Public Policy Fellow - Kerala

About CivicDataLab We work at the intersection of data, technology, design and social science to strengthen the data for public good ecosystem and citizen participation in governance. CivicDataLab (CDL) harnesses the potential of open knowledge movements to strengthen the data-for-public-good ecosystem and enable citizens to engage in matters of public reform. We work closely with governments, non-profits, think-tanks, media houses and universities to enhance their data and technology capacity to better data-driven decision-making at scale. Our current areas of expertise include digital public goods & infrastructure (DPGs & DPI), climate action, public finance, urban development, open contracting and law & justice. We have co-created digital public goods like open data platforms, data exchanges, AI models and citizen-led apps for improving participatory data-driven governance in India and other countries. Please read more about us : https://civicdatalab.in/ Roles and Responsibilities Engage with government departments, public institutions, universities, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to initiate conversations and build long-term institutional relationships. Conduct stakeholder, policy and sectoral research, including stakeholder mapping, ecosystem assessments, field visits and analysis of relevant institutional and regulatory frameworks. Prepare meeting notes, research briefs, presentations, concept notes, policy recommendations and other project documentation, translating complex technical, legal and policy concepts into accessible language. Plan and facilitate workshops, consultations, round tables and other stakeholder engagements. Understand government priorities and challenges, and identify potential partnerships, datasets, use cases and opportunities for collaboration. Coordinate with internal teams and external stakeholders to develop partnerships and support implementation through roadmaps, guidance materials, training resources and capacity-building activities. Contribute to CDL’s research, publications and knowledge products across thematic areas such as data governance, responsible AI, language technologies, climate resilience and digital public infrastructure. Eligibility Criteria Essential Qualifications Educational Background: Master's degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Development Studies, Economics, Social Sciences, Management, Technology or related disciplines. Professional Experience: 1-2 years of experience in stakeholder engagement, public policy, research, consulting, development sector or related work. Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage confidently and build relationships with government and other stakeholders. Language Proficiency: Native or professional proficiency in the relevant state language(s) of the selected location. Research Skills: Ability to understand new policy and sectoral areas, conduct research and synthesise information. Availability: Willingness to work in a hybrid setting with regular field visits, government meetings and stakeholder engagements. Preferred Qualifications Experience working with government datasets, open data platforms or data repositories. Familiarity with tools such as Excel/Google Sheets, data visualisation tools, or basic Python/SQL. Familiarity with data, AI, digital public infrastructure or technology. Prior experience working with state government departments or public institutions. Experience in stakeholder consultations, community engagement or partnership development. Knowledge of Indian language datasets, corpora, or linguistic resources Familiarity with AI/ML concepts and their application in multilingual contexts Requirements Application Requirements Application Link: https://forms.gle/H4jB2fL24v5fvPUs9 1. Completed Online Application Form All sections including basic information, experience details, language proficiencies, and motivational responses 2. Curriculum Vitae (CV) Upload a comprehensive CV (PDF format, max 5MB) that clearly highlights: Your educational qualifications with institutions and years Detailed work experience, particularly in stakeholder research, community engagement, or participatory projects All Indian languages you are proficient in (specify speaking, reading, writing abilities) Any publications, research projects, or relevant contributions to language technology or datasets Technical skills and familiarity with digital platforms References (optional but recommended) 3. Video Statement (5 Minutes) Record and upload a 5-minute video (MP4/MOV format, max 100MB) that addresses: Introduction: Brief background about yourself and your current work Motivation: Why you are interested in this Fellowship Understanding: Your perspective on language as Digital Public Infrastructure and the importance of linguistic representation in AI datasets Learning Goals: What you hope to learn or unlearn during this fellowship Contribution: How your background and skills make you suitable for this role Video Guidelines: Keep it conversational and authentic Smartphone recording quality is acceptable; ensure clear audio and lighting No need for professional editing, we want to hear your genuine thoughts Benefits Selection Process Application Review: All complete applications will be reviewed by the DOST selection committee Shortlisting: Candidates will be shortlisted based on eligibility criteria and application quality Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview Final Selection: Selected fellows will receive offer letters with detailed terms and conditions