Research Associates

NCAER’s National Data Innovation Centre is hiring two Research Associates for one-year extendable roles. Candidates need a Master’s in Economics, Statistics, or Demography and advanced Stata skills. The role involves analyzing large-scale socio-economic datasets to influence policy. Apply by February 15, 2026, with a CV and three references to hr@ncaer.org.

2/5/20261 min read

NCAER NDIC Career Opportunity: Hiring Research Associates for 2026

The National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER), specifically through its National Data Innovation Centre (NDIC), has announced an opening for the position of Research Associate (RA). This is a premier opportunity for data-driven professionals to contribute to high-impact research in human development and public policy.

If you are passionate about using statistical rigor to solve real-world socio-economic challenges, this role offers a platform to work with one of India's oldest and most prestigious economic policy think tanks.

Role Overview: Impacting Human Development

The selected Research Associates will engage in rigorous data analysis and the preparation of policy-relevant outputs. The work focuses on critical sectors that shape the future of India, including:

  • Health and Education

  • Gender and Employment

  • Mobility and Equity

  • Social Protection

Key Responsibilities

A Research Associate at NCAER NDIC is expected to handle end-to-end research tasks, such as:

  1. Literature Synthesis: Reviewing and condensing academic and policy-focused literature.

  2. Advanced Analytics: Analyzing primary and secondary datasets using sophisticated statistical methods.

  3. Reporting: Drafting data briefs, research reports, and policy recommendations.

  4. Dataset Management: Working extensively with large-scale socio-economic datasets.

  5. Collaborative Support: Assisting research teams on grant-funded and commissioned projects.

Candidate Qualifications & Skills

NCAER is looking for candidates with a strong quantitative background and a keen interest in economic research.

Criteria Requirements
Education Master’s degree in Economics, Demography, or Statistics from a reputed institution.Technical Skills Advanced proficiency in Stata and experience in applied statistics/econometrics. Experience Prior experience as a Junior Economic Analyst or RA is preferred (but not mandatory).Added Value Knowledge of GIS or mapping software is a significant advantage.Communication Strong drafting skills for academic papers and research reports.

Important Details for Applicants

  • Positions Available: 2

  • Duration: 1-year contract (extendable based on performance).

  • Compensation: Competitive and commensurate with experience.

  • Application Deadline: February 15, 2026 (Positions remain open until filled).

How to Apply

To apply, candidates must submit a detailed CV, a covering letter, and three professional references.