Jai V. Indra
Evanston
Summary
Dual-degree student at Northwestern University (Journalism & Environmental Sciences / Education & Social Policy) pursuing a Global Health minor to deepen capacity to connect communities to the tools and knowledge they need to promote community resilience. Committed to environmental justice, social equity, and public health for marginalized communities. Experienced in investigative data journalism, community-based research, and policy analysis. Skilled in transforming complex environmental data into narratives that drive public impact. Learn more at jaiindra.com.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Junior Web Developer
School of Education and Social Policy, Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
05.2025 - Current
- Achieved optimal website performance by executing thorough copy and content editing processes with diligent fact-checking efforts.
- Collaborated with faculty to implement responsive design principles enhancing student engagement across platforms.
Data Collector (Extern)
Indigenous STEAM (ISTEAM)
Evanston, IL
06.2025 - 08.2025
- Collaborated with Indigenous researchers and community partners to collect and analyze data on culturally grounded environmental and educational initiatives.
- Assisted with youth and community programs focused on land and water-based education, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous well-being.
- Engaged with community stakeholders to foster trust and encourage participation in studies.
Investigative & Data Journalist
Medill Investigative Lab – Chicago, Medill School of Journalism
Chicago, IL
01.2025 - 06.2025
- Led FOIA requests to the Chicago Department of Water Management; analyzed lead service line replacement data to expose racial disparities in Chicago’s South and West Sides.
- Built ArcGIS interactive maps and data visualizations to communicate systemic environmental inequities to public audiences.
- Utilized field interviews with community members, policy experts, and researchers to produce investigative stories on environmental justice issues.
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Indigenous STEAM (ISTEAM), Northwestern University
01.2024 - 05.2025
- Conducted transcription and qualitative data coding for Indigenous-led science education studies.
- Contributed to community-centered research design focused on environmental education and well-being.
- Applied CARE Principles for Indigenous Data Governance and IRB-compliant research ethics protocols.
Repository & Digital Curation Aide
Northwestern University Library
Evanston, IL
11.2022 - 06.2023
- Digitized historical book collections and Chicago Transit Authority documents for public access.
- Worked as an editor for a national preservation guide sponsored by the Library of Congress.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Journalism and Environmental Sciences
Northwestern University, Medill School of Journalism
Evanston, IL06-2027
Bachelor of Science in Education And Social Policy - Social Policy
Northwestern University, School of Education And Social Policy
Evanston, IL06-2027
Minor - Global Health
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL06-2027
Skills
- Research & Reporting: Investigative Journalism, FOIA Requests, Community-Based Research, Policy Analysis, and IRB Protocols
- Data & Technical: Python, ArcGIS / GIS Mapping, Java, Python, JS, HTML, CSS, Web Development, API Integration, Responsive Design, and Digital Archiving
- Communication: Educational Materials Development, Copy & Content Editing, and Social Media
- Software: Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and Data Analytics Tools
Affiliations
- Prairie Cats NU (Ecological Restoration), Events Planner
- Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA), Student Member
- Society of Environmental Journalists, Student Member
- Northwestern University Asian American Student Journalists (AASJ)
- Northwestern University Native American and Indigenous Student Alliance (NAISA), Member
- Students for Ecological and Environmental Development (SEED), Member
Certification
- Human Research Protections (IRB) Basic
- Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR)
Timeline
Data Collector (Extern)
Indigenous STEAM (ISTEAM)
06.2025 - 08.2025
Junior Web Developer
School of Education and Social Policy, Northwestern University
05.2025 - Current
Investigative & Data Journalist
Medill Investigative Lab – Chicago, Medill School of Journalism
01.2025 - 06.2025
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Indigenous STEAM (ISTEAM), Northwestern University
01.2024 - 05.2025
Repository & Digital Curation Aide
Northwestern University Library
11.2022 - 06.2023
Bachelor of Science - Journalism and Environmental Sciences
Northwestern University, Medill School of Journalism
Bachelor of Science in Education And Social Policy - Social Policy
Northwestern University, School of Education And Social Policy
Minor - Global Health
Northwestern University
SELECTED PUBLISHED WORK
- “Environmental Justice Addresses the Disproportionate Effects of Air Pollution on Black and Latino Communities” – Reporting on nitrogen dioxide disparities, community health impacts, and policy advocacy in Chicago.
- “The Poison in Our Pipes: Lead Service Lines Remain in Chicago’s Most Vulnerable Communities” (Draft) – FOIA-driven investigative report on racial disparities in Chicago’s lead service line replacement program; sources include IEC senior policy staff.