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.
Water, Sanitation and Hygiene
Climate Change, Agriculture, and Food Security
Education
Responsibilities
Develop new projects and partnerships with collaborators.
Conduct qualitative research, desk research, and quantitative analysis to inform research.
Supervise research design, data collection, and analysis activities for DIL-India projects.
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 documents.
Strong communication, and presentation skills
Knowledge of and experience with fieldwork 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)
References Contact Information (3) (required)
Work sample (required)