Research Assistant

JLX studio

Website: jlxstudio.in
Job details:

The Everyday Design Archive (EDA) is a practice of noticing. It documents and reflects on the vernacular, functional, and often overlooked design forms that shape everyday life. EDA is not about spectacle—it is about attention, memory, and meaning.

Role Overview

We are looking for a Research Assistant who can observe closely, listen deeply, and write with clarity and sensitivity. This role involves engaging with people, places, and objects to uncover the stories and cultural contexts embedded in everyday design.

You will work at the intersection of research, writing, and field engagement—helping build a living archive rooted in lived experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Field Research & Documentation: Identify and document everyday design objects, practices, and environments
• Conduct on-ground visits, conversations, and observations
• Record oral histories, anecdotes, and contextual insights
• Interviews & Engagement: Speak with craftspeople, workers, users, and communities
• Build trust and meaningful connections
• Draw out nuanced stories and perspectives
• Writing & Synthesis: Translate research into clear, engaging written pieces
• Capture not just information, but the essence of subjects
• Contribute to archive entries, essays, and narratives
• Archival Support: Organize notes, transcripts, and visual documentation
• Assist in structuring and maintaining the archive

Who You Are

• A curious observer with sensitivity to everyday life and culture
• A strong writer who can articulate ideas with clarity and depth
• A good listener and communicator, comfortable speaking with diverse people
• Someone who can build rapport and trust in real-world interactions
• Attentive to detail, yet able to see the larger cultural context

Skills & Requirements

• Language Fluency in English (spoken and written)
• Working knowledge of Kannada
• Additional South Indian languages are a strong advantage
• Educational Background: Literature, Sociology, History, Journalism, or related fields
• Other Skills: Interviewing and qualitative research skills
• Ability to write long-form and short-form content
• Basic documentation skills (audio, notes, photography is a plus)

What This Role Offers

• Opportunity to work closely with a unique, evolving archive of everyday design
• Deep engagement with cultural practices, communities, and lived histories
• A space to develop your voice as a researcher and writer
• Exposure to interdisciplinary thinking across design, culture, and society

Location

Primarily based in and around Bangalore, with travel as required.

How to Apply

Please share:

• A short note on why this role interests you
• 1–2 writing samples (published or unpublished)
• Any relevant fieldwork or research experience 
• Please email your application to hello@jlxstudio.in

Click on Apply to know more.