India Foundation Research Associate & Research Assistant Positions 2026

India Foundation has opened applications for Research Associate and Research Assistant positions under its Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Project, with a deadline set for 15 June 2026.

This opportunity is designed for early-career researchers interested in policy research, Indian knowledge traditions, philosophy, culture, history, governance, and interdisciplinary studies. The programme focuses on building structured research output that contributes to academic discourse and policy understanding around India’s indigenous knowledge systems.

The roles are based within a think tank research environment, where selected candidates will support high-level research, publications, documentation, and knowledge dissemination activities.

Programme Overview

Position Titles: Research Associate / Research Assistant
Organisation: India Foundation
Project: Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Project
Location: India (likely New Delhi or hybrid depending on role)
Application Deadline: 15 June 2026
Employment Type: Full-time or contractual research positions
Focus Area: Indian Knowledge Systems, policy research, cultural studies

The Indian Knowledge Systems Project aims to document, analyze, and promote India’s traditional knowledge frameworks across disciplines such as philosophy, science, governance, linguistics, and cultural studies.

About India Foundation

India Foundation is a policy research think tank that focuses on governance, foreign policy, development, and civilizational studies. It engages in research, publications, conferences, and policy dialogues that influence academic and policy discussions in India and globally.

Through the Indian Knowledge Systems initiative, the organization seeks to reconnect modern policy and research frameworks with India’s historical intellectual traditions.

Key Responsibilities

Selected Research Associates and Assistants will support various research activities including:

Conducting primary and secondary research on Indian Knowledge Systems
Assisting in preparation of research papers, reports, and policy briefs
Collecting and organizing academic and historical data
Supporting documentation of traditional knowledge frameworks
Assisting in editing, proofreading, and publication processes
Contributing to conferences, workshops, and academic discussions
Engaging with scholars and subject experts in relevant fields

The role requires strong research discipline and attention to detail.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in humanities, social sciences, law, philosophy, history, political science, or related disciplines
Strong academic writing and research skills
Interest in Indian Knowledge Systems, culture, governance, or policy studies
Ability to analyse complex texts and academic material
Strong communication and documentation skills
Ability to work independently and in research teams
Prior research experience is preferred but not mandatory for assistant roles

For Research Associate positions, a Master’s degree or higher is usually preferred.

Skills Required

Strong research and analytical thinking ability
Academic writing and referencing skills
Familiarity with historical and cultural research methods
Attention to detail in documentation
Ability to work with large volumes of academic content
Good organizational and communication skills

Benefits of the Role

Opportunity to work with a leading policy think tank
Exposure to academic and policy research environments
Experience in publishing research papers and policy briefs
Networking with scholars and experts in Indian Knowledge Systems
Career development in research, academia, or policy analysis
Hands-on experience in structured think tank research projects

Selection Process

The recruitment process typically includes:

Application screening based on academic background
Shortlisting of candidates
Written assessment or research task (if required)
Interview with research team members
Final selection based on research capability and subject interest

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Required Documents

Applicants are expected to submit:

Updated CV or résumé
Academic transcripts
Writing sample or research paper (if available)
Cover letter or statement of interest
Identification documents (if requested)

A strong writing sample can significantly improve chances of selection.

Application Timeline

Application Opening: Ongoing (2026 intake)
Application Deadline: 15 June 2026
Shortlisting Period: June–July 2026
Final Selection: Shortly after interviews

Early applications are encouraged due to competitive selection.

Why This Opportunity Matters

This position is valuable for individuals interested in research careers because it provides early exposure to think tank operations, academic publishing, and policy research. It also offers a platform to contribute to the growing field of Indian Knowledge Systems, which is gaining attention in academic and policy circles.

Successful candidates often progress into careers in:
Research institutions
Policy think tanks
Academic research and teaching
Government advisory roles
Cultural and heritage research organisations

FAQs

What is the Indian Knowledge Systems Project?

It is a research initiative focused on documenting and analysing India’s traditional knowledge systems across multiple disciplines.

Who can apply?

Graduates and postgraduates in humanities, social sciences, law, and related fields.

Is prior experience required?

Not mandatory for Research Assistant roles, but preferred for Research Associate positions.

Is this a full-time job?

Yes, it is typically a full-time or contractual research role.

What is the deadline?

The application deadline is 15 June 2026.

What skills are important?

Research ability, academic writing, analytical thinking, and subject interest in Indian Knowledge Systems.

Application Link (Official)

👉 https://indiafoundation.in/careers/

Conclusion

The India Foundation Research Associate and Research Assistant positions under the Indian Knowledge Systems Project 2026 offer a strong opportunity for early-career researchers to gain experience in policy research and academic writing. With a focus on culture, governance, and indigenous knowledge systems, this role is ideal for individuals seeking careers in research, academia, or think tanks.