Research Specialist - University of Chicago

Summary of the organization

For over a century, the Kenneth C. Griffin Department of Economics at the University of Chicago has been recognized as one of the world's leading centers for economic research and education. The Department's faculty have received numerous awards, including more Nobel Prize laureates and John Bates Clark medalists in economics than any other university. Among our faculty are many members of the National Academy of Sciences, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and the Econometric Society.

Summary of the role

Directly reporting to Professor Christina Brown, the Research Specialist will be a part of the vibrant research environment of the Kenneth C. Griffin Department of Economics at The University of Chicago. The Research Specialists will assist with development economics research projects, focused on labor markets, education and health. The ideal candidate will be a self-starter who thrives working both independently, with minimal supervision, and as a part of small research teams, juggling multiple projects concurrently. The Research Specialists’ responsibilities will span all stages of research, writing and administering surveys, cleaning and organizing data, conducting statistical analyses, running simulations, and preparing manuscripts and presentations. The position offers a hybrid schedule of on-campus and remote workdays and a commitment of one year with the possibility of renewal.

Responsibilities

• Support the Principal Investigators (PIs) in the implementation of development economics research, including randomized control trials in South Asia. Collaborate with research teams on the university campus and abroad.
• Handle the cleaning and management of complex data collected from various sources. Maintain a high standard of data quality through rigorous application of high-frequency data checks.
• Apply advanced statistical techniques and coding skills to interpret data and analyze results. Deliver insightful and timely reports to support decision-making regarding the ongoing projects. 
• Play a pivotal role in preparing, developing, and coding survey instruments, ensuring they are well-structured and aligned with the research objectives.
• Conducts literature reviews. Assists with preparation of reports and manuscripts.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Qualifications

• Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in a related field. A bachelor’s or master’s degree in economics, public policy or related field is preferred.
• Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Competencies

• Expertise in using statistical analysis packages such as Stata (preferred), R or Python.
• Work both independently, in a self-directed manner, and as a team member.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to produce clear and compelling written materials geared towards technical and non-technical audiences.
• Mature, self-directed individual with the ability to balance multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in order to meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced working environment.
• Work efficiently with minimal supervision.
• Excellent organizational skills and high attention to detail.
• Strong interest in development economics.