Socially Conscious Scientists

Media Lab Asia is looking for creative, socially conscious scientists who can invent the next generation of computing and communications technologies. If you have a Ph.D., have published papers in peer-reviewed international journals, and have a demonstrated track record in IT for social and economic development, write to us at jobs@medialabasia.org

Media Lab Asia consists of the renowned Media Laboratory at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), regional laboratories in Mumbai, Kanpur, New Delhi, and Chennai, and participating grassroots communities. The organization is administratively headquartered in Mumbai.

The role of Media Lab Asia is to facilitate the invention, refinement and dissemination of innovations that benefit the greatest number possible of the world's disadvantaged population. Our research is focused on four broad themes.

Digital Village: Realizing Gandhi's vision of a sustainable village through culturally appropriate use of new technologies. Digital tech, biotech, and nanotech can either erase traditional culture or enhance it and make it sustainable. Our goal is to create a digital ecology that maintains traditional values and community while opening economic and expressive opportunities.

Tomorrow's Tools: Wealthy urban societies envision a world of pervasive digital intelligence, but the same technologies can have even more impact in rural societies by transforming traditional handicrafts, agriculture, education, and healthcare.

Bits for Everyone: How can we bring digitally enabled services to everyone on earth? From synthetic aperture satellite links constructed from dozens of cell phones, to bicycle computers and new wireless networks delivering bits to the door of people's homes, we are exploring new, cost-effective methods of connecting every person on earth.

World Computer: A computer for kids, for the illiterate, for communities, for everyone. Language, electrical power, literacy, and personal wealth are some of the problems that prevent participation in the digital revolution.

We are creating computers and system software that transcend these barriers to bring digital services to everyone.

We are looking for world-class researchers in each of these areas who can deliver high-impact research that translates into more meaningful lives for large sections of the world's population.

To apply
Please e-mail, and include an introductory statement of 500 words or under along with your CV. Your email should be composed in clear ASCII text or html. Attachments will not be opened. URL links to relevant websites are welcome.