Senior Research Associate- WELL Labs

Position Overview

The job requires you to anchor/support the design of hypotheses, carry out field research, analyse the data and formulate insights across thematic areas in towns and metros.

WELL Labs, a center of excellence associated with IFMR/KREA University, fosters research and innovation for social impact in the areas of land and water sustainability. We collaboratively design solutions that improve human well-being and conserve the environment. We are a team of water experts, entrepreneurs, architects, social scientists, economists and communication experts, using our complementary skills to build a world that is resilient enough to deal with the ever-evolving water, environment, land and livelihood challenges our planet faces.

The Urban Water program designs pathways towards water secure and flood resistant urban landscapes. We do this by enabling effective decision making, and building coalitions between governments, market players and communities. By 2035, we will enable the transformation of Bengaluru & ten towns to become water resilient.

Responsibilities 

Project Research, Reporting and Knowledge

• Carry out primary and secondary research for the program e.g. vulnerable communities to identify their water security problems and aspirations for the future, analysing water, sanitation, and wastewater challenges in Bengaluru.

• Structure interviews/surveys and field work schedule.

• Design and implementation of primary survey tools, interpret scope and findings.

• Drawing out insights, contribute towards converting research into reports, blogs, or any other knowledge output.

• Support in conducting project-related fieldwork (travel to other towns in Karnataka).

• Displaying specialized skills like GIS mapping and visualizations that add value to the team and build skills in others.

• Hire, mentor and manage team members as and when required.

Partner Engagement

• Prepare and analyse stakeholder journey maps through discussions with government and non-government stakeholders in the project focus locations

• Support in building and managing relationships with key stakeholders in the water and wastewater space, primarily in Bengaluru and Karnataka.

Thought Leadership

• Displaying ability to conceptualize ideas relating to water equity through holistic water management.

Impact Delivery

At WELL Labs, we use the Objectives and Key Results (OKR) framework as a goal-setting method that helps the organization, teams, and individuals achieve their objectives. We expect people joining our team to align with our impact-oriented delivery mindset. You shall be expected to:

• Key results include sole responsibility for at 1-3 outward facing deliverables in projects.

• Execute project strategy to deliver OKRs for the organisation.

• Set and manage your own monthly goals in line with individual OKRs and for interns as and when associated.

Qualifications, Experience and Eligibility

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, Planning, Water Resources Engineering, Environmental Sciences, or a related field. Masters in related streams is a plus.

• 5-6 years of relevant full-time work experience.

• Communication in Kannada and/or Telugu is essential.

• Ability to analyze and interpret data sets, knowledge on research methodologies is preferred.

• Prior experience in liaising with government departments.

• Anchor key stakeholder relationships within the government and community.

• Familiarity or interest in institutional frameworks and governance.

• Knowledge of urban sanitation and wastewater systems.

• Experience in working in Bengaluru and nearby regions will be an added advantage.

• Excellent client-facing and internal communication skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office.

• Willingness to travel for projects and various connects/conferences

Location: Bengaluru

Join Us: Be part of a dynamic team dedicated to pioneering solutions for global water and wastewater challenges. IFMR’s recruitment and employment policies are inclusive. We respect both the spirit and letter of the laws of equal employment opportunity.

Compensation: The salary will be commensurate with the qualifications and experience

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