Lead - Research and Policy Engagement

Lead - Research and Policy Engagement 

IT for Change

Do you think digital justice is the key developmental concern of the 21st century? Does Big Tech’s unchecked power and control over global digital infrastructures worry you? Do you find yourself wishing the internet could be a better place — full of connection and solidarity instead? 

Digital governance is shaping labor markets, health systems, democratic institutions, and development pathways across the Global South. Yet the frameworks, institutions, and narratives that govern these technologies remain largely shaped by interests far removed from those most affected by them. 

At IT for Change, we are working to change that.

We are seeking to recruit a senior researcher and policy advocate to help lead and deepen our work on data, AI, and development. This position is for someone with at least six years of relevant experience. The ideal candidate will have a strong track record of research, policy engagement, and public-facing thought leadership on technology and society from a Global South standpoint. A commitment to social justice and equity is essential for this role. 

This role straddles both substantive expertise and strategic capability: the ability to produce rigorous analysis while also building networks, influencing discourse, and contributing to policy and advocacy efforts across multiple spaces. This is a full-time employment position in Bengaluru, with travel for research and policy engagement purposes. 

Essential Qualifications 

• A PhD or masters' degree in development studies, law, public policy, economics, gender studies, political science, or other allied disciplines 
• Minimum of six years of professional experience at the intersection of technology and society, with at least three years in a team lead or supervisory position
• Expertise in political economy and development justice frameworks and Global South thought leadership 
• Excellent research and writing skills, with the ability to distill complex theoretical frameworks and discourse into accessible research outputs for diverse audiences
• Demonstrated expertise with a track record of original research and publications — in digital governance and its intersections with development and human rights 
• Ability to build consensus and work effectively across networks, coalitions, and institutions
• Comfort with public speaking and engaging with diverse audiences at national and international advocacy events 
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively supervise and lead a team of early-career researchers 
• Fluency in English and at least one additional Indian language (Kannada, Tamil, or Hindi preferred) 

Responsibilities 

The thematic focus of this role includes a wide range of topics at the intersection of digitalization and society, such as:

• Data governance, platform regulation, and corporate accountability frameworks in national, regional, and international governance regimes 
• Digital public infrastructure, data justice in health systems, digitalization and the right to food, and climate justice and tech policy
• Digital futures of work, workers’ rights in the platform economy, working conditions in digital value chains, and sustainable digital infrastructures 
• Feminist perspectives on technology, society, and justice

A successful candidate will be expected to undertake the following responsibilities: 

1. Research: 
2. Lead and contribute to original research and analysis in relation to the aforementioned themes 
3. Produce high-quality research outputs, such as reports, policy briefs, essays, submissions, blog posts, media articles, and other public-facing commentary on digital issues 
4. Independently develop research tracks and shape programmatic priorities, including proposal and grant writing 
5. Track and analyze global developments in technology governance, digital political economy, and geopolitical shifts relevant to the organization’s work 

1. Network-Building: 
2. Build and sustain relationships with partner organizations, researchers, advocacy networks, and institutional stakeholders
3. Represent the organization in conferences, consultations, workshops, and public forums
4. Conceptualize and convene dialogues, workshops, and coalition spaces across sectors and geographies

1. People and Organizational Development: 
2. Mentor and support early-career researchers and contribute to collaborative and interdisciplinary ways of working
3. Co-shape the future trajectory of the organization for sustained impact and continued relevance 
4. Contribute to fundraising, proposal development, and strategic institutional initiatives 

What we offer

• The opportunity to undertake critical research and advocacy on the most pressing issue of our times 
• An environment shaped by a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and supportive cohort of researchers
• The chance to redefine and lead new frontiers in digital policy from a Global South standpoint 
• A flexible and hybrid work environment, with three in-person office days a week
• Networking opportunities through convenings, conferences, and political events 
• A competitive compensation package including health benefits, with salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. 

To apply, fill out the google form at this link: https://lnk.itforchange.net/researchhiring

Last date to apply: 22 June 2026