Development Economics Research Fellow
POSITION FILLED
FACULTY SUPERVISOR:
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
Professor Rohini Pande, Henry J. Heinz II Professor of Economics, Director of the Economic Growth Center and Inclusion Economics at Yale University, is looking to hire one or more highly skilled and motivated pre-doctoral research fellows to work as part of her research team. The position will involve assistance with all stages of empirical research in international development and gender economics.
The studies typically explore evidence-driven, policy-relevant research questions related to inclusion in India and Nepal. Studies are varied in both question and method, with current work including research exploring how communicating flood warnings to specific gatekeepers in vulnerable communities can improve mitigation measures; how closing information asymmetries among bureaucrats and politicians affects service delivery; informing Nepal’s political transition to federalism; and exploring and reducing the gender gap in access to mobile technology, financial services, and economic opportunities.
Fellows are exposed to cutting-edge topics and research methods in this area. This position is data-intensive, and the selected candidate will be expected to analyze survey data, administrative data, and intervention monitoring data. Good writing skills are valued. Fellows join in weekly lab meetings and benefit from opportunities to work with Professor Pande and academic economists at Yale and other universities. The position is offered for one year, with a strong preference for a second year renewal. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, particularly women, people of color and other marginalized communities which have historically been underrepresented in the field of economics.
Responsibilities for this position include:
• Cleaning and managing large datasets;
• Conducting statistical analyses of data using Stata;
• Preparing literature reviews, background research, and other draft content for grant proposals and academic papers;
• Drafting project reports, slide-decks, research protocols, and other project documents;
• Working with field research teams, including travel to study sites (South Asia, multiple sites)
REQUISITE SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:
• Strong quantitative background: This could include Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Economics, Data Science, International Development, or other degrees with substantial quantitative coursework
• Strong computer skills including programming in Stata and/or R
• Strong academic record and interest in pursuing a PhD in economics
• Strong interest in public policy and economic development research, with a focus on India
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written
• Ability to work independently
• Willingness to travel to South Asia, including rural areas
Prior experience as a research assistant in Economics or a related field is preferred. Applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis.
SPECIAL APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
In addition to completing the Tobin application form, please also fill out the Inclusion Economics Screening Questionnaire: https://forms.gle/eMxgx2CeYPsKL65w5.