Research Head

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About National Economic Forum

The National Economic Forum (NEF) is a non-partisan public policy think tank based in New Delhi, dedicated to advancing evidence-based solutions for India’s economic and social challenges. Located at the heart of the capital on Ferozeshah Road, NEF serves as a hub for rigorous research, policy dialogue, and stakeholder collaboration. Our mission is to drive sustainable economic growth, social equity, and inclusive development through innovative, data-driven policy recommendations that resonate at both national and global levels.

Job Summary

Research Head

Key Responsibilities

Research Strategy and Leadership

• Develop and execute a forward-looking research agenda aligned with NEF’s mission, focusing on critical areas such as economic development, circular economy, law and economic development, sustainability research, and social inclusion.
• Identify emerging policy challenges and opportunities, ensuring NEF’s research remains relevant and impactful in India’s dynamic policy landscape.
• Lead the conceptualization and design of high-impact research projects, integrating quantitative and qualitative methodologies.

Project Management and Execution

• Oversee the end-to-end execution of research projects, from scoping and methodology design to data analysis and report dissemination.
• Ensure research outputs (reports, policy briefs, working papers) are rigorous, impartial, and accessible to diverse audiences, including policymakers, industry players, and the public.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources to deliver outputs on schedule and within scope.

Team Leadership and Development

• Lead a multidisciplinary team of researchers, analysts, and fellows, fostering a culture of intellectual curiosity, collaboration, and excellence.
• Mentor early-career researchers, providing guidance on research design, publication strategies, and professional development.

Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy

• Build and maintain strategic relationships with key stakeholders, including government ministries, regulatory bodies, academic institutions, civil society organizations, and international think tanks.
• Represent NEF at high-level policy forums, conferences, and media engagements, effectively communicating research findings to influence policy debates.
• Collaborate with NEF’s communications team to develop strategies for disseminating research through op-eds, policy briefs, and digital platforms.

Quality Assurance and Thought Leadership

• Uphold the highest standards of academic rigor, objectivity, and ethical research practices across all NEF outputs.
• Author or co-author flagship reports, peer-reviewed articles, and policy papers that position NEF as a thought leader in public policy.
• Stay abreast of global and national policy trends, integrating cutting-edge methodologies and insights into NEF’s work.

Qualifications

Required

• Education:

  Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree in economics, public policy, development studies, or a closely related field.

• Experience:

  10+ years of experience in public policy research, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within a think tank, academic institution, or policy organization.

• Expertise:

  Strong track record of published research and articles in areas such as economic policy, fiscal reform, labour economics, or social development, with deep knowledge of India’s policy landscape.

• Leadership:

  Proven ability to lead and inspire diverse teams, manage complex projects, and deliver results under tight deadlines.

• Communication:

  Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with experience presenting complex ideas to policymakers, media, and non-technical audiences.

• Analytical Skills:

  Proficiency in quantitative and qualitative research methods, including econometric analysis, policy modeling, and stakeholder consultation.

Preferred

• Established network within India’s policy ecosystem, including connections with government agencies, academic institutions, or international organizations.
• Experience securing and managing research grants from national or international funding bodies.
• Proficiency in any data analysis tool such as Stata, R, SPSS, or MATLAB.
• Prior experience engaging with Indian media outlets or contributing to public policy debates through op-eds, interviews, or panel discussions.
• Familiarity with India-specific policy issues, such as GST, rural development, sustainability goals, climate change or digital economy initiatives.

Why Join NEF?

• Impact:

  Shape India’s policy landscape by leading transformative research that addresses pressing economic and social challenges.

• Location:

  Work from our office on Ferozeshah Road, New Delhi, in the heart of India’s policy and governance hub. 

• Collaboration:

  Join a dynamic team of researchers, analysts, and policy experts committed to excellence and innovation.

• Professional Growth:

  Access opportunities for thought leadership, international collaboration, and professional development through conferences, workshops, and partnerships.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit the following via mail (at application@nationaleconomicforum.in):

1. A detailed resume highlighting relevant experience and publications.
2. A cover letter (maximum 2 pages) outlining your vision for leading NEF’s research agenda, your qualifications, and your alignment with our mission.
3. Two samples of recent research or published work.

Application Deadline:

Contact:

The National Economic Forum is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourage applications from all qualified candidates.