Research Lead

University of Chicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious educational institution in Chicago seeks a full-time Research Lead to manage scientific research projects in development economics. The role involves overseeing projects, conducting advanced data analysis, and contributing to research publications. Candidates should possess a PhD in economics or a related field, with five to seven years of relevant work experience. Strong communication and project management skills are essential. Opportunities for international travel and collaboration with senior leadership are included.

Qualifications

• PhD-level training in the methods of economics.
• Five to seven years of work experience in a related job discipline.
• Knowledge of and experience running randomized control trials.

Responsibilities

• Manage scientific research projects ensuring compliance with regulations.
• Oversee and manage research projects with collaboration.
• Perform advanced data analysis to support research objectives.

Skills

Strong oral and written communication skills

Excellent organizational skills

Project management skills

Team player

Education

PhD in economics or related field

College or university degree in a related field

Job description

SSD Development Economics Center: Staff and Temporary Employees

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 role manages scientific research projects or research facilities, ensuring compliance with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies. The incumbent writes articles, reports, and manuscripts, and presents research findings at meetings and conferences. The Lab seeks a full‑time Research Lead to contribute to development economics research and policy projects, with priorities set in collaboration with the Faculty Director and 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.
• Guide 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 (e.g., weather or education policy) requiring 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.
• Use subject matter and best‑practice knowledge to perform lab and/or research‑related duties and tasks, working independently to assist with project design.
• Guide data collection, evaluation, and analysis; design and manage databases; write reports, articles, and manuscripts.
• Perform other related work as needed.

Qualifications

Education

• College or university degree in a related field (minimum).
• PhD in economics or related field.
• PhD‑level training in the methods of economics.

Experience

• Five to seven years of work experience in a related job discipline (minimum).
• Seven years of work experience in a related field (preferred).
• 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 responsibilities (around 30% internationally).

Equal‑Opportunity Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal‑opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773‑702‑5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form. All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.