Head of Research
Job Summary
The Public Lab Complex (PLC) is a part of the Science Gallery Model in Bengaluru, which was built as a solution to academic silos and a lack of publicly available space for scientific inquiry. We seek to bridge the gap between institutional research and the public by providing accessible tools and outcomes to young adults and experts. The PLC will be structured around five thematic laboratories: Nature Lab, Materials Lab, Theory Lab, Food Lab, and New Media Lab. SGB is developing the model for the Public Labs Programme and is looking for a Head of Research to lead and establish this programme.
This position plays a pivotal role in shaping the Public Labs Fellowship, the Experimentor Programme, Public Engagement initiatives, and collaborative projects at the Public Lab Complex. The successful candidate will bring a strong academic foundation and the capacity to connect disciplines while making complex ideas accessible to diverse audiences.
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic Research Leadership
● Develop and execute a long-term research strategy aligned with SGB’s mission and thematic priorities for the Public Lab Complex.
● Identify emerging areas of inquiry and societal relevance to inform the Public Lab Complex and development of Public Engagement Programmes.
● Lead the conceptual development of annual themes and research fellowships aligned to SGB’s exhibition-season.
2. Program Development and Curation
● Collaborate with partner institutes, curators, artists, scientists, and educators to design the Public Labs Fellowship Programme.
● Ensure intellectual rigour and interdisciplinary depth across all public-facing content.
● Support the production of research publications, catalogues, and digital resources where required.
● Work with the learning team to develop the Public Labs Experimentor and Mediator programme.
3. Partnerships and Network Building
● Build and maintain long-term strategic partnerships with Indian and international universities and institutes, collaborating closely with them to co-design the programme offerings
● Cultivate relationships with academic institutions, research centres, cultural organisations, community organisations, and funding institutes to support and enrich Public Engagement Programmes
● Facilitate collaborative research projects and Fellowships with Indian and international partner universities and institutes
● Represent SGB in scholarly and public forums, conferences, and media
4. Mentorship and Capacity Building
● Mentor Fellows, Early-career researchers, Experimentors, Mediators, and interns engaged with the Public Lab Complex at SGB
● Foster a culture of inquiry, experimentation, and ethical research practice
● Support professional development and interdisciplinary training initiatives
5. Governance and Compliance
● Develop an ethics guideline for research at the Public Lab Complex
● Manage research budgets, grant applications, and reporting requirements
● Contribute to organisational planning, board reporting, and strategic reviews
Essentials
● PhD or equivalent experience in a relevant field (natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, engineering, or interdisciplinary studies)
● Demonstrated ability to lead complex projects and teams across disciplines
● Passion for public engagement and non-formal learning
● Ability to think beyond disciplinary boundaries and foster inclusive dialogue
● Excellent communication, strategic planning, and team leadership skills
● Comfort with fast-paced, collaborative environments and iterative design processes
● A research publication record and experience in Public Engagement
Desired Attributes
● 8–10 years of experience in research leadership, preferably in public-facing or interdisciplinary contexts.
● Experience working in or with Section 8 or non-profit organizations.
● Familiarity with non-profit governance, grant writing, and donor relations is desirable.
● Commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and public engagement.
Nature of Employment Full-time, Probation - 6 months
Reporting to Executive Director, Science Gallery Bengaluru
Location Science Gallery Bengaluru, Bellary Road (next to IVRI)
Work Hours Wednesday to Sunday; we are a small team of an institution in the establishment phase and therefore looking for people who are able to work flexibly. Late-nights, holiday and weekend work may be required.
Applying for the post:
To apply, please send an email to jobs@bengaluru.sciencegallery.com
• The subject line of the email must carry the job title to which you are applying.
• Please attach (1) a resume and (2) a brief covering letter stating your suitability for the position, keeping in mind the specifications mentioned above. Emails not adhering to the above specifications will be rejected.
Application Deadline
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Response
All applications will be considered with respect to the criteria outlined in the person specification. Personal enquiries on application status will not be entertained. No feedback will be provided at any stage of the application. Only short-listed applicants will be contacted via email.