NCAER is strengthening its capabilities in the energy sector. As part of this, NCAER is collaborating with the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) to undertake economic, financial, and policy analyses to identify and assess opportunities for restructuring energy infrastructure, including pipeline networks and associated storage facilities, through appropriate ownership, investment, financing, and institutional models. The work will draw on international benchmarking, stakeholder consultations, and economic modelling to support evidence-based policymaking and regulatory decision-making.

For this programme, NCAER is looking for a researcher who is excited by in-depth data analysis and driven by a commitment to evidence-based policymaking. The selected candidate is expected to be a self-driven performer with a passion for delving into complex policy issues; a strong technical background; multi-tasking capabilities; an eye for detail; and the ability to adhere to stringent timelines in a dynamic research and policy environment. NCAER provides unparalleled opportunities to work on complex economic policy issues, use NCAER’s datasets, and engage with senior policymakers and industry stakeholders.

Position Overview The Strategic Associate will report to the Director General and work closely with the NCAER project team on research studies, policy assessments, and strategic initiatives in the energy sector, including oil and gas, and renewable energy. The role is primarily research-based, centred on rigorous economic, financial, and policy analysis, and involves regular engagement with regulators and industry stakeholders to ensure the timely, high-quality delivery of studies, reports, and policy recommendations.

Key Responsibilities

- Conduct research and policy analysis in the energy sector, including oil and gas, and renewable energy.
- Evaluate alternative ownership, investment, financing, and institutional models for restructuring energy infrastructure, including valuation approaches, economic and regulatory models, and assessment of market readiness.
- Review international experiences and best practices, and benchmark the regulatory, governance,



and institutional frameworks adopted in other countries.
- Collect, manage, validate, and analyse quantitative and qualitative data from infrastructure operators and other authentic sources; conduct literature reviews, economic and financial analyses, and policy assessments to support the studies.
- Prepare technical reports, research publications, working papers, policy briefs, and regulatory recommendations.
- Contribute to research proposals and disseminate findings through workshops, conferences, and seminars, while handling confidential regulatory and commercial information in accordance with applicable requirements.

Qualifications and Experience

Educational Qualifications

- Master’s degree in Economics, Engineering, Energy Management, or an MBA (Oil & Gas, Energy, Infrastructure, or Finance) from a recognised institute. Preference will be given to candidates with a PhD in a relevant discipline.

Professional Experience

- 3–5 years of relevant professional experience in the energy sector, preferably in oil and gas pipelines (natural gas or petroleum product pipelines and allied infrastructure), gained through research, consulting, industry, or regulatory roles.
- Exposure to regulatory, policy, infrastructure finance, valuation, or investment analysis in the petroleum and natural gas sector will be an added advantage.
- Strong analytical and quantitative skills, including economic and financial modelling, econometric analysis, and proficiency in statistical software (e.g., Stata, R, or Python), along with excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Last Date: November 5, 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Duration of Appointment: Initially for three years, with a provision for renewal.

Compensation:



A salary that is commensurate with market standards and the experience of the selected candidate.

How to Apply

Applicants should send a letter describing their past experience and their interest, a detailed CV, and the names of three professional references. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. For fullest consideration, please apply by November 5, 2026.

Please send your application by email to [email protected], noting “Strategic Associate, Energy Sector” in the subject line.

About NCAER

NCAER is India’s oldest and largest national, non-profit, independent economic research institute. Since 1956, NCAER has contributed high-quality research to shape policy decisions in India. It is among the few think tanks globally that have strong field data collection capabilities for national surveys; and its research covers a spectrum of policy-focused applied research in economics, from macroeconomics to poverty and infrastructure.

NCAER offers a vibrant, dynamic academic environment with both world-class faculty and physical infrastructure. If you’re stuck with writer’s block, a stroll around our campus might be the antidote. If you want to unwind, there will always be someone willing to play a game of table tennis or badminton.

Join a visionary team that values research excellence, collaboration, and qualified growth. NCAER offers a stimulating work environment where your research ideas can make a real difference.

NCAER is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Job Overview

Job Posted

22 Oct, 2026

Experience

3–5 years of relevant professional experience in the energy sector, preferably in oil and gas pipelines (natural gas or petroleum product pipelines and allied infrastructure), gained through research, consulting, industry, or regulatory roles.

Education

Master’s degree in Economics, Engineering, Energy Management, or an MBA (Oil & Gas, Energy, Infrastructure, or Finance) from a recognised institute. Preference will be given to candidates with a PhD in a relevant discipline.

Location

NCAER, New Delhi

📌 Strategic Associate: Energy Sector (Delhi)
🏢 National Council Of Applied Economic Research
📍 Delhi