Department
SSD Development Economics Center: Staff and Temporary Employees

Job Summary
The job manages scientific research projects or scientific research facilities. Uses considerable on-the-job experience to ensure compliance of research activities with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies. Works independently to write articles, reports and manuscripts, and presents research findings at meetings and/or conferences.

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

• 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.
• Work with the Faculty Director and DIL Leaders to support and develop DIL's policy work in countries of operation.
• Support new initiatives (such as weather or education policy) which require knowledge of economic theory and advanced economics training.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

Work Experience:
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• PhD in economics or related field.
• PhD level training in the methods of economics.

Experience:

• Seven 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)

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family
Research

Role Impact
Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours
37.5

Drug Test Required
No

Health Screen Required
No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
No

Pay Rate Type
Salary

FLSA Status
Exempt

Pay Range
$73,000.00 - $95,000.00
The included pay rate or range represents the University's good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible
Yes
The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.