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 Ministry of Jal Shakti and other collaborators to identify and test safe water solutions that could be deployed at scale. Our estimates suggest that safe water solutions could save the lives of up to 136,000 children annually in India.

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. DIL is recruiting multiple Lead Researchers with backgrounds in the following sectors or topics:  
  • Water, Sanitation and Hygiene 
  • Climate Change, Agriculture, and Food Security 
  • Education

Responsibilities

  • Supervise research design, data collection, and analysis activities for DIL-India projects.
  • Conduct qualitative research, desk research, and quantitative analysis to inform research.
  • Set 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.

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 rigorous evaluation
  • Manage a team of research staff and draft evidence-based policy document.
  • Strong communication, and presentation skills 
  • Knowledge of and experience with field work in developing countries, preferably including running randomized control trials.

Working Conditions

  • Based in Delhi or near project locations with regular travel to state capitals and Delhi. 
  • Occasional travel to the United States
  • Applicant must be legally authorized to work in India

Application Documents

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

Apply Online