition bearers, making cultural knowledge accessible and alive for all.

At ARPO, every project is a promise: that the stories of yesterday will inspire the dreams of tomorrow.

Role

ARPO is looking for enthusiastic and dedicated Field Research Interns to join its team and support ongoing research activities with the culturally rich Mannan and Paliyar communities. This is a wonderful opportunity for anyone passionate about language, culture, and field research, and eager to gain hands-on experience in qualitative data collection and meaningful documentation.

Responsibilities

Collect and document language samples, including vocabulary, grammar, and usage, from Mannan community members.
Assist in the respectful collection and recording of traditional lore, songs, and oral histories.
Organise, transcribe, and carefully document all research data and findings.
Support general field data collection and other research activities as required.

Requirements

Proficiency in both English and Malayalam is essential for effective communication and data collection.
Highly organised and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage data in challenging field environments.
Proactive, adaptable, and willing to take initiative in dynamic field settings.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills for building rapport and conducting interviews.
Respect for indigenous communities, their traditions, knowledge systems, and privacy.
Ability to work well within a team, demonstrating integrity, honesty, and alignment with ARPO’s values.
Students or recent graduates in Malayalam, Journalism, Linguistics, Anthropology, Sociology, or related fields are encouraged to apply.
Prior experience in field research, qualitative data collection, or community engagement is a plus, but not mandatory.
Familiarity with audio recording equipment or transcription is beneficial.

Benefits

Hands-on field experience in significant cultural and linguistic research.
Deep cultural immersion and engagement with the Mannan community’s rich heritage.
Skill development in data collection, interviewing, and analysis.
Mentorship and guidance from experienced researchers.
The chance to play a vital role in documenting and preserving invaluable cultural knowledge.
Stipend of INR 10,000 per month, with travel allowance provided for fieldwork.