Join Nutgraph Social Data Lab as Research Associate

Location: New Delhi, Delhi
Experience: 3–6 years in energy, land systems, social sciences or related areas
Compensation: Competitive
Closes on: May 7, 2026

Nutgraph Social Data Lab is a research group that looks at how land and resources are used in India. They run Land Conflict Watch, a famous project that tracks land disputes. Their goal is to use data and stories from the ground to help people make better decisions about development and social change.

Role

You will lead research on how renewable energy projects affect land and local communities. Your work will involve collecting data, visiting project sites, and using maps to help plan better, safer energy infrastructure.

Responsibilities

Help design and carry out research on renewable energy, land use, and infrastructure projects
Build and manage organised datasets using Nutgraph's research tools, drawing from public records, policy documents, project reports, and published research
Look at how projects are affected by delays, rising costs, and financial risks tied to land and regulatory issues
Design and carry out on-the-ground research with communities and other groups affected by large infrastructure projects
Work with developers, policymakers, community organisations, and civil society groups
Use mapping and location-based data to study land use, where projects are located, and how landscapes change over time
Contribute to research that informs risk assessment and policy decisions

Requirements

PhD in a related field or a Master’s degree in Social Sciences, Economics, Public Policy, or Geography.
3 to 6 years of experience in research or infrastructure projects.
Strong skills in both talking to people for field data and analyzing numbers.
Experience using geospatial or map-based data tools.
Fluency in English and ability to communicate clearly with diverse groups.
Deep knowledge of India's energy sector and land laws.
Ability to work independently and manage project timelines.