Researcher

Role: Research, Data Analysis, Reporting, Documentation; collaboration with Georgia Tech Requirements: Masters, 2+ years experience, MS Excel, SPSS, problem-solving, qualitative research, reporting, communication skills Location: Remote . Periodic Travel to Bihar  Apply: Send CV and Statement of Purpose to  ___________________________________________ Organization profile i-Saksham was co-founded in 2015 by ex-Prime Minister’s Rural Development Fellows to build local young women as 'Leaders of Change' through education (edu-leaders) in disadvantaged geographies like Bihar. The objective is to build a grassroots movement of change agents to promote “Voice and Choice For Every Woman” and shift a typical trajectory of young women away from dropping out of higher education, early marriage, and limited public life.  Our women edu-leaders undergo a 2-year leadership development program followed by continuous network building to: a. Gain self-belief that their identity matters and grow as role models b. Collaborate with the government. school of their village to enhance educational inclusion of underserved children. c. Collectivize into a peer-driven community of change agents to promote women's leadership at various levels of socio-economic life Currently, i-Saksham is a team of 80 people and has a network of 800 women edu-leaders in 5 districts of Bihar-Begusarai, Gaya, Jamui Munger, and Muzaffarpur. The registered office of i-Saksham is in New Delhi. Position Summary: Researcher The Researcher will undertake periodic, in-depth research studies examining the intersections of voice, decision-making, and empowerment among young women in rural Bihar. This research will also investigate the roles of parental support and social norms in shaping the lives of these women. As part of this role, the researcher will have the opportunity to collaborate with a senior researcher from Georgia Tech University, gaining valuable insights and expertise in research design, methodology, and analysis. This position offers a unique opportunity for a postgraduate candidate to develop their research skills, deepen their understanding of gender and social dynamics in rural India, and contribute meaningfully to a mission-driven team. Responsibilities include but not limited to:

1. Research Operations:

- Design and implement research studies focusing on the experiences and challenges of young women in rural Bihar. - Collect, analyze, and interpret data using mixed-methods. - Prepare detailed reports and presentations based on research findings. - Ensure ethical standards and procedures are followed during research activities. - Facilitate focus groups, interviews, and surveys with community members. 2. Collaboration and Community Engagement: - Collaborate with edu-leaders, local communities, and stakeholders to gather insights and validate research findings. - Engage with local schools, government bodies, and NGOs to support research initiatives. 3. Dissemination and Impact: - Share research findings through reports, articles, presentations, and social media. - Contribute to the development of policy recommendations and advocacy strategies based on research outcomes. - Support the organization in measuring the impact of its programs and initiatives. Eligibility Criteria:

• Essential Education and Experience: Candidates must hold a M.Phil/ Ph.d s degree in either of Social Sciences, Education, Gender Studies, or a related field, with at least 1 year of relevant research experience and field survey experience. 
• Research Skills: Proficient in mixed methods research, specially in qualitative and participatory research and survey methodologies, including design, data collection, analysis, and reporting. Familiarity with Microsoft Excel, SPSS, NVivo, or similar software is a plus.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to present complex information in a clear and concise manner.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Should be a problem-solver in head, heart, and hand with a proven ability to work independently and coordinate in teams.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding of and respect for the socio-cultural context of rural Bihar.

Selection Process: Interested candidates should upload their CV and complete the basic assessment via this link:   . The CV should include links to samples of the candidate's previous work. Please note that only candidates shortlisted based on their CV and assessment performance will be contacted for the next round of assignments and interviews. Other Details:

• Project Location: Remote. However, the candidate must be willing to travel to any of the other districts/ project locations (Begusarai, Gaya, Jamui, Munger, Muzaffarpur) and the Registered office in Delhi as required by the Organization.
• Vacancies: 1
• Deadline: Applications will be reviewed on a roll-over basis, and the position will remain open until filled. Early applications are encouraged.