The National Institute of Design (NID) is inviting applications for the prestigious Research Chair in “Design for Agritech in India”. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between theoretical academic innovation and practical, sustainable agricultural solutions, placing the farmer and their specific ecological context at the centre of the innovation process. This call for applications is a significant opportunity for distinguished professionals in design and technology to contribute to the advancement of Agritech in India.

Research Chair in Design for Agritech in India

The Research Chair in “Design for Agritech in India” is a unique opportunity to drive innovation in the agricultural sector by integrating ethnographic studies and on-field diagnostics with robust design and technology principles. The initiative seeks to develop tools and systems tailored to the diverse needs of smallholder Indian farmers, leveraging “Design in India” as a catalyst for setting new benchmarks in indigenous agricultural practices and quality standards.

Core Mission and Objectives

• Contextual Research: Conducting in-depth research on the socioeconomic, cultural, and environmental factors influencing technology adoption in various Indian agricultural regions.
• Human-Centred Design (HCD) Application: Developing and prototyping Agritech solutions—from digital interfaces and information systems to farm equipment and tools—that are intuitive, reliable, and affordable, following HCD methodologies.
• Capacity Building: Mentoring the next generation of researchers, designers, and entrepreneurs working in the Agritech space through specialised courses, workshops, and doctoral research supervision.
• Policy and Outreach: Generating evidence-based policy and actively engaging with farmers, NGOs, industry stakeholders, and government bodies to facilitate the transfer of research outcomes into practical implementation.

Expected Impact

The Research Chair is expected to significantly contribute to improving farmer productivity and income by designing solutions that address real-world constraints. It aims to enhance sustainability by promoting resource-efficient and environmentally responsible agricultural practices and solutions. Additionally, it seeks to bridge the digital divide by promoting Agritech solutions that are accessible, regardless of literacy levels or access to advanced infrastructure, and foster innovation ecosystems by creating a platform for collaboration between design, engineering, agriculture, and social sciences.

Eligibility and Application Process

Applications are invited from distinguished academic or professional practitioners with at least 15 years of experience in design and technology. Successful candidates must demonstrate a deep commitment to social impact and the capability to lead multidisciplinary teams. This position is also open to NID’s internal faculty members who have at least 15 years of service at the Institute and hold a Senior Faculty or higher position.

Interested candidates may submit their applications through the NID website at https://nid.edu/career. The application should include a detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) along with a portfolio demonstrating relevant research, professional practice, projects, publications, and other significant achievements relevant to the proposed Chair. A Statement of Research Intent, outlining the proposed research agenda, scope, methodology, and expected outcomes for the three-year tenure of the Chair, is also required.

Appointment and Duration

The duration of the chair will be three years, subject to performance evaluation at the end of each year. Campus accommodation is provided, subject to availability. Internal faculty candidates must fulfil minimum teaching requirements and will be relieved of other academic and external professional project commitments for the duration of the appointment.

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Selection Procedure

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview with a specialised selection committee at NID. The selection process will focus on the candidate’s ability to lead and innovate in the Agritech space, ensuring that the solutions developed are effective, accessible, and sustainable for smallholder farmers and agricultural communities across India.

“The National Institute of Design invites applications for the prestigious Research Chair in ‘Design for Agritech in India’. This initiative seeks to bridge the gap between theoretical academic innovation and practical, sustainable agricultural solutions.”

In conclusion, the Research Chair in “Design for Agritech in India” at the National Institute of Design offers a transformative opportunity for professionals in design and technology to make a significant impact on the agricultural sector. By focusing on human-centred design and sustainable practices, this initiative aims to enhance the productivity and sustainability of smallholder farmers across India.

Interested candidates may submit their applications through the NID website at https://nid.edu/career 

Application Deadline: 30 days from the date of the advertisement

📣 OFFICIAL SOURCE / REFERENCE

The National Institute of Design invites applications from eligible candidates for the Research Chair in Design for Agritech in India.

Research Chair in Design for Agritech in India Recruitment: View Official Notification

Uttar Pradesh Reference: https://nid.edu/public/documents/5hcGomfalZ.pdf