Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Associate/Research Scientist - Air Quality Observations

at Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP)

🏢 About Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP)

CSTEP is a premier Indian think tank that uniquely bridges scientific research with practical policymaking, focusing on sustainable development through evidence-based solutions. Working here offers the opportunity to directly influence national environmental policies while collaborating with government stakeholders and international research networks.

About This Role

This Senior Associate/Research Scientist role involves designing comprehensive air quality studies using advanced monitoring equipment (AMS/ACSM, reference-grade monitors, low-cost sensor networks) and translating findings into actionable policy recommendations. The position directly contributes to India's air quality management strategies while mentoring junior researchers and engaging with diverse stakeholders.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve analyzing real-time data from air quality monitoring networks, developing Python/R scripts for aerosol characterization, and preparing technical briefs for government stakeholders. You could spend afternoons mentoring junior researchers on data interpretation or collaborating with AI/ML teams to enhance analysis tools, with regular workshops requiring you to translate complex findings into accessible presentations.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP) Is Looking For

  • Has hands-on experience with aerosol characterization equipment (AMS/ACSM) and reference-grade air quality monitors, not just theoretical knowledge
  • Demonstrates proven ability to develop custom data analysis tools/packages in collaboration with technical teams, preferably with Python/R experience
  • Shows a track record of publishing peer-reviewed manuscripts on air quality research and presenting at international conferences
  • Possesses experience designing and delivering capacity-building workshops for non-technical audiences including government officials

📝 Tips for Applying to Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP)

1

Highlight specific experience with AMS/ACSM equipment or similar aerosol characterization instruments in your resume's technical skills section

2

Include examples of successful stakeholder engagement with Indian government agencies or policymakers in your application materials

3

Prepare a portfolio showing data analysis tools/packages you've developed, ideally with links to GitHub repositories or similar

4

Demonstrate understanding of India's air quality challenges by referencing specific policies (like NCAP) or regional issues in your cover letter

5

Showcase mentoring experience with concrete examples of junior researchers you've guided in data analysis or report writing

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your hands-on experience with specific air quality monitoring equipment mentioned in the job description (AMS/ACSM, reference-grade monitors)', 'Examples of translating complex air quality data into actionable policy recommendations or stakeholder communications', 'Experience collaborating with technical/AI/ML teams to develop data analysis tools or packages', 'Your approach to mentoring junior researchers in scientific writing and data analysis methodologies']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review CSTEP's recent air quality publications and policy briefs on their website to understand their research focus areas
  • → Study India's National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) and how think tanks like CSTEP contribute to its implementation
  • → Research CSTEP's key government partners and stakeholders in environmental policymaking
  • → Examine CSTEP's capacity-building initiatives and workshop formats for government officials

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk us through your experience designing an air quality study using multiple monitoring technologies (reference-grade, low-cost sensors, AMS/ACSM)
2 How would you explain complex aerosol characterization data to non-specialist government officials during a capacity-building workshop?
3 Describe a time you developed a custom data analysis tool/package and how you collaborated with technical teams in the process
4 What specific air quality challenges in India do you find most pressing, and how would your research approach address them?
5 How do you ensure quality control when working with networks of lower-cost air sensors compared to reference-grade equipment?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting generic applications that don't specifically address air quality monitoring equipment mentioned (AMS/ACSM, reference-grade monitors)
  • Focusing only on academic research without demonstrating policy translation or stakeholder engagement experience
  • Claiming data analysis experience without concrete examples of tool/package development or collaboration with technical teams

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP)!

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