About the Department
The Development Innovation Lab at the University of Chicago uses the tools of economics to develop innovations with the potential to benefit millions of people in low- and middle-income countries. It was founded and is led by Nobel laureate Michael Kremer.
Job Summary
The Development Innovation Lab (DIL) at the University of Chicago is seeking a full-time Research Lead to contribute to development economics research and policy projects across the Lab.
Research priorities will be set in conversation with the Faculty Director and DIL senior leadership.
Responsibilities
Research (60%)
- Work closely with the Faculty Director, DIL leaders, and research collaborators to oversee and manage research projects
- Collaborate and coordinate with researchers on joint research efforts and cross-cutting initiatives
- Perform advanced data analysis to support research objectives
- Train, supervise, and support DIL research staff conducting research, including up to 1-2 Research Professionals or Predoctoral Associates
- Substantially contribute to research publications, protocols, and grant proposals
- Facilitate and promote advanced research projects by providing scientific and intellectual input
- Guides data collection activities and manage complex datasets for research and policy projects
- Serve as a resource for data collection and analytical processes
- Uses subject matter and best practices knowledge to perform lab and/or research-related duties and tasks. Works independently to assist with project design.
- Guides data collection, evaluation and analysis. Designs and manages databases. Writes reports, articles and manuscripts.
Policy (15%)
- Work with the Faculty Director and DIL Leaders to support and develop DIL’s policy work in countries of operation
- Manage partnerships relevant to DIL’s policy work and provide analytical support to policy work
- Support new initiatives (such as weather or education policy) which require knowledge of economic theory and advanced economics training
Support to the Weiss Fund for Research in Development Economics (15%)
- Provide specialized research support to and reviews for the Weiss Fund for Research in Development Economics, including overseeing self nominations for new researchers, compiling committee reviews, and reviewing applicants to the Junior Researcher Fellowship.
Cross-Cutting Lab Support (10%)
- Contribute to cross-lab and Lab priorities such as research and policy staff hiring, organization of research and policy events, and other activities as assigned
- Mentor junior research and policy staff members
- Build and maintain relationships crucial to organizational success and research advancement
Minimum Qualifications
Education
- Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in a related field.
Experience
- Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related discipline.
Preferred Qualifications
Education
- PhD in economics or related field
- PhD level training in the methods of economics
Experience
- 7+ years of work experience in a related field
- Knowledge of and experience running randomized control trials.
- Prior experience working on randomized evaluations, development economics research, and/or public policy in developing countries.
- Proven record of writing and publishing rigorous evaluations.
Technical Skills or Knowledge:
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Excellent organizational, time, and project management skills, with the proven ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
- Curiosity and interest in agriculture, education, and safe water
- Team player with excellent interpersonal skills
Working Conditions
- Perform tasks mostly indoors in an office setting.
- Work independently for periods of eight (8) hours or more.
- Candidates must be willing to travel for their respective responsibilities (around 30% internationally).
Application Documents
- Resume/CV (required)
- Research Statement (required)
- Professional References Contact Information (3)(required)