Associate - 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 looking for an early-career researcher and policy professional to join our Research and Advocacy team, working at the intersection of digital technologies and development justice. This role is for a professional with at least two years of relevant experience who is excited to work at the cutting edge of emerging technologies and development justice in the Global South. 

The ideal candidate for this position is a curious and motivated self-starter with a keen interest in using research to influence policy discourse and public narratives on emerging technologies. A commitment to social justice and equity is essential.

This is a full-time position in Bengaluru, with travel for research and policy engagement activities, as required. 

• A master's degree in public policy, law, economics, sociology, development studies, international relations, political science, or related fields
• A minimum of two years of relevant professional experience
• Excellent writing and analytical skills, with the ability to translate complex findings into actionable insights for policymakers, civil society, academia, and other stakeholders
• Demonstrated interest in technology policy, digital governance, AI, and development, with the capacity to translate findings across multiple thematic areas 
• Familiarity with political economy, development justice frameworks, and Global South thought leadership 
• Ability to work collaboratively across networks and interdisciplinary teams 
• Fluency in English and at least one additional Indian language (Kannada, Tamil, Hindi preferred) 

• Creative approaches to research communication and public engagement
• Experience contributing to policy processes, campaigns, or public discourse
• Independent thinking combined with openness to collaboration

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, 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: 

Research:

1. Contribute to original research and analysis on issues related to data, platform, and AI governance 
2. Undertake literature reviews, data collection, stakeholder mapping, and other research activities
3. Produce research outputs, including reports, policy briefs, background papers, explainers, and other public-facing commentary 
4. Track developments in technology policy, digital governance, and related geopolitical and geoeconomic debates
5. Contribute to drafting submissions, consultations, and responses to policy developments 

Events and external engagements: 

1. Organize workshops, panels, conferences and other events 
2. Support outreach, coordination, and relationship-building with researchers, policymakers, civil society actors, and allied stakeholders
3. Represent the organization in external workshops, consultations, conferences, and convenings 

Project administration: 

1. Manage day-to-day administrative tasks pertaining to the implementation of research and advocacy projects
2. Track deliverables, timelines, and facilitate clear communication across teams
3. Maintain project calendars, anticipate reporting timelines, and assist in the preparation of project reports 

• An environment shaped by a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and supportive cohort of researchers
• The opportunity to engage deeply in research and advocacy on the most pressing issue of our times 
• 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: 22 June 2026