Seeking guidance on industry roles in blockchain protocol / infrastructure (India & remote)

Hello everyone,

I’m a blockchain protocol engineer with a PhD background in applied cryptography and distributed systems, and recent industry R&D experience working with Ethereum execution clients (Nethermind) and consensus–execution integrations (including DAG-based BFT consensus research).

At the moment, I’m actively transitioning into industry roles focused on blockchain infrastructure, protocol engineering, or applied cryptography, preferably in India or remote. While adoption in India seems gradual, I’m keen to understand:

• Which types of companies or teams are currently hiring for real blockchain / crypto infra work

• How researchers with protocol backgrounds typically break into these roles

• Whether short-term consulting, contract work, or startup collaborations are a practical entry path right now

Any advice, pointers, or experiences would be greatly appreciated. Happy to share more details or continue the discussion privately if helpful.

Thanks in advance.