š« Early Academic Pursuits
Dr. Laeek Ahemad Siddiquiās journey into the realm of population studies began with a deep interest in social sciences and a commitment to addressing societal disparities. Driven by a desire to investigate the socioeconomic factors affecting mobility, education, and health, Dr. Siddiqui pursued a Ph.D. in Population Studies. During this time, he honed his expertise in intergenerational education and occupational mobility, focusing on the intricate links between family background, social class, and access to opportunities. His academic foundation provided a robust platform for his later work at the International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), Mumbai, where he would make substantial contributions in demographic research and social policy.
š¼ Professional Endeavors at IIPS
As a Research Scientist at the Centre of Demography of Gender, International Institute for Population Sciences, Dr. Siddiqui has immersed himself in meaningful work addressing gender-based disparities, social mobility, and education. His role at IIPS involves conducting rigorous empirical research, publishing in high-impact journals, and serving as co-principal investigator (co-PI) on an Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR)-funded project. Beyond research, he has organized national and international workshops, collaborating closely with UNESCO to broaden discussions on education and social mobility. Dr. Siddiqui’s engagements extend internationally; he has been invited as a keynote speaker for UNESCO and UN events, where he has highlighted the importance of policy-informed research and data-driven solutions in tackling global issues of social inequality.
š Contributions and Research Focus
Dr. Siddiqui’s research portfolio is marked by pioneering studies in social mobility, maternal and child health, aging, and educational mobility across generations. His groundbreaking work in multigenerational education mobility in India stands out as an exemplary contribution. He is the first Indian researcher to use both quantitative and qualitative primary data, encompassing three generations, to explore the dynamics of educational and occupational mobility within families. His innovative approach also extends to secondary data sources, where he utilized the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI) to examine educational mobility specifically among women across biologically connected generations.
A major highlight of his research is his influential paper published in the Economic and Political Weekly (EPW), where he revealed the intersection between social class and aging. This work sheds light on disparities in aging experiences based on social stratification, adding a unique perspective to the literature on aging and inequality. Through his studies, Dr. Siddiqui has contributed significantly to understanding how gender and social factors impact life outcomes across generations.
š Accolades and Recognition
Dr. Siddiqui’s dedication and research have not gone unnoticed. His recent work has been shortlisted for the Best Researcher Award and the Best Paper Award for its insightful analysis of three generations of biologically connected women in India, examining their educational mobility across time. This recognition underscores his role as a thought leader in social mobility research. Dr. Siddiquiās affiliations with key professional organizations, including the Indian Association for the Study of Population (IASP), Population Association of America (PAA), and the International Union for the Scientific Study of Population (IUSSP), further demonstrate his commitment to advancing demographic research and connecting with a global academic community. His involvement with the Indian Sociological Society also reflects his interdisciplinary approach, which blends population studies with broader social sciences.
š Impact and Influence
Dr. Siddiquiās work has far-reaching implications. By exploring how education and occupation trajectories evolve across generations, he has provided valuable insights for policymakers aiming to reduce social inequalities and enhance access to education. His research on gender and intergenerational mobility particularly addresses the challenges faced by women in navigating educational opportunities and occupational advancement. His policy briefs and collaborations with UNESCO contribute to the formulation of initiatives that tackle systemic barriers in education and social mobility, with the ultimate goal of promoting equitable development in India and beyond.
His research has made substantial contributions to Scopus-indexed journals, where his work is widely referenced, with a Google Scholar citation index of 51 and Scopus citations totaling 23. These metrics underscore the academic influence of his research and highlight the relevance of his findings in both academia and policy-making circles. Dr. Siddiqui’s dedication to data-driven, evidence-based solutions has allowed him to collaborate on two consultancy projects, lending his expertise to initiatives that align with his commitment to impactful social research.
š Legacy and Future Contributions
As Dr. Siddiqui continues his work at the Centre of Demography of Gender, he envisions a future where his research will influence generations of scholars, policymakers, and advocates. By addressing core issues of social mobility and inequality, he aims to establish a legacy that inspires more research into the links between gender, education, and socioeconomic outcomes. With forthcoming book chapters and additional high-impact publications, he is set to expand the literature on intergenerational mobility, pushing for a better understanding of the social dynamics at play within families and communities.
Dr. Siddiquiās work holds the potential to inspire reforms in educational policy and social development programs. His pioneering efforts in multigenerational studies, especially with a gendered lens, serve as a model for future demographic research. As he explores new methodologies and collaborations, Dr. Siddiquiās commitment to population studies and social change stands as a testament to the power of research in promoting a fairer, more inclusive society.