The International Institute of Migration and Development (IIMAD) is a vibrant centre for academic research, policy analysis, and community engagement, dedicated to understanding and addressing the complexities of migration, aging, and development in India and beyond. Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, IIMAD has rapidly established itself as India’s largest and most dynamic interdisciplinary research network in the field of migration.
At its core, IIMAD is committed to advancing new thinking and scholarship on migration and development. The institute brings together a diverse community of international migration experts, scholars, and practitioners to foster debate, research, and policy analysis at global, national, and local scales. IIMAD collaborates with government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations, addressing issues such as migration, refugee studies, gender, labor, and elderly care.
IIMAD’s research is rooted in real-world challenges and aims to inform policy and practice. Signature projects include the Kerala Ageing Survey—a pioneering longitudinal study on aging in India—as well as research on the feminisation of agricultural labor, migration-driven transformation, and the well-being of migrant workers and their families. The institute’s work is characterised by rigorous data collection, mixed-methods research, and a commitment to inclusion and social justice.
Beyond research, IIMAD serves as a hub for knowledge dissemination and capacity building. The institute regularly organises conferences, workshops, and training sessions on topics such as big data analysis, demographic transitions, and community health. IIMAD’s publications, data banks, and policy briefs contribute to a growing body of knowledge that supports evidence-based decision-making.
IIMAD is also deeply invested in fostering the next generation of scholars and practitioners. The institute offers opportunities for early-career researchers, postdoctoral fellows, and students to engage in impactful research, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and contribute to academic publications and policy recommendations.
The team you will be working with
IIMAD, on LinkedIn
Irudayar Rajan, Founder Chair
Varsha Joshi, Research Fellow
Diversity, collaboration, and intellectual curiosity are core values at IIMAD. The institute provides a welcoming and supportive environment for people of all backgrounds, encouraging participation from across India and around the world. IIMAD’s distinguished scholar community works to develop new thematic pathways and facilitate knowledge sharing through academic publications, conferences, and community engagement.
