Padmini Iyer

Padmini Iyer is a highly experienced professional specializing in research, analysis, and advocacy in conflict, migration, and development. Currently serving as a Visiting Fellow at the Feinstein International Center at Tufts University, Iyer also holds the position of Research Lead for Conflict & Fragility at Oxfam from January 2023 to August 2025. Previously, Iyer worked as a Senior Research Coordinator at SAHAN, overseeing projects for the European Union Emergency Trust Fund, and as a Regional Conflict Analysis Coordinator at the Danish Refugee Council, contributing to programs across East Africa. Academic experience includes roles as a Visiting Research Associate at Rutgers University and consultancy work with the Karamoja Resilience Support Unit. Iyer holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology from Rutgers University, along with a Master's degree in the same field and a Bachelor's degree in Human Evolutionary Biology from Columbia University, complemented by a BA in French and Francophone Studies from Jawaharlal Nehru University.