Lead Researcher

About the Trust

The University of Chicago Trust (the Trust) is a charitable trust in India, established in 2008 by an alumnus of The University of Chicago. The objectives of the UChicago Trust are to provide opportunities for grants to support educational programs, research programs and activities for the betterment of India.

The Development Innovation Lab – India (DIL-India)

DIL-India, based at the Trust in India, is dedicated to using the tools of economics to benefit millions of people. We work across sectors like health, education, agriculture, climate change, road safety, and others. We do so by collaborating with government agencies, firms, and non-profits in India to identify, test, and scale evidence-based solutions. 

DIL-India has a fast-growing portfolio of policy relevant research. For example, DIL-India is working closely with the Government of Andhra Pradesh to evaluate the impact of its personalized adaptive learning program at scale.

Position Description DIL-India is seeking a staff researcher to collaborate closely with the Nobel Laureate Michael Kremer of the Development Innovation Lab (DIL) and other researchers on development economics research projects.

  • Water, Sanitation and Hygiene 
  • Climate Change, Agriculture, and Food Security 
  • Education
  • Road safety

Responsibilities

  • Develop new projects and partnerships with collaborators.
  • Conduct qualitative research, desk research, and quantitative analysis to inform research.
  • Responsible for research design, data collection, and analysis activities for DIL-India projects as well as guiding and mentoring Predoctoral Associates and Research Associates.
  • Establish research priorities in conversation with collaborators.
  • Draft and review knowledge products at various stages of research, including policy briefs and journal articles.
  • Participate and contribute to meetings and technical discussions with internal and external stakeholders.
  • All other tasks as assigned.

Qualifications

Education:

  • PhD in economics, public policy, public health or related field by the start of the position, preferred.
  • PhD-level training in the methods of economics

Experience:

  • 5 or more years’ experience required, PhD can count for 3 years of experience.

Competencies

  • Proven record of writing and publishing academic research
  • Manage a team of research staff and draft evidence-based policy documents.
  • Strong communication and presentation skills 
  • Knowledge of and experience with field work in developing countries, preferably including running randomized control trials.

Working Conditions

  • Occasional travel to the United States
    
Applicant must be legally authorized to work in India

Application Documents

  • Resume/CV (required)
  • Cover Letter (required)
  • Professional References’ Contact Information (3 required)
  • Work sample (required)

Apply Online