Project Name: Improving Wellbeing and Connectedness of Urban Youth in India

Project Description:

About the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA)

Established in 1976, NIUA, is a premier Institute of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India for research and capacity building for urban sector in India. NIUA’s broad objective is to bridge the gap between research and practice on issues related to urbanization. For more than 40 years now, NIUA has been the vanguard for contributing to and building the urban narrative for a fast-evolving Urban India. The Institution has been actively working on bringing forth key areas of concern for urban India in order to build the urban discourse at various urban scales. It has utilized its competencies in research, knowledge management, policy advocacy and capacity building to address urban challenges and continuously striving to develop sustainable, inclusive, and productive urban ecosystems in the country. It has emerged as a thought leader and knowledge hub for urban development in India and is sought out by both Indian and International organizations for collaborations and partnerships in India’s urban transforming journey. NIUA is committed towards aligning its efforts towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through all its initiatives and programs.

About Program:

The Urban Youth Unit at the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), in collaboration with citiesRISE - New York, has initiated the program “Improving Wellbeing and Connectedness of Urban Youth in India”. This initiative aims to empower young people in urban India to advance mental health, wellbeing, and their connection with nature, fostering healthier and more resilient urban environments. The program places emphasis on the meaningful engagement of youth, recognizing their creativity, wisdom, and lived experiences as essential in addressing mental health challenges and ensuring a prosperous and well-developed future for India, aligned with the vision of a Vikasit Bharat.

Job Description:

Position Title: Research Associate (Youth)

Program: Improving Wellbeing and Connectedness of Urban Youth in India
Location: Delhi
No. of Positions: 01
Reporting To:  Lead Urban Youth Unit (National Program Coordinator)

Key Responsibilities:

• Youth Demographics Database: Support the development of a robust database focusing on youth demographics in urban Indian cities, capturing relevant factors related to mental health, social dynamics, and urban challenges.
• Mental Health Framework: Assist in designing a framework to analyze the current mental health landscape of urban youth, identifying trends and challenges within these communities.
• Toolkit Development: Contribute to the creation of a toolkit aimed at identifying and implementing innovative solutions to improve the mental health and wellbeing of youth in urban settings.
• Centered Cities Program: Support the development of the “Centered Cities” program, which focuses on integrating youth well-being initiatives within urban planning and development.
• Youth Empowerment Programs: Assist in organizing and executing capacity-building programs for youth empowerment, aiming to engage and uplift youth within urban areas.
• Reports and Research Studies: Lead and contribute to the development of research reports, studies, and analysis based on surveys and data collected through the program’s activities.
• Stakeholder Liaison: Collaborate with universities, schools, and youth groups in urban areas to gather insights and promote engagement in the program.
• Knowledge Documentation: Support the documentation and sharing of best practices and success stories through various formats such as videos, reports, and knowledge products.
• Other Research Tasks: Carry out additional research tasks as assigned by the Programme Lead to support the ongoing objectives of the program.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Educational Qualification:
  • Post Graduate Degree in Development Studies, Public Policy, Public Health, Sociology, Social Anthropology, Social Work, Applied Social Sciences & Humanities, Urban Planning, Architecture, or a related discipline.
• Experience:
  • 0 to 3 years of experience working in the urban development sector, particularly on youth-based programs or projects.
  • Experience in mental health or well-being initiatives for youth, especially within urban contexts.
  • Proven ability to conduct action-oriented research and implement capacity-building programs.
  • Strong track record of producing high-quality reports, studies, and other knowledge products.
• Skills:
  • Excellent communication skills in both English and at least one other Indian language (written and verbal).
  • Ability to work collaboratively in diverse teams and independently.
  • Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
  • Familiarity with data collection tools, surveys, and research software.
  • Ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Desired Attributes:

• A deep passion for empowering youth and addressing mental health challenges.
• Ability to think creatively and innovatively in program development and problem-solving.
• Strong interpersonal skills to effectively engage with youth, academic institutions, and other key stakeholders.
• A proactive, positive attitude and the ability to adapt in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Application Process:

Interested candidates are invited to submit a detailed CV with three references and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and relevant experience.

No of Positions: 1

End Date: 8th Apr 2025

Job Description pdf:research_associate_youth.pdf