The Centre for Economic Growth invites applications for Research Associates to support its research and advisory work. These positions are intended for early-career economists or quantitatively trained policy researchers who want to develop in a demanding, policy-oriented research environment. The selected candidates will work closely with senior staff on data analysis, background research, project delivery, and dissemination.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Undertake data management, statistical analysis, literature reviews, preparation of background notes, and other analytical tasks for CEG projects.
  • Support the preparation of state and sector/thematic diagnostics, policy briefs, presentations, and other written outputs.
  • Assist with project management tasks, including tracking timelines, coordinating inputs, preparing meeting materials, and documenting follow-up actions.
  • Help develop and maintain datasets, code, and research documentation in line with good reproducibility standards.
  • Contribute to workshops, consultations, and dissemination activities by preparing briefs, summaries, and presentation material.
  • Work closely with Fellows and senior staff to strengthen technical skills, policy understanding, and research writing. 

Qualificatons and Skills

  • Master’s degree in Economics, Public Policy, Statistics, Data Science, or a closely related field. Candidates close to completion of a PhD may also be considered.
  • Strong quantitative skills and familiarity with one or more statistical packages such as Stata, R, Python, and AI tools.
  • Excellent written English and the ability to present analytical material clearly and succinctly.
  • Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks under tight timelines.
  • A demonstrated interest in India’s growth, productivity, jobs, trade, urban development, and related public policy challenges.

Desirable attributes

  • Experience with administrative or large survey datasets, research assistance, or policy-oriented internships would be an advantage.
  • Familiarity with use of agentic AI would be valuable.
  • Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint would be critical for documentation and presentation support.

Last Date: August 25, 2026. The position will remain open until filled.

Duration of Appointment: Initially for three years, with a provision for renewal.

Compensation: A salary that is commensurate with market and experience of the selected candidate. 

Appointment Term

Applicants should send a letter describing their past experience and their interest, a detailed CV, writing samples and the names of three professional references. The appointment will be on a renewable, 3-year contract. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. For fullest consideration, please apply by August 25, 2026.   

Please send your application by email at hr@ncaer.org, noting “Research Associate-CEG” in the subject line 

About NCAER

NCAER is India’s oldest and largest national, non-profit, independent economic research institute. Since 1956, NCAER has contributed high-quality research to shape policy decisions in India. It is among the few think tanks globally that have strong field data collection capabilities for national surveys; and its research covers a spectrum of policy-focused applied research in economics, from macroeconomics to poverty and infrastructure.

NCAER offers a vibrant, dynamic academic environment with both world-class faculty and physical infrastructure. If you’re stuck with a writer’s block, a stroll around our campus might be the antidote. If you want to unwind, there will always be someone willing to play a game of table tennis or badminton.

Join a visionary team that values research excellence, collaboration, and professional growth. NCAER offers a stimulating work environment where your research ideas can make a real difference.

NCAER is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences.