The Nutgraph Social Data Lab is inviting applications for the role of Research Associate – Renewable Energy & Land Systems. This full-time position is based in New Delhi and is offered on a 12-month contract, with the possibility of renewal depending on organisational requirements and individual performance. The role is designed for researchers and practitioners working at the intersection of renewable energy development and land systems governance, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary and data-driven research. About the Organisation Nutgraph Social Data Lab is a research and analytics organisation focused on land governance, infrastructure systems, and resource transition studies in India. The organisation works with interdisciplinary research teams across geographies to produce evidence-based insights that support social and policy change. A key initiative of the organisation is Land Conflict Watch, a flagship and award-winning project that maintains one of India’s largest databases on land-related conflicts. It has documented and tracked over 1,500 verified cases across sectors, including renewable energy, infrastructure, and natural resources. The work of the organisation is widely used by academics, policymakers, journalists, and civil society groups. Purpose of the Role The Research Associate position supports ongoing research at the intersection of renewable energy infrastructure and land-use systems. The role focuses on generating high-quality, data-driven insights that improve understanding of the social, environmental, and financial implications of energy transition projects. The position contributes to developing risk-aware and policy-relevant research outputs that inform sustainable infrastructure planning and decision-making. Key Responsibilities The selected candidate will be expected to undertake a wide range of research and analytical tasks, including: Designing and implementing research projects on renewable energy, land use, and infrastructure systems Developing structured datasets using internal research frameworks and tools Collecting and analysing data from public records, policy documents, and project reports Assessing project-level risks such as delays, cost overruns, and regulatory challenges Conducting field-based research with affected communities and stakeholders Engaging with developers, policymakers, civil society organisations, and community groups Integrating spatial and geospatial datasets for land-use and infrastructure analysis Contributing to policy-relevant research outputs and analytical reports Supporting interdisciplinary collaboration on complex research projects The role requires a balance of fieldwork, analytical reasoning, and data interpretation across multiple domains. Required Qualifications and Eligibility Applicants are expected to meet one of the following criteria: A PhD in renewable energy, land governance, or a related fieldOR A postgraduate degree in one of the following disciplines with 3–6 years of relevant experience: Social Sciences Environmental Studies Economics or Development Economics Public Policy Urban or Regional Planning Geography Other related fields Additionally, candidates should demonstrate: Experience working with qualitative and quantitative research methods Ability to manage and analyse field-based data Exposure to geospatial analysis or remote sensing datasets (directly or in collaboration with technical experts) Willingness to travel for fieldwork and stakeholder engagement Skills That Enhance Candidacy While not mandatory, the following skills will strengthen an application: Understanding of infrastructure finance, investment risk assessment, or cost-benefit analysis Familiarity with renewable energy systems and land governance frameworks in India Knowledge of policy environments related to infrastructure and energy transitions Strong organisational skills and ability to manage independent research projects Capacity to work effectively in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary research environment Work Environment and Expectations The role is suited to individuals who are comfortable working across disciplines, combining field research with data analytics and geospatial methodologies. The organisation places strong emphasis on collaboration, analytical rigour, and policy relevance. Researchers are expected to engage directly with communities, institutional stakeholders, and technical experts to generate grounded and actionable insights. Compensation The remuneration package is competitive within the sector and will be determined based on: Relevant experience Technical skills Academic background Overall suitability for the role Application Process Applicants are required to complete the official application form provided by the organisation. Candidates should prepare the following documents before applying: Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) Cover letter outlining suitability for the role All instructions provided in the application portal must be followed carefully to ensure successful submission. Deadline for Applications Closing Date: 7 May 2026 Late applications will not be considered. Equal Opportunity Statement Nutgraph Social Data Lab is an equal opportunity employer. The organisation maintains a non-discriminatory hiring policy and does not differentiate based on religion, caste, gender, sexual orientation, disability, race, or socio-economic background. Applicants from all communities and backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Conclusion This Research Associate role offers a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge research in renewable energy and land systems. The position combines field engagement, advanced data analysis, and policy research within a globally relevant and rapidly evolving sector. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. 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