Mr. Ratnakar Jha is a socio-economist with more than five years of experience of working with the local government. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from University of Delhi (DU), New Delhi India. He holds dual master’s degrees, one in Development Economics and other in Sociology, from the South Asian University (University established by SAARC), New Delhi, India. He is also a former Liaison Officer at the Mayor’s secretariat in Biratnagar Metropolitan City. His extensive experience encompasses engaging with government bodies, NGOs, diplomatic missions, and international agencies, contributing to the socio-economic development of Nepal.

Richa holds her Master Degree in Urban Planning and she is an urban planner and architect specializing in policy research, sustainable urban development, and infrastructure planning. She has worked on various projects with NIURS, contributing to evidence-based policymaking and strategic urban planning in Nepal. 

Shirish Maharjan is an urban planner with a Master’s in Urban Planning from Pulchowk Campus, IOE, Tribhuvan University. She has been working with NIURS for several years, contributing to various research and studies in urban and regional planning. Her expertise includes urban development, spatial planning, and policy research, making her a valuable asset to the team.

Miss Thapa holds a Bachelor's degree in Public Health and has over five years of experience working in various capacities for distinguished projects with national and international agencies in Nepal. Her expertise includes program development, research design, and community engagement. She focuses on addressing gender-based violence, child protection, and adolescent sexual and reproductive health, promoting health equity and community empowerment through inclusive, evidence-based solutions.

Adeline Perkins is an intern in our International Internship Program, currently studying Civil and Environmental Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). She is a dedicated student with a strong academic record and a passion for environmental initiatives and community involvement.

Kaleigh Spears is an intern currently pursuing both a Master's in City Planning and a Bachelor of Science in Urban Science and Planning with a Computer Science concentration in Literature at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Her experience includes analyzing economic impacts of highway projects at the National Center for Infrastructure Transformation and contributing to urban planning and climate action initiatives for the City of Tucson. Kaleigh has also conducted research on urban heat and health and studied mobility patterns at the MIT Media Lab's City Science Group.

Neeva Nakarmi is a second-year French student at EIVP, a French urban engineering university. She is currently undertaking an internship in Nepal with NIURS, where her research focuses on Safa Tempo, an electric three-wheeler prevalent in the region. This work reflects her strong interest in sustainable mobility and urban resilience. As a civil servant in training, Neeva is set to join the City of Paris after her studies, where she aims to contribute to climate adaptation strategies and foster a more sustainable urban future.

Shovan Sharma is a vital member of the NIURS team, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations by handling essential tasks with efficiency and reliability. As our go-to support staff, he assists with document deliveries, office errands, and logistical coordination, helping maintain seamless workflow. His dedication, promptness, and proactive approach make him an indispensable part of our team.