(Research Assistant)

Biography:

Nawaj Sarif is a researcher in population studies whose work examines the dynamic interplay between urban growth, migration, and spatial demography. His doctoral research at the International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), Mumbai, investigates the phenomenon of urban shrinkage in India, analyzing its underlying drivers and socio-economic consequences. By integrating geospatial techniques with population statistics, satellite-based night-light data and field survey data, his research offers novel insights into the evolving spatial patterns of urban shrinkage. With a passion for understanding the intersections of population and place, Nawaj’s expertise extends beyond urban studies to encompass population aging, disaster resilience, and climate change. His methodological approach reflects a commitment to blending empirical rigor with spatial storytelling, evident in his publications in leading journals such as Cities, Natural Hazards, and Journal of Aging and Social Policy. Currently, Nawaj is a Research Assistant at the Centre de Sciences Humaines (CSH), IFI, working with Dr. Christophe Z. Guilmoto. His work involves developing micro-level spatial datasets and conducting advanced mapping and analysis to uncover spatial patterns of demographic change. His technical proficiency spans a range of GIS and statistical tools, including ArcGIS Pro, QGIS, GeoDa, Stata, RStudio, and SPSS, positioning him at the forefront of spatial demography. With a strong foundation in both geography and population studies, Nawaj continues to explore the complex interplay between people, space, and society, aiming to contribute insights that inform sustainable urban development and population well-being.

CV Nawaj Sarif

Publications:

• • Nawaj Sarif and Archana K. Roy (2024) Measuring urban shrinkage in India using night-light data from DMSP-OLS and VIIRS-NPP satellite sensors. Cities, 152 (105176). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cities.2024.105176
  • Nawaj Sarif, A.H. Sruthi Anil Kumar, Papai Barman, Md. Juel Rana and Sunil Saha, (2024) Measuring hazard-free improved shelter across the regions of India. Natural Hazards. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11069-024-06522-3
  • Nawaj Sarif and Archana K. Roy (2024) Urbanization and the Growth Trajectory of Urban Centers in India. Demography India, 53 (1), 91-103.
  • Nawaj Sarif and Archana K. Roy (2024) The paradox of urban decline in India. International Journal of Population Studies. DOI: https://doi.org/10.36922/ijps.3107
  • Nawaj Sarif, A.H. Sruthi Anil Kumar, Aditi Chakraborty and Nilesh J. Yadav (2023) Population Aging in India: A Micro-level Estimate using Gridded Population Data. Journal of Aging and Social Policy. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/08959420.2023.2255490