Predoctoral Associate
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 agriculture, water, or 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 education, safe water, agriculture, climate change, road safety, health, 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 collaborating 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. DIL-India is also working with the Government of Andhra Pradesh to test the impact of personalized adaptive learning on student outcomes in secondary schools across the state. Additionally, DIL-India works closely with the Ministry of Earth Sciences to support the dissemination of improved AI-based monsoon onset forecasts to 52.8 million Indian farmers.
Position Description
The Trust and DIL-India are seeking full-time Predoctoral Associates to support the development of economics research projects in India in collaboration with Michael Kremer and other researchers. The Predoctoral Associate would support scoping and research implementation efforts for DIL India’s projects in education, weather forecasting/digital agriculture, safe water and other areas. In the near term, the role will involve supporting field implementation and research activities for projects in Telangana related to weather forecasting, heat-risk forecasts, farmer decision-making, as well as qualitative research on numeracy and probability training of farmers.
In addition to contributing substantially to DIL-India’s research as a Predoctoral Associate, this role is designed with training and mentorship for candidates with an interest in pursuing doctoral programs in economics and/or related fields. Predoctoral associates will have an opportunity to engage with important development stakeholders in India, understand public programs in these sectors, and work with different data sources. The role is designed to aid pre-doctoral associates in preparation for their Ph.D. and offers valuable exposure to assist in determining the possible pursuit of a different professional path.
Responsibilities
Support the design and implementation of research under the direction of the collaborating PI and research teams.
Lead data quality assurance efforts for studies
Collect, record, and analyze data from field activities.
Help identify and develop new opportunities and projects in partnership with collaborators and researchers at DIL-India and the Trust
Manage relationships with partner organizations
Conduct literature reviews.
Participate in writing reports and manuscripts.
Ensure compliance with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies, procedures, directives, and mandates.
Transcribe and code data; develop data collection instruments.
Present research findings at staff meetings, seminars, and scientific conferences.
Assist with building databases.
Recruit and schedule research subjects.
Maintain technical and administrative support for a research project.
Conducting other relevant project management tasks, as needed.
Qualifications
Education
A bachelor’s or master’s degree in Economics, Mathematics, Public Policy, Engineering, Environment Policy or Science or other field.
Experience
One to two years of relevant research experience, which may include experience while in school.
Advanced knowledge of research techniques and methods in relevant scientific fields.
Experience working, studying, or spending significant time in developing countries or strong demonstrated interest in doing so.
Exemplary academic credentials (Distinction or First Division or equivalent) and consistent record of performance
Demonstrated ability to independently manage components of field research projects, including research design, data analysis, and engaging with government or other implementation stakeholders is preferred
Competencies
Excellent management and organizational skills, along with strong quantitative skills.
Flexible, self-motivating, able to manage multiple tasks efficiently, and a team player.
Strong written and oral communication and presentation skills; able to communicate complex ideas clearly and succinctly
Excellent data management, cleaning, and analysis skills.
Strong demonstrated interest in the development sector.
Knowledge of research techniques and methods in relevant scientific fields.
Understanding and knowledge of impact evaluations, particularly randomized controlled trials.
Excellent data management, cleaning, and analysis skills.
Familiarity with Stata/R is required, and experience with SurveyCTO is preferred.
Fluency in both English and Hindi. Fluency (at least spoken) in Telugu is preferred.
Knowledge of impact evaluations, particularly randomized controlled trials, is preferred.
Working Conditions
The position will be based in Hyderabad, Delhi or other project sites.
Candidates must be flexible and able to travel extensively across India as per the requirements of their assignments.
Possible travel to the United States
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in India.
This is a one-year position with the possibility of renewal. While the initial appointment is for one year, we have a strong preference for candidates who are able to commit to the role for at least two years, subject to performance and project needs.
Application Documents
Resume/CV (required)
Cover Letter (required)
Transcripts (Undergraduate and Graduate Transcripts)
GRE scores (can be placed on resume/CV) if candidate has taken the exam
References Contact Information (3 required. Preferred at least 1 reference from a work supervisor for those candidates with work experience.)
The anticipated start date for this position is between July-August 2026. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. Candidates will continue to be screened on a rolling basis until the position is filled.