Apprentices
Ashila Gurung
Jr. Operation Analyst
Ashila Gurung is a Junior Operation Analyst at the Institute for Integrated Development Studies
(IIDS). She holds a Master’s in Business Administration and has experience in operations,
stakeholder engagement, administrative coordination, and project management. Her interests
include development operations, institutional management, and evidence-based policy. In her free
time, she enjoys spending time in nature and engaging in community activities
Malisha Shrestha
Jr. Research Analyst
Malisha is a Renewable Energy Engineering graduate from Kingston University London with a strong interest in climate change, environmental research and sustainability development. She enjoys exploring real-world challenges, particularly solid waste management, air pollution, and the role of research in shaping policies and solutions. Driven by curiosity and passion for learning, she enjoys understanding why problems occur, analysing data, and finding practical ways to address them. She is always looking to contribute solving environmental and developmental challenges.
Pragya Raut
Jr. Research Analyst
Pragya Raut is a Junior Research Analyst at the Institute for Integrated Development Studies (IIDS). With a foundational background in architecture, she holds an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree centered on urban climate and sustainability. Pragya occasionally contributes to public dialogue on urban resilience and environmental issues through her writing and columns. At IIDS, she is dedicated to collaborating on impactful research that addresses community resilience and climate responsive development in Nepal.
Subhash Dhakal
Jr. Research Analyst
Subhash Sagar Mahesh Dhakal is a Junior Research Analyst at the Institute for Integrated Development Studies (IIDS), working with the Center for Human Assets on data analysis and quantitative research. He holds a BSc in Physics from Tribhuvan University and an MSc in Data Science and Computational Intelligence from Coventry University. His research interests include quantitative research, statistical analysis, data-driven development research, spatial and GIS analysis, and the application of machine learning to social and development issues. His academic research focused on assessing elderly vulnerability across Nepal using Census 2021 data and statistical and machine learning techniques. He has also gained field-level experience through his involvement in Nepal’s National Population and Housing Census 2021. He is interested in using data and computational methods to generate evidence that can support better research, policy, and development outcomes.
Dibya Karki
Jr. Research Assistant
Dibya Karki is an aspiring development enthusiast from Nepal with interests in sustainability, tourism, youth participation, and social impact studies. She actively engages in academic research, policy discussions, and youth-led initiatives that focus on creating meaningful change in society. With strong communication and analytical skills, she is passionate about contributing to innovative ideas, interdisciplinary learning, and community-oriented development.
Suchita Khadka
Jr. Research Assistant
Suchita Khadka is a master’s student in Media Studies at Kathmandu University School of Arts. After teaching primary school children in rural Dolakha, she developed a strong interest in educational accessibility and in strengthening public education across the country. Her work is further informed by her dissertation research on Media and Information Literacy (MIL), which underscores the need to focus on nurturing critical thinking from early education in an increasingly digitised, information-saturated world.
Subhanga Khanal
Jr. Research Assistant
Subhanga Khanal is a BSc Computing graduate with a passion for digital communication, creative storytelling, and technology. With experience in web development, digital content and media management, he enjoys transforming ideas into engaging digital experiences that connect with diverse audiences. He is driven by curiosity, creativity, and a commitment to continuous learning, always seeking new ways to communicate ideas effectively and make a meaningful contribution.
Arya Bashyal
Jr. Research Assistant
I’m a Mathematical Economics graduate from Gettysburg College with interests in economics, research, finance, and environmental policy. I enjoy using data and quantitative methods to explore real-world economic challenges and turn research into meaningful insights.
Chinar Thapa
Jr. Research Assistant
Chinar Thapa is a Junior Research Assistant at the Center for Economic Policy at the Institute for Integrated Development Studies (IIDS). She has an academic background in Economics and is particularly interested in economic policy, development, and evidence-based research. Her academic interests include macroeconomics, development economics, trade and investment. She enjoys understanding how economic ideas translate into real-world outcomes and is keen to continue developing her skills through research and practical experience. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, swimming, and exploring new ideas and experiences.
Dipika Bhusal
Jr. Research Assistant
Dipika Bhusal is an aspiring Graphic Designer with a strong interest in visual communication, UI/UX, and creative digital design. She enjoys transforming ideas into clear, engaging, and purposeful visual experiences. With hands-on experience in design projects and a growing proficiency in tools such as Photoshop, Figma, and other design platforms, she is passionate about continuously learning and developing her creative and professional skills. Through the IIDS Apprenticeship Program, she aims to gain valuable industry exposure, collaborate with professionals, and contribute meaningfully through design.