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Organization: ISST- Institute pf Social Studies Trust- At ISST, we welcome individuals who share our passion and commitment to creating positive change through research, evaluation, community work, and capacity building. Joining our team means not only becoming a part of the dynamic community at the organization but also becoming a dedicated member of the ecosystem that works towards building a more just and equitable society with a gender perspective. We offer an energetic, supportive, and inclusive work environment that encourages creativity, learning, and growth for all. 

About the Internship

• Position: Research Associate (Full time)
• Program: Gender based violence and work
•  Last date for Submission of Application: July 18, 202
• 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 50,000 – 60,000/- per month
• Location: The position is based in Delhi (on-site), India

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.

Responsibilities:

• Research and Knowledge Building: Support research activities across intersecting themes related to gender, work, and gender-based violence. This includes reviewing literature, policies, and practices, as well as collecting and organizing primary data. The RA will assist in analyzing qualitative and/or quantitative data and contribute to drafting reports, briefs, and other publications.
• Curriculum and Manual Development: Assist in designing and delivering interdisciplinary learning materials across thematic areas. This includes supporting the development of courses (such as a blended format course on Women and Work) and capacity-building manuals. 
• Tasks may include conducting background research, helping draft content, coordinating with experts and partners, and organizing workshops or modules for in-person and digital formats.

Programmatic Support and Consultations: 

• Coordinate and support consultations with diverse stakeholders—such as community-based organizations, researchers, activists, and practitioners—to inform program design and research agendas. The RA will assist in documentation, logistics, and synthesis of insights from these engagements.
• Strategic Input and Integration: Provide research-based inputs to support strategy development and programmatic planning across focus areas. The RA will contribute to drafting strategy notes or concept papers, and work with teams to align thematic insights with organisational goals, including efforts at fundraising..

Program Design and Innovation:

• Assist in conceptualising and documenting innovative program design elements, including training tools, intervention strategies, and partnership frameworks that reflect grounded feminist praxis.
• Knowledge Dissemination: Support the documentation and dissemination of research findings, pedagogical materials, and field-based knowledge through multiple formats—reports, blogs, social media, or learning tools. The RA will also help identify platforms and networks for wider sharing and uptake.
• Coordination and Collaboration: Work closely with the Program Lead and other team members to support the planning, implementation, and documentation of thematic and project-based work. This includes regular communication and coordination to ensure timely execution of responsibilities.

Qualifications:

• Education: Masters or MPhil degree in gender studies, economics, sociology, public policy, development studies social science 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 gender based violence and understanding on intersectionalities of gender will be advantageous.
• Research Skills: Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research using qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Proficiency in data analysis tools and software is essential .
• Analytical Thinking: Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to identify and articulate solutions to complex gender-related issues particularly on gender based violence in the world of work .
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. The ability to present research findings in a clear and compelling manner for a various diverse audience 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.

Selection process

To apply, please submit your CV, cover letter, 2 reference letter and a writing sample showcasing your writing and research abilities to “appointments.isst@gmail.com”. The application deadline is 18th July, 2025. Please mention in the subject line ‘Application for Research Associate in gender based violence and work .’ Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview and a written test in person.

Organizational 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 visit www.isstindia.org).