Research Associate/Research Analyst – Power Sector

The Centre for Social and Economic Progress (CSEP) is looking for two motivated individuals interested in conducting policy-relevant, in-depth research on the power sector.

One candidate (henceforth called “Position 1: Regulations and Discoms”) will focus on India’s power sector regulations and DISCOM performance. The other candidate (henceforth called “Position 2: Power Sector and Transition”) will have more thrust on the state of India’s power sector in general, especially from an energy transition point of view. Candidates with relevant qualifications (see below) and a keen interest in policy research may apply. Please specify which position the application is for.

CSEP is a leading not-for-profit independent research organisation, which aims in shaping policy discourse through independent and credible research. The selected two candidates will have the unique opportunity to work with some of the leading minds in the given research space, and make a positive impact on India’s energy policy.

Eligibility

Common criteria for Position 1 and Position 2:

• Advanced academic degree (Master’s or PhD) in Electrical, Mechanical, Power Electronics, Power System, or other relevant streams. Degree (Master’s or PhD) in Economics with quality working experience in the power sector will also be considered.
• Minimum 3 years’ relevant professional experience, ideally with thinktanks, academia, in policy-related consulting, or policy-relevant research in industry (not the typical market research). Relaxation of the work experience requirement may be considered for a candidate with PhD in relevant domain.
• Strong analytical and writing skills, preferably demonstrated in relevant and recent publications (blogs, non-research articles and other types of grey literature do not qualify), are essential.
• Ability to work autonomously, collaborate with colleagues across domains and timely delivery of quality research outputs.
• Effective communication and strong interpersonal skills.
• Base location: New Delhi.
• Willingness to travel outside National Capital Region.

Additional criteria for Position 1: Regulations and Discoms

• In-depth understanding, backed by quality experience in policy research, of India’s regulatory landscape (both at central and state levels) and the functioning and performance (operational, financial, compliance and readiness) of DISCOMs is required. The candidate is expected to have more than just general knowledge of the space. One should be able to analyse the evolution and implications of the regulations as well as the underlying factors/causes (like tariff design and tariff-setting) for the past and current performance of a DISCOMs and other utilities.
• Overall understanding of the state of India’s power sector is essential.
• Experience in carrying out cross-country comparative analysis regarding electricity sector regulations is very much desired.
• Awareness and understanding of the recent key developments in the relevant space in India and globally are expected.

Additional criteria for Position 2: Power Sector and Transition

• Quality experience in undertaking policy research on India’s power sector, particularly related to load and grid management and energy transition, is required. One should be able to analyse issues like load curves, time-of-day energy supply/demand, renewable energy integration, stationary battery energy storage system, demand response, etc. along with relevant regulations.
• Experience in conducting data-driven assessment using analytical platforms (e.g., using Python of specific common tools) to derive policy-relevant insights is essential.
• Experience in carrying out cross-country comparison on the above-mentioned issues is very much desired.
• Awareness and understanding of the recent key developments in power sector in India and globally are expected.

Key Responsibilities

The researchers’ responsibilities span the following threads of effort:

• Undertaking detailed policy-relevant research supported by insightful data-driven analysis of techno-economic nature on issues as specifically highlighted above for each of the positions.
• Tracking closely the developments in the energy policy space in context of India and globally.
• Contributing to research outputs (working papers, discussion papers, technical papers, PowerPoint presentations, research blogs, op-eds, etc.).
• Engaging with various stakeholders including the government, the industry, the civil society, etc.
• Supporting dissemination and outreach initiatives.

Only candidates meeting the given criteria are urged to apply. Designations offered to the selected candidates will be determined based on experience, qualification, and competence. More advanced candidates will be considered for a Research Associate position. Exceptional, advanced candidates with a proven track record in relevant research and publications, with additional years of experience, may be considered for an Associate Fellow position.  

Application Process

Interested candidates are requested to submit their resumés and letters of motivation by January 15, 2026. Click here to apply

Candidates will be interviewed on a rolling basis; hence, they are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Due to the high volume of applications, only those candidates selected for interviews will be contacted. Shortlisted candidates may be requested to undergo skill and technical tests.

About CSEP

The Centre for Social and Economic Progress (CSEP) conducts in-depth, policy relevant research and provides evidence-based recommendations to the challenges facing India and the world. It draws on the expertise of its researchers, extensive interactions with policy makers as well as convening power to enhance the impact of research.

Our researchers work across domains including, but not limited to, Growth, Finance, Health & Human Development; Energy, Natural Resources and Sustainability; and Foreign Policy and Security. All our research and policy recommendations are freely available to the public.

CSEP is an independent, non-partisan research organisation. It is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All persons regardless of race, colour, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age or sexual orientation shall have equal access to positions, limited only by their ability to do the job.

CSEP is based in New Delhi and registered as a company limited by shares and not for profit under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 1956 (now Section 8 of Companies Act, 2013).