Job Opportunity for Tech-Policy Researcher at IT for Change in Bengaluru

Location: Bengaluru, India

IT for Change is looking to recruit policy researchers with a technical background for its research and policy advocacy. We are looking for a candidate with a robust understanding of technology governance debates, especially the design and development of inclusive and accountable data and AI systems that further social policy objectives.

The Tech-Policy Research Associate will play an active role in two tracks:

• Intelligent Infrastructures – Focusing on policy debates about platform, data, and AI governance in relation to emerging digital infrastructures underpinning the economy, society, and public administration.
• Alternative Platform Models – Focusing on design and policy directions – techno-institutional norms, principles, and pathways – for non-extractivist platform infrastructures.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Providing research support on tech-design and regulation of digital infrastructures for research reports, blogs, advocacy statements, and organizational interventions in policy spaces.
• Supporting the organization’s ongoing efforts with government agencies to develop innovative platform and data architectures for livelihood programs and social security schemes.
• Writing explainers, policy briefs, and media pieces demystifying topical data and AI policy developments for civil society constituencies.
• Assisting with organizing and executing policy events and attending/presenting at national and international advocacy events.

Interested candidates must have:

• A Bachelor’s degree in any engineering discipline (including but not limited to Computer Science or Information Technology).
• A Master’s degree in social sciences, public policy, or law OR 2-3 years of experience working with public sector organizations in technology research or consulting roles.  
• Excellent technical and academic writing skills, with a comfort in working in interdisciplinary teams and an eagerness to grapple with debates on the sociology and political economy of technology.

How to apply

Interested candidates should apply to jobs-Policy-Researchers[at]itforchange[dot]net, with a CV and a writing sample/portfolio. The subject line should be ‘Tech-Policy Researcher’.
Designation and remuneration will be commensurate with prior experience and qualifications.