Department

Becker Friedman Institute – Development Innovation Lab

About the Department

The Development Innovation Lab (DIL) 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. DIL was founded and is led by Nobel laureate Michael Kremer.

DIL is launching a new Innovation Commission for Climate Change, Food Security and Agriculture, chaired by Professor Kremer. The Commission will convene an independent and high-level group of former heads of state, finance ministers, and private sector leaders to promote innovations related to agriculture and food security in the context of climate change.

Job Summary

This position participates in scientific research projects. Ensures compliance of research activities with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies, procedures, directives and mandates. Analyzes possible solutions using standard procedures. Writes articles, reports and manuscripts. Assists in drafting presentations on research findings.

Responsibilities

• Analyzes policy challenges such as climate adaptation and mitigation and low agricultural productivity.
• Drafts evidence syntheses, drawing on evidence from academic publications, and translates technical language faithfully for a policy audience.
• Economic appraisal, including cost-benefit analysis, of innovation proposals.
• Assesses biological, social, and technological innovations with the potential to address challenges of climate change, food security, and agricultural productivity.
• Collaborates with researchers, innovators, and funders on recommendations for the most impactful investments in agriculture, climate change, and food security as well as the most appropriate mechanisms to bring those interventions to scale, including written reports, presentations, etc.
• Travels for policy engagements and other related activities, as needed.
• Takes responsibility for the following non-laboratory duties: transcribing and coding data; developing data collection instruments; presenting research; and recruiting and scheduling research subjects. Acquires higher-level skills and knowledge in the process.
• Takes responsibility for the following laboratory duties: recognizing abnormal results and varying conditions or procedures to correct problems; setting up and performing experiments. Analyze the meaning, significance, causes, and effects of the subject.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

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Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

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Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Master’s degree in economics or related field.

Experience:

• 5 years of work experience with at least 4 years in economics and public policy roles.

Preferred Competencies

• Careful understanding of economic incentives and creatively apply economic principles to policy challenges.
• Curiosity and interest in climate change and agriculture.
• Excellent analytical and critical-thinking skills.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Manage and prioritize multiple projects simultaneously.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

FLSA Status

Exempt

Pay Frequency

Monthly

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Benefits Eligible

Yes

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Staff 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.

We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange.

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