Field Research Intern - UC San Diego Economics

Organization:
Location:
  • Mozambique
Start Date (Earliest):

Summary of the Organization

This position is with development economists at the University of California San Diego. The Principal Investigators include Dr Sara Lowes, Fulvia Budillon and Andre Gray. The position will involve field work in Inhambane Province, Mozambique.

Summary of the Role

The internship is to assist a research project studying the integration of traditional healers into the formal healthcare system in Mozambique. Many rural households seek out healthcare from informal providers that treat patients using local knowledge of plants and indigenous practices. The project investigates whether training these traditional healers to recognize and refer severe illness cases to conventional healthcare facilities can increase patient visits to clinics and hospitals and improve healthcare outcomes. The study is implemented in collaboration with local university and NGO partners and involves extensive fieldwork in Inhambane, Mozambique. All expenses covered (travel, accommodation, and field-related costs), in addition to a summer stipend.

Responsibilities

  • Managing the daily activities of a team of Portuguese-speaking field enumerators (leading training sessions, preparing and piloting survey materials, ensuring proper use of field and survey equipment).
  • Working with partners to develop survey instruments using Excel and Open Data Kit (ODK).
  • Developing training materials in collaboration with medical professionals
  • Conducting regular quality checks and monitoring project databases to ensure accuracy and consistency.
  • Collaborating with local implementation partners to ensure smooth execution of the project.
  • Communicating regularly with the Principal Investigators.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree (or currently completing one) in Economics, Development Studies, Public Policy, Political Science, Sociology or a related field.
  • Strong interest in development economics, public health, field research., and survey design.
  • Fluency in Portuguese and English (required).
  • Previous experience living and working in developing countries is highly preferred.
  • Strong initiative, ability to work independently
  • Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to manage groups of people and work effectively in a team.

How to Apply

Complete the J-PAL/IPA common application. After completing a brief registration, choose the Research job category, then select "Field Research Intern - UC San Diego Economics” and include resume, cover letter, transcripts, and two recommendation letters. Note that applications with incomplete submissions will not be considered.

You are able to submit your application before your references complete their recommendation letters; however, you must include their contact information before submitting your application. Given the volume of applications received, only short-listed candidates will be contacted for an interview.