Researcher - PDRC Dissemination

Function: Bharti Institute of Public Policy

Location: Mohali

Reports to Position: Policy Director

Reportees to Position: None

Band: FT

Job Purpose

The Researcher will support the development of all academic and content-driven outputs under the next phase of the Platform for Development Research and Communication (PDRC). This includes drafting policy briefs, preparing teaching case studies, developing summaries and translation-ready material, supporting documentary scripts, and providing academic inputs for dissemination events.
The role requires strong research, writing, analytical, and coordination skills, with the ability to work across multiple themes and outputs within the project timeline (November 2025 – December 2026). The position also includes supporting Bharti Institute’s emerging efforts to integrate AI-assisted content generation and developing internal processes that leverage Large Language Models (LLMs) for producing high-quality derivative knowledge products.

Job Outline

The Platform for Development Research and Communication (PDRC) has produced six comprehensive Human Development volumes, synthesising key insights across areas such as nutrition, health, school education, institutions of social development, climate, and rural prosperity. The next phase focuses on translating these volumes into accessible and high-impact knowledge products that can reach policymakers, practitioners, academics, and the wider public.
As part of this effort, the project will produce policy briefs, teaching case studies, vernacular translations, video documentaries, digital communication assets, and event-related academic content. The Researcher will play a critical role in ensuring the academic rigour, clarity, and coherence of all content created as part of this dissemination process. A key component of the role will be to support the development of AI-enabled workflows, enabling Bharti Institute of Public Policy to customise LLMs for generating derivative content from the volumes and future research outputs.

The successful candidate will carry out the following activities:

• Development of Knowledge Products: Draft and contribute to the development of policy briefs, teaching case studies, chapter summaries, thematic notes, and translation-ready materials derived from the six Human Development volumes. Ensure that content is grounded in evidence, easy to understand, and aligned with project themes.
• Research, Analysis & Content Synthesis: Conduct background research, review volume chapters, analyse data where required, and synthesise key insights across themes. Prepare briefs, concept notes, and explanatory content to support dissemination activities. Cross-check facts, verify references, and ensure academic accuracy.
• Support for Video Documentaries & Media Content: Collaborate with media institutions (AJK MCRC, Srishti Manipal) by preparing script inputs, research notes, fact-checking, and ensuring thematic alignment of video narratives with the volumes. Provide supporting text, key messages, and background information for AV content.
• Academic Support for Events: Prepare speaker briefs, talking points, panel background notes, event summaries, and thematic outlines for the National Launch, Regional Panels, and webinars. Work closely with the Event Manager and Project Manager to ensure all academic content for events is accurate, relevant, and aligned with dissemination goals. Provide on-ground academic support during the events.
• Coordination with Communications & Design Team: Work with the Communications & Design Cluster to develop content for infographics, social media posts, AV explainers, and promotional materials. Provide clear and accurate academic inputs that can be used to create engaging digital and print communication assets.

Job Specifications

Knowledge / Education:

• Master’s degree in Public Policy, Economics, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or related fields.

Specific Skills:

• Strong research and analytical ability.
• Excellent writing, summarisation, and synthesis skills.
• Ability to translate complex ideas into accessible formats.
• Strong attention to detail and academic rigor.
• Ability to work with media, design, and multi-stakeholder teams.
• Comfort with digital content development.

Desirable Experience:

• At least 3 years of relevant professional research experience. Candidates with substantially higher experience are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Experience in academic writing, policy analysis, multi-stakeholder research, or preparing policy-oriented content is preferred.
• Experience producing dissemination-focused or content-heavy outputs is an advantage.
Interest or experience in using AI tools (LLMs, automation or text generation systems) is highly desirable.

Note: AI-enabled content generation, LLM-based drafting, and process automation are cross-cutting responsibilities integrated across all tasks listed above.

How to Apply?

All applications must be submitted exclusively through the JotForm link provided below. The form includes a drop-down menu where applicants can select the specific position they are applying for and fill in the required details accordingly. Applicants are required to upload their CV and cover letter directly within the form at the designated sections.
JotForm Link:

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.