Research Associate

Job Title Market Research & MSME Field Research Associate (Import–Export | Import Substitution | MSME Development) Role Overview The Market Research & MSME Field Research Associate will support research, analytics, and field-level implementation activities for MSME development, import substitution, and export promotion programs under government-led initiatives such as RAMP . The role combines desk-based market and sector research with on-ground MSME engagement , enabling evidence-based policy inputs, program design, and implementation support. This position is ideal for candidates aspiring to build a career in government consulting, economic research, development programs, and MSME advisory . Key Responsibilities 1. Market, Sector & Policy Research Conduct market scans, sector studies, competitor analysis, and value chain assessments Develop MSME sector profiles, industry diagnostics, and opportunity mapping reports Track domestic and international market trends relevant to imports, exports, and MSME competitiveness Support secondary research using government portals, databases, reports, and online sources 2. Primary Research & Field Engagement Conduct field surveys, MSME interviews, and enterprise-level diagnostics Support design of questionnaires, survey tools, and data collection frameworks Capture data related to MSME operations, imports, exports, sourcing, production, and constraints Document insights from stakeholder consultations, workshops, and field interactions 3. Import Substitution & Export Opportunity Mapping Identify import-dependent products, components, and raw materials used by MSMEs Map local manufacturing, sourcing, and capability development opportunities Assess technology, skill, infrastructure, and market gaps at the enterprise and sector level Support export readiness assessments and market opportunity identification 4. Data Analysis & Insight Generation Analyse qualitative and quantitative data from field and secondary sources Support preparation of dashboards, charts, and summary analytics Identify sectoral gaps, risks, and growth opportunities to inform program decisions Translate research findings into actionable insights and recommendations 5. Reporting, MIS & Program Support Prepare research reports, sectoral studies, presentations, and policy briefs Contribute inputs to program MIS, dashboards, and knowledge repositories Document field findings, diagnostics, and stakeholder engagement records Support organization of workshops, training programs, consultations, and outreach activities Assist program teams during reviews, monitoring, and strategy discussions Key Deliverables Market research reports and sectoral studies MSME diagnostics, sector profiles, and value chain mappings Import substitution and export opportunity assessment notes Research dashboards, charts, and summary presentations Field survey documentation, datasets, and stakeholder engagement records Policy notes, briefs, and program recommendations Qualifications Education Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Management, Commerce, Business Administration, Social Sciences, Rural Development , or related disciplines Experience & Skill Requirements 1–3 years of experience in: Market or sector research Field research and MSME engagement Consulting, development programs, or analytics roles Strong research, analytical, and report-writing skills Familiarity with: Survey tools and data collection platforms Government portals, databases, and secondary research sources Ability to synthesise large volumes of information into clear, structured insights Strong interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills Ability to engage effectively with MSME owners, workers, and local stakeholders Willingness to travel within assigned districts or regions as required Basic understanding of MSMEs, imports, exports, or government schemes is an added advantage Industry Business Consulting | Government Advisory | MSME & Economic Development