Researchers & officials
Md. Sohel
Research Assistant
Md. Sohel has graduated with a Master’s in Public Administration and Governance studies from Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, where he developed a keen interest in social research. With over two years of experience in the field, he has focused on diverse areas such as education, poverty, human rights, social safety-net issues, and gender and women empowerment.
During his post-graduation, he collaborated with faculty member(s) as a data collector and actively participated in the development of research questionnaires for qualitative research projects. One notable study, titled ‘University Education and Labor Market Linkages,’ was published by the Institute of Research and Extension Center (IREC, JKKNIU). This study aimed to explore university students’ perceptions regarding the job market and the alignment of their education with market demands. He has successfully conducted some fieldwork projects, showcasing his expertise in qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. He excels in planning and designing research projects and has the ability to prepare comprehensive data analysis reports. In addition to his research skills, he also possesses experience in service quality and complaint management, project management, and human resource management. Throughout his professional journey, he has worked with renowned organizations such as bKash Ltd, SERAC Bangladesh, BRAC, and Dutch Bangla Bank Ltd.
Beyond his professional endeavors, he is an active member of various social and volunteer organizations. He is driven by a strong passion for human psychology, poverty and education, health and nutrition, climate change, and gender equality. With his diverse skill set and deep commitment to social issues, he continues to contribute to the betterment of society through his research and active engagement in social initiatives.
Koushik Roy
Research Assistant
Koushik Roy, a recent graduate with a Master’s degree in Anthropology from Jahangirnagar University, has embarked on an academic journey that has fortified his understanding of the field. His active involvement in diverse research projects has allowed him to delve into topics such as migration, culture, human behavior, indigenous peoples, and environmental studies.
After completing his master’s degree, Koushik joined Development Research Initiative (dRi) as an intern. During this period, he honed his skills in quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. Now, as a Research Assistant at dRi, he plays a pivotal role in various research endeavors. Koushik’s proficiency extends to tools such as Microsoft Office Packages, KoBo Collect, Atlas.ti, and Nvivo. His eagerness to learn and explore new opportunities in the field of anthropology underscores his commitment to continuous growth and development.
Sheikh Sahanewaz
Research Assistant
Sheikh Sahanewaz has completed his BSS in Dept. of Archaeology from Jahangirnagar University. He has recently joined as a Research Assistant at Development Research Initiative (dRi ). He has about 7 years of experience in the field of social research. Previously, he has worked with James P Grant School of Public Health, Brac University, BRAC RED, Centre for Entrepreneurship Development (CED), Brac University, Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD).
He has expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, conducting training sessions for the field researchers, supervising the field researchers as well as ensuring the quality of data collection and research output and report writing. He has a clear understanding and interest in democracy practice, socio-economics and socio-politics, political and religious freedom, climate changes, women empowerment and gender equity.
Arafat Hossain Ovi
Research Assistant
Arafat Hossain Ovi is a distinguished researcher with a strong foundation in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. He earned his graduate and postgraduate degrees in Anthropology from Jahangirnagar University, where he developed a deep understanding of human behavior, culture, and societal structures. His academic training not only sharpened his research skills but also ignited his passion for conducting fieldwork and exploring the complexities of human societies.
Arafat’s professional career began as a Research Assistant at the Development Research Initiative (dRi), where he seamlessly applied his theoretical knowledge to practical, real-world research projects. Over time, he has contributed to significant initiatives, such as serving as a Qualitative Researcher for Save the Children’s “Suchana Project” final evaluation, where he assessed the impact and outcomes of the project. Additionally, Arafat has worked as a Field Supervisor for the World Food Programme’s (WFP) “School Feeding Programme,” managing field operations and ensuring the successful implementation of the project.Arafat’s commitment to research, combined with his field experience, makes him a well-rounded expert in his field, and he continues to make valuable contributions to both academic and development research.
Md. Nazmul Hasan
Research Assistant
Md. Nazmul Hasan holds an MSc in Statistics from Jahangirnagar University. He recently joined dRi as a Research Assistant. He has expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, conducting training sessions for the field researchers, supervising the field researchers as well as ensuring the quality of data collection and research output and report writing. Nazmul’s proficiency extends to tools such as Microsoft Office Packages, KoBo Collect, Survey CTO.
His eagerness to learn and explore new opportunities in the field of Statistics underscores his commitment to continuous growth and development.Throughout his academic journey, Nazmul demonstrated strong leadership skills, including his involvement with the Student Welfare Association and Badhon. He has also gained valuable experience working with the Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS).
Mahjabin Hossain Akhi
Research Assistant
Mahjabin Hossain Akhi is a recent graduate from Jahangirnagar University with master’s and bachelor’s degrees in Anthropology. She has special interests in postmodernism and effects of visual media in cultural transmission. Akhi is working at dRi as a research assistant who specifically assigned under the MANTRAMS Project, funded by a European Research Council (ERC) Synergy Grant. As a member, her responsibilities include developing qualitative research tool , field management, conducting training sessions and producing final reports.
In addition, she is actively involved in the transcription, coding, and thematic analysis of qualitative data using software tools, contributing to academic publications and technical reports. Her work supports the project’s broader aims of generating innovative insights into the study of Mantras in South Asia. Her strong grounding in anthropological theory, a sensitivity to cultural complexity, and a passion for research has the opportunity to bridge academia and real-world impact.
Md. Imran Azad
Assistant Manager, Data Analytics
Md. Imran Azad is currently working as a Senior Officer of Data Analytics unit at Development Research Initiative (dRi) since January, 2018 to present. The major responsibilities performed under this organization include assisting in planning and designing of the research projects, conducting training session for the field researchers, and preparing questionnaire for survey, preparing Quantitative Data Collection Tools in various platforms such as ODK, Survey CTO, KOBO toolbox etc., operating data collection applications and maintaining servers like Survey Solution, Akvo Flow etc., supervising the field researchers and making sure that quality of data is collected, transcribe, transcript the primary materials and assist in conducting analysis of the data, assisting in cleaning raw data and analyzing it on various data analysis software like SPSS, STATA and maintaining communication with different donors for various research projects.
Md. Mostak Elehy
Junior Officer, Data Analytics
Md. Mostak Elehy has completed his graduation and post-graduation in Public Administration from University of Rajshahi. He is proficient in communicating, writing, reading and Speaking in English and Bengali. He is also expert in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Power Point.His job responsibility includes conducting Focused Group Discussion and Public Hearing/ Consultation Meeting with Project Affected People, Data Entry, assisting In Data Cleaning, preparing EP ID card, and preparing Compensation Distribution List.
Md. Abu Sayeed
Officer, Data Analytics
Md. Abu Sayeed is a passionate individual with a strong interest in data management, analytics, and research. He holds a post-graduate degree in Statistics which has helped him pursue his passion effectively. Currently, he is involved in research work and has already published a paper titled “Prevalence and underlying factors of mobile game addiction among university students in Bangladesh”.
Throughout his academic journey, he has developed excellent leadership skills, holding the position of Vice President for the “Statistics Association of Department of Statistics, Jahangirnagar University”. Additionally, he has participated in various extracurricular activities and was recognized as a finalist in the “Disaster Hackathon 1.0 in Bangladesh”. His project on predicting cyclone-associated rainfall was highly praised.
Sayeed is proficient in data processing, qualitative and quantitative analysis and various statistical methods. He has a sound knowledge of software such as R, SPSS, and STATA. Currently, he is working as a data analyst at dRi and contributing to different research projects by manipulating, processing, and analyzing data.
Ashiqur Rahman Rony
Junior Officer, Data Analytics
Ashiqur Rahman Rony is a data enthusiast with a strong foundation in statistics, holding a BSc degree from Government Titumir College. He is highly motivated to transform data into actionable insights and possesses skills in data collection, analysis, and reporting, enabling him to tackle complex projects across various fields. His experience includes internships at Brac JPGSH, freelance work on Upwork’s Analytics platform, and leadership roles in student organizations.
Rony has a strong understanding of research methodologies and is skilled at translating complicated data into concise and informative reports. He uses tools like Stata, SPSS, and R to aid in this process. His deep passion for data analytics led him to establish the Government Titumir College Analytics Club, aiming to encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing among members of the data community. Additionally, during his undergraduate project, he focused on exploring the intriguing connection between internet usage, academic performance, and student mental health.
Wazida Hasan
Manager, Business Development and Knowledge
Management (BDKM)
Wazida Hasan has 08 (eight) years working experience as Social Researcher and Gender Expert. She has special skill in proposal writing and conducting social research for various international and national development organizations and consultancy firms. Range of her expertise includes conducting mixed method research, training sessions, advocacy on social issues.
She has training and extensive practical experience in gender, social inclusion, SRHR, Child rights, Health and Nutrition, Labour Rights, Humanitarian Crisis etc. She has special training on social and environmental safeguard policies used in the World Bank and ADB funded projects and programs. She is also well versed in project evaluation, policy research and the design of analytical research and evaluation methodologies in both fixed and flexible design approaches. She has expertise in Planning and designing of research projects, Preparing data analysis report etc.
She has been working with Development Research Initiative (dRi) from September 2019 as Senior Officer of Fundraising & Business Development unit and she is responsible for research designing, tools development, successful completion of projects etc. As part of her job she is responsible for maintaining communication with different development partners and other organizations for various research projects as needed. She has worked on projects funded by renowned organizations including UNDP, ILO, World Bank, ADB, Save the Children Oxfam etc
Fahmida Fesrdous Maria
Officer, Business Development and Knowledge
Management (BDKM)
Fahmida Fesrdous Maria has a Master’s Degree in Development Studies from BIGD, BRAC University. She has 4 years’ experience of working in project coordination, management and market research. She has expertise in proposal writing, communication and supervision and has sound knowledge on SPSS and STATA. Currently she is working as a Junior Officer of Fundraising & Business Development unit at Development Research Initiative (dRi) and responsible for writing proposals and Expression of Interest (EOI). She is working with the researchers to ensure quality of information collected and research output. She is also responsible for conducting training sessions for the field researchers and visiting fields for supervising research teams in data collection, FGD, KII, IDI as required for research projects. She is interested in market or enterprise-based research, gender inequality, social safety-net, food security, climate change, disability and child rights.
Nishat Jahan Ananna
Officer, Communication
Nishat Jahan Ananna has pursued her BSS and MSS degree in Disaster and Human Security Management from Bangladesh University of Professionals. She has been working as a Research Assistant in Development Research Initiative (dRi) from September, 2021. She is responsible for assistance in planning and designing of the research projects, conducting training sessions for the field researchers, supervising the field researchers as well as ensuring the quality of data collection and research output, preparing desk reports and providing assistance in preparing final project reports. During her graduation, she was the treasurer of BUP Disaster Management Forum (DMF) and a general member of BUP Research Society.
Besides, she provided translation and transcription services for different organizations in her university days. Furthermore, she is involved with different voluntary organizations which aim to work for social development. She is a development researcher with hands on experience in qualitative and quantitative methods, research design, research methodology, translation, transcription, field work/data collection, analysis and report writing. She has sound knowledge on Microsoft office and ArcGIS. Disaster management, climate change, gender inequality, urban poverty, food security, disability and child rights are the focus of her area of interest.
Devsri Sarkar
Junior Officer, Business Development Knowledge Management (BDKM)
Devsri Sarkar has joined the Business Development and Knowledge Management team of dRi as a Junior Officer in 2024. In this role, she is responsible for writing final reports, maintaining communication and coordination with clients, presenting study findings to clients, developing study tools, monitoring the training of the field team, monitoring data quality, documentation, coordinating clients and field team.
She has worked with several national and international organizations including WorldFish, BRAC, Caritas Bangladesh, Standard Chartered Bank (SCB), and Dustha Sasthya Kendra (DSK) on diverse projects, including baseline, midline, and endline studies, monitoring and evaluation (M&E) and progress assessments.
She has completed her graduation in 2023 and post graduation in 2024 with a Social Science degree majoring in Criminology from University of Dhaka. She has been passionate about research and writing since her sophomore year and associated with several research projects launched by her department since then.
She had previously worked as a Content Writer at Omnispace Ltd and as a Research Assistant at Inspira Advisory & Consulting ltd. During her academic life, she has conducted both qualitative and quantitative studies as part of her course requirement.
She took part in a myriad of extracurricular activities that have significantly enhanced her research aptitude and expanded her comprehension of pertinent social issues. Alongside her professional and academic background, she is actively involved in several charity and volunteering organizations that work for social change. Devsri envisions to build a green society and contribute into the development of a sustainable society.
Sanjida Kabir Chowdhury
Junior Officer, Business Development and Knowledge Management (BDKM)
Sanjida Kabir Chowdhury has completed her graduation and post-graduation from the Department of Anthropology at Shahjalal University of Science & Technology (SUST). Currently, she holds the position of Junior Officer of Business Development and Knowledge Management (BDKM) at Development Research Initiative (dRi). In this role, she assumes responsibility for drafting proposals, Expression of Interest (EOI), as well as providing support in crafting inception reports and conducting data analysis for designated projects.
With a background encompassing four academic fieldwork experiences and a proficiency in qualitative data collection methods, Sanjida brings a wealth of practical knowledge to her current endeavors. Notably, her undergraduate thesis delved into the anthropological examination of the alterations in burial rituals amid the COVID-19 pandemic within the North Dhaka City Corporation area.Sanjida’s professional interests extend to criminology, criminal psychology, health and nutrition, and social stigmatization, reflecting her multifaceted engagement with societal issues and human behavior.
Faria Mehejabin
Junior Officer, Business Development and Knowledge Management
Faria Mehejabin is a committed and enthusiastic individual, currently serving as a Junior Officer in the Business Development and Knowledge Management team at dRi. Before joining dRi, she did her internship on SERAC-Bangladesh in the Program Development team and honed her skills of proposal writing there and also worked as an organizer in their flagship event Bangladesh National Youth Conference on Family Planning (BNYCFP)’. She has sound knowledge of Microsoft Office (Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint), In-depth Interviews (IDI), Focused Group Discussion (FGD), KII (Key Informant Interviews), Questionnaire Design, and Qualitative, Quantitative and Mixed-Method research approach.
She pursued her BSS (Hons.) and MSS degree in Development Studies from the Bangladesh University of Professionals. She did her undergrad thesis on the topic “Reasons behind Occupational Choice of Female Domestic Workers in Dhaka City”. Apart from that, she engaged herself in multiple individual research projects since her first year at the university.Along with academics she engaged herself with multiple voluntary organizations, Youth Policy Forum (YPF), the Development Leaders’ Club (DLC) and the United Nations Youth and Students Association Bangladesh (UNYSAB) are some of them. She is interested in gender inequality, poverty and inequality, education, and climate change-related issues.
Raju Ahammed
Senior Finance and Admin Officer- I
Raju Ahammed has graduated with a Master’s in Islamic History and Culture from Rajshahi University. His responsibilities as a senior finance and administrative officer includes day to day administrative and financial issues, finance and accounts related activities including banking, keeping records of all types of inventory, preparing financial reports for the donors as required, maintaining communication with different donors for various research projects and communication with other organizations. He has also experience in conducting social research including quantitative and qualitative research tool development, field management, data processing and analysis. He has almost 16 years of programme implementation experience in Targeting the ultra-poor (TUP) & research experience in resettlement, rehabilitation and livelihood restoration of development interventions, gender and women empowerment, urban poverty, urban slums dwellers, disaster management, climate change and local adaptation strategies, food security and social safety-net issues. He worked with donor agencies including BRAC, BRAC University, Institute of Development Studies (IDS), University of Manchester, World Bank, World Food Program (WFP), Save the Children, Oxfam, Overseas Development Institute (ODI), Center for Policy Dialogue (CPD) and other local and international organizations.
Tohidul Islam
Accounts and Finance Officer
Tohidul Islam, an accomplished finance professional, holds an M. Com in Accounting from the National University and boasts over 15 years of experience spanning Finance, Administration, and Operations. Currently, he works at Development Research Initiatives (dRi). He has experience in Books of Accounts and financial statements, meticulous payroll and tax management, and the overall financial monitoring of projects.
Prior to his role at dRi, he worked at renowned organizations such as FHI 360 and AED. His dedication and proficiency in financial management have been assets to the success of these organizations. He also contributed to the growth and prosperity of Technohaven Company Ltd., where his financial acumen played a vital role in achieving the company’s objectives.
Md. Wahab Ali
Admin Officer
Md. Wahab Ali has an MBA (Accounting) from Institute of Govt. Bangla Collage under Dhaka University. He has been working as an Admin Officer for two years. Before that he worked as a Research Assistant and Back Checker for dRi in different research projects for three years. His current job responsibility includes day to day administrative issues, supporting research teams deployed in different projects, assisting Senior Finance and Admin Officer in his tasks etc. For dRi he had opportunity to work with various national and international organizations including The World Bank, The World Fish, SNV, Save the Children, GRIPS, BRAC etc. in different research projects.
Jubaida Islam
HR Officer
Ms. Jubaida Islam joined dRi as a Research Assistant after completing her Bachelor’s Degree from American International University – Bangladesh. She has been successfully supporting research teams that deploy qualitative and quantitative methodologies in a number of projects. Her research experiences cover different sectors such as education, child marriage, child abuse and exploitation, legal rights and social development. Her expertise includes data processing and transcription of qualitative information.
Adin Khan
Intern
Adin Khan has completed his Bachelors in Science (B.Sc.) in Statistics from Government Titumir College. He is an aspiring data analyst with a strong interest in research, data-driven problem-solving, and practical applications of technology. He has hands-on experience with tools like Python, Microsoft Excel, STATA and SPSS, and is steadily building expertise in data cleaning, analysis, and visualization.
Alongside his academic background, Adin has over five years of experience as a private tutor, which has strengthened his communication and critical reasoning skills. He also possesses practical experience in graphic design and 3D visualization, using tools such as Adobe Photoshop, illustrator, Blender and 3DS Max to produce structured, minimalist visuals for personal and project-based work.
Md Ashraful Alam
Intern
Md Ashraful Alam holds both BSS and MSS degrees in International Relations from Gopalganj Science and Technology University (GSTU). He is a passionate researcher with a strong academic background and hands-on experience in journalism and research.He has contributed to various research initiatives focusing on topics such as student movements, policy research, and India-Bangladesh diplomatic relations. He also participated in an international seminar organized by the Foreign Academy of Bangladesh titled “The Rohingyas in Bangladesh: In Search of a Sustainable Future.”Ashraful has extensive experience in journalism, having worked as a Campus Correspondent for national media outlets such as Daily Amader Shomoy and BD24Live, and as a Sub-Editor for The Daily Campus. These roles helped him develop skills in data collection, reporting, analysis, fieldwork, and social documentation, which are highly valuable in the field of development research.He has been recognized for his work with awards including “Best Reporter” by the Vice Chancellor of GSTU and “Best Feature Writer” by the GSTU Journalists Association. Proficient in Microsoft Office, SPSS, and video editing, Ashraful brings a diverse set of technical and communication skills to the research and consultancy space.With a combination of academic knowledge, field experience, and a strong interest in social research, he is well-equipped to contribute as a Research Intern at dRi.
Md. Hafigur Rahman
Sr. Office Assistant
Md. Hafigur Rahman is working as a Senior Office Assistant at dRi for 08 years. He has completed BA (Hons) and responsible for assisting senior managers and executives with their daily organizational tasks.He schedules both personal and professional tasks that the executive needs to complete. This involves organizing tasks by level of urgency, taking calls etc. He is also responsible for performing travel arrangements and reservations for senior managers and researchers.
Md. Ariful Islam
Office Assistant
Md. Ariful Islam is a high school graduate and working as a Junior Office Assistant at dRi for 06 years. His responsibilities include assisting the Senior Office Assistant in administrative activities.
Md. Tyzul Islam
Caretaker
Md. Tyzul Islam is working as the Caretaker of dRi since 2018.
Kholesha
Cleaner
Kholesha is working at dRi as a Cleaner. She has joined dRi in 2018.