Careers at Takshashila
Working With Us
“While finishing my Master’s degree, I was looking for a place to work on innovative research ideas. An acquaintance suggested The Takshashila Institution. As I read about the projects and people, I was convinced to begin my second innings as a professional at Takshashila. After a rigorous selection process, I was selected as a Research Analyst (China Studies) in September 2021. A distinct departure from the rigid cubicle structure, Takshashila Institution’s workspace comes alive with hundreds of books. It truly represents the space ideal for thinkers and visionaries, a reflection of its vision and mission. As a research analyst, I received abundant guidance from seniors and co‑workers to finalize my research direction. I was encouraged to present thoughts and research outputs engagingly. I have built lasting and transformative relationships during my time here.”
“The Takshashila Institution served as my first foray into the public policy space (as a GCPP student and subsequently as a research analyst). I owe everyone there for taking a chance on me based on my interests and my half‑baked policy knowledge! Throughout my time, I learned to hone my research, writing, and communication skills helping me grow as an individual and a policy professional. I used to read a book a week before joining Takshashila as a researcher. I’m happy to say that ever since then, Takshashila has kept me on my toes, led me to so many information sources, and ensured that I’ve never gotten back into the ‘book a week’ mode again. The conversations and the discussions at Takshashila expanded my horizons compared to any book! There’s always something interesting to think about, analyse and find answers to! What’s the use of working in a think tank otherwise? :)”
“Takshashila has always felt like home to me. From my time as a student to my tenure as an employee, the journey has been immensely influential in sculpting my career. It’s a place where you’re encouraged to voice your thoughts, put your ideas to the test, and then take the helm in bringing those ideas to life. The unique blend of opportunities like the All Things Podcast, Tankscrib, mentorship from senior members, and the engaging policy school, all embedded within an open culture, forms an ideal launchpad for career advancement. To me, it will always remain a cherished home, a place where I’ve not only built my career but also shaped my character.”
“I started as a cub researcher at The Takshashila Institution’s China Research Programme and ventured into researching the Chinese People’s Liberation Army under the guidance and supervision of Mr Manoj Kewalramani. Researching at Takshashila was a life‑changing experience. Not only did Takshashila allow me to study the PLA, which as a discipline is unfortunately still not studied in India, but it also granted me the freedom to select my research projects and pursue them in a manner I see fit. Takshashila gives freedom to a researcher to explore their ideas and justify their arguments. The values and work ethic that I have developed throughout working at Takshashila will always be a cornerstone of my professional life, and I hope that I will be able to pass them on to the next generation of young scholars, contributing to growing the Takshashila family.”
Job Openings
Job Description: Assistant Communications Manager
-Location: Bengaluru
-Type: Full-time
About the Role:
Most policy research gets read by other policy people and basically nobody else. The Takshashila Institution wants an Assistant Communications Manager who’s bothered by that and wants to fix it.
You’ll handle the day-to-day of how Takshashila actually reaches people: writing reel scripts, managing the podcast pipeline, keeping social media running, and making sure research doesn’t just sit in a report nobody outside the policy world ever opens. Some days that means a quick clip explaining a new AI regulation, other days it’s coordinating events for a major conference. You won’t be starting from scratch (we’ve got systems and a team to work with), but you’ll need to bring your own instincts for what makes people stop and pay attention.
If you’ve ever watched a genuinely important story get buried because nobody explained it well, and thought “I could do better than that,” this role is for you.
Key Responsibilities:
Content & Messaging
Content Development: Draft, edit, and proofread communications material, including press releases, newsletters, blog posts, social media content, and website copy.
Brand Consistency: Ensure all external communications align with Takshashila’s tone, voice, and visual identity guidelines.
Translating Research: Work with researchers and programme teams to convert policy research and reports into clear, audience-friendly content for public consumption.
Media & Public Relations
Media Monitoring: Track media coverage and mentions of the Institution, and prepare regular media reports for internal stakeholders.
Event Communications: Assist in planning and executing communications around key Institutional events, including conferences and webinars.
Stakeholder Coordination
Internal Coordination: Act as a liaison between the Communications team and other departments to gather updates, plan announcements, and ensure the timely dissemination of information.
External Relations: Assist in maintaining relationships with media partners, design vendors, and other external collaborators supporting communications efforts.
What We’re Looking For:
Educational Background: A degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, Media Studies, or a related field is preferred.
Experience: 1-2 years of experience in communications, content writing, or a related field, ideally within a think tank, media organisation, or non-profit, is preferred.
Writing & Editing: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to write for diverse audiences and formats — equally comfortable with a punchy caption and a press-ready quote.
Digital Literacy: Familiarity with social media platforms, basic design tools (e.g., Canva), and CapCut or Adobe Premiere Pro.
Organisational Skills: Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously, without dropping the ball on any of them.
Basic knowledge of/and willingness to use AI tools like Claude, Gemini, ChatGPT
How to Apply: Make a reel, under 60 seconds, in any format you want: a pitch, a story, a character, a bit, whatever gets the idea across. The brief is simple: show us you can make a serious idea land with someone who has a 3-second attention span and zero patience for jargon. Pick any topic Takshashila researches, tech, defence, foreign policy, economics, AI, and keep it original, no reused templates or trends without your own spin. Interested candidates should apply through this form. Attach your portfolio and the reel as well.
No email applications are accepted. If you have any queries, please write to publications@takshashila.org.in.
Job Description: Programme Manager – Network for Advanced Study of Law Enforcement & Policing (NAS - LEP)
Location: Bengaluru
Type: Full-time
About the Role:
The Takshashila Institution is looking for a dynamic and organised Programme Manager to lead the execution and growth of the Network for Advanced Study of Law Enforcement and Policing (NAS-LEP). This fellowship is a premier initiative designed to support serving and retired police officers, journalists, tech professionals, and legal experts in conducting original research to upgrade India’s law enforcement system.
As the fellowship is currently in its second cohort, the fundamental operational processes and frameworks are already well-established. The incoming Programme Manager will focus on ensuring the continuity, refinement, and strategic growth of the programme. The Programme Manager will be the backbone of the fellowship, ensuring its smooth operational delivery while actively contributing to the intellectual discourse on policing, technology in law enforcement, and criminal justice reform.
Key Responsibilities:
Fellowship Operations & Management
End-to-End Coordination: Manage the entire lifecycle of the fellowship, from the application process and selection interviews to the final submission of policy briefs. - Academic Calendar Management: Coordinate masterclasses, mentor-fellow meetings, and guest webinars. Ensure all stakeholders (Fellows and Faculty) are aligned with the timeline.
Event Planning: Lead the organisation of key fellowship events, including the Fellowship Hackathons and the LEPF Academic Conference.
Stakeholder Relations: Act as the primary point of contact for Fellows, providing guidance and administrative support. Build and nurture strong, professional relationships with senior law enforcement officers and leadership within the police forces to ensure the fellowship’s relevance and reach. Maintain relationships with key stakeholders and institutional partners such as the Indian Police Foundation (IPF)
Research
Thematic Oversight: Stay updated on core fellowship themes, including the impact of technology on policing (surveillance, forensics, cybercrime), forensic science frameworks, and community policing.
Core Research: Conduct independent, evidence-based, and high-quality research on themes situated at the intersection of technology and law enforcement, such as digital forensics, AI in policing, and data privacy.
Required Qualifications & Skills:
Educational Background: A degree in Public Policy, Law, Criminology, Political Science, Economics, or a related field is preferred.
Experience: 2-3 years of experience in programme management, ideally within a think tank, academic institution, or research organisation, is preferred.
Operational Excellence: Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple workstreams and deadlines simultaneously.
A keen interest in public policy and the ability to engage with complex topics like digital forensics, criminal law, and institutional reform.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should apply through this Hiring form
No email applications are accepted. If you have any queries, please write to lepf@takshashila.org.in
Job Description – Research Analyst Geospatial Research Programme
Position/Programme: Research Analyst /Geospatial Research Programme
Location: Takshashila Institution, Bangalore
Employment Type: Full-Time
Remuneration: As per the Institution’s policy
About Takshashila Institution and Programme: The Takshashila Institution is an independent, nonpartisan think tank and public policy school based in Bangalore, India. One of the institution’s foremost initiatives is the geospatial research programme, which concentrates on applying geospatial tools and methodologies to India’s strategic affairs.
Role Overview: We seek a motivated and skilled Research Analyst to join our unique Geospatial Research Programme, which is doing pioneering work in the field of geospatial intelligence. This role offers a unique opportunity to develop and expand your expertise in geospatial tools and techniques. A relevant degree in related fields is necessary, and prior experience in similar roles is highly preferable.
Preferences: Candidates with an interest in defence, international studies, or geospatial policy research in addition to necessary geospatial skills will be preferred.
Key Responsibilities:
Research and Analysis:
Conduct in-depth research on geospatial intelligence and related topics.
Analyse spatial data using geospatial tools and techniques.
Develop comprehensive reports and presentations based on research findings.
Collaborate with senior researchers and contribute to policy papers and publications.
Data Management:
Collect, process, and manage geospatial data from various sources.
Ensure data quality and accuracy through rigorous validation techniques.
Maintain databases and documentation for geospatial research projects.
Tool Utilisation:
Utilise geospatial software (e.g., GIS, remote sensing tools) for data analysis and visualisation.
Stay updated with the latest developments in geospatial technology and incorporate new tools and methods into research workflows.
Collaboration and Communication:
Work closely with multidisciplinary teams within the institution.
Communicate research findings effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Assist in organising workshops, seminars, and conferences related to geospatial research.
Qualifications:
Educational Background:
A degree in Geography, Geospatial Science, Environmental Science, Urban Planning, or a related field.
Advanced degrees or certifications in geospatial technologies are a plus.
Technical Skills:
Proficiency in geospatial tools such as GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS), remote sensing tools, and spatial data analysis software.
Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret complex geospatial data.
Experience with programming languages (e.g., Python, R) for geospatial analysis is desirable.
Experience:
Prior experience in a research analyst role or similar positions involving geospatial data analysis and research.
Demonstrated experience in producing high-quality research outputs and publications.
Soft Skills:
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong organisational and time-management abilities.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
Application Process: Interested candidates should submit the following documents
Resume/CV: Detailing academic background, work experience, and technical skills.
Cover Letter: Explaining your interest in the position and how your skills and experiences align with the role.
Sample Work: Examples of previous research or geospatial analysis projects.