Job Title

Research Associate / Research Lead Job LocationTamil NaduAbout the RoleAt Voice of Commons, we welcome individuals who are passionate about leveraging their skills and creativity to advocate for the marginalized. If you believe your expertise can contribute effectively to our mission and support our partnering leaders, political parties, and like-minded organizations, we encourage you to explore this opportunity with us.As a Social/Policy or Legal Researcher, you will play a critical role in producing high-quality, evidence-based insights to guide political strategy, legislative advocacy, and campaign direction. Your work will directly inform leadership decisions and contribute to amplifying the voices of marginalized communities.You will collaborate with campaign professionals, policy analysts, and social leaders to craft research that is both actionable and rooted in academic rigor. This is a unique opportunity to influence progressive politics through thoughtful scholarship and strategic policy framing.Key ResponsibilitiesConduct primary and secondary research on key socio-political, legal, and policy issues impacting marginalized communities.Produce detailed content pieces such as articles, briefing notes, legal memos, and policy reports to support party leadership and allied social movements.Analyze legislative developments and assess their implications for the stateSimplify complex academic and legal material into accessible content for use in campaigns and grassroots mobilization.Work closely with political stakeholders to integrate research findings into messaging, strategy, and campaign development.Identify emerging issues, risks, and opportunities within political and legal frameworks relevant to the organization’s mission.Ensure methodological soundness, data integrity, and ethical standards in all research activitiesQualificationsBachelors, Master’s or Ph.D. or equivalent research degree in Law, Public Policy, Political Science, Social Sciences, or related disciplines, preferably from a reputed institution.2–10 years of full-time or part-time experience in consultancies, research organisations, media or NGOsProven experience in conducting original research in social sciences, law, or public policy—preferably in collaboration with think tanks, academic institutions or media houses. Journalistically exploratory work experience will be considered.Demonstrated ability to synthesize complex information into clear, actionable insights.Strong academic writing, policy analysis, and documentation skills.Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and/or data analysis tools (R Studio, STATA, GIS)  is desirable.Proficiency in Tamil & English is mandatoryAdditional RequirementsDeep alignment with the organization's values of social justice, equality and democratic transformationAbility to think beyond specific schools of principles and biasesAbility to work independently and manage multiple research assignments in a fast-paced environment.Willingness to communicate physically and telephonically with a wide range of stakeholdersFlexibility to work extended hours and travel across Tamil Nadu, based on campaign needs.Job LocationTamil NaduCompensationCompetitive, based on experience and qualifications.Equal Opportunity StatementVoice of Commons is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all qualified applicants receive fair consideration for employment without discrimination based on age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected under applicable local laws and regulations.