Brief Description of the Project

WELL Labs seeks skilled and motivated research personnel to join the Sustainable Transition Explorations in Water and Agriculture for Resilient Dryland Systems (STEWARDS) project.

The project addresses the critical need to identify equitable, sustainable and climate-resilient development pathways in tropical drylands. Alongside research being undertaken in the Sahel (Niger/Nigeria) and central Tanzania, STEWARDS is establishing ‘Transformational Labs’ (T-Labs) – collaborative spaces where people take an active role in co-developing sustainable, equitable pathways – in Chikkaballapur and Raichur districts located in peninsular India.

STEWARDS is solutions-focused, transdisciplinary and novel as it will and consists of three work packages: (1) co-construct narratives of water management based on video diaries and interviews and train ‘para-hydrogeologists’ in the community to collect and analyze data for local action; (2) use the narratives and data to build models that generate disaggregated, technically and socially ‘plausible’ pathways; and (3) engage with key change makers to ensure the research gets embedded in wider policy processes and communities of practice.

Specific Responsibilities Include

• Work closely with work package 1 lead, with field coordinators and WELL Lab Initiatives working in both Raichur and Chikkaballapur. Coordinate within work package 1 and be a liaison between work packages 1 and 2.
• Execute the inception and development of research for impact using the transformation labs methodology and toolkit
• Conduct data crunching and analysis of field data, develop mind maps, narratives, scenarios, and other innovative outputs derived from qualitative and quantitative data through iterative processes.
• Travel to the field sites to oversee data collection and quality assurance throughout the project life cycle and mentor junior researchers.
• Conduct quick or detailed literature search, on various themes or topics relevant to the project as required and prepare review reports of the same. Contributing to all relevant research outputs as required.
• Support the lead[s] and project management in research related reporting, completion of deliverables and donor compliance.

Required Qualifications, Experience, Knowledge, Skill Sets and Competencies:

• Full proficiency in Kannada is a must.
• The person is required to be based out of Bangalore, and frequently travel to study sites (Chikkaballapur, Raichur)
• Master’s degree in social or natural sciences related to environment, natural resources, Agriculture, development, economics, rural and urban studies or related fields with 3 – 5 years of working experience in field research, reporting, knowledge translation and dissemination is required.
• Demonstrable experience of conducting research as well as preparing research reports and publications.
• Good command over both qualitative and quantitative research approaches and methods. Knowledge about commonly applied research methods, approaches and frameworks.
• Hands-on experience on computers and other technological aids, including on data search, analysis and management software and applications.

Competencies Required:

• Accountability: takes responsibility for assigned work activities and personal actions; implements decisions that have been agreed upon; maintains confidentiality with sensitive information; acknowledges and learns from mistakes; meets deadlines.
• Adaptability: learns new skills, successfully works with new colleagues; professionally deals with personal discomfort in a changing work environment; willing to be flexible.
• Initiative: self-motivated; understands how one’s own actions relate to the organization(s)’ and initiatives strategic goals.
• Managing Resources: allocates time and resources efficiently and effectively; prioritizes work and delegates as appropriate.
• Valuing Diversity: treats all individuals fairly and respectfully, works effectively with others, regardless of their background, position, or status; is able to recognize and respect team members coming from different technical backgrounds; respects different values and viewpoints.
• Working Collaboratively: works in a collaborative manner with others, cooperating in both interpersonal and team relationships; builds healthy partnerships with others.
• Clear Communication: expresses oneself clearly and effectively; listens attentively; shares information in a timely manner.

Joining date: As soon as possible

Location: WELL Labs Office, Bengaluru, Karnataka

Compensation: Commensurate with industry standards.

WELL Lab’s recruitment and employment policies are inclusive. We respect both the spirit and letter of the laws of equal employment opportunity. Interested candidates should apply through the link provided. The position will remain open until 31st August 2024.