Research Manager, Development Innovation Lab- Chicago

About the Department

The Development Innovation Lab 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. It was founded and is led by Nobel laureate Michael Kremer.

Job Summary

DIL is seeking a full-time Research Manager to work with the faculty director (Michael Kremer) and other researchers on development economics research projects. The researcher manager will work with DIL’s lead researchers to manage a portfolio of projects. 

Responsibilities

• Work closely with Lead Researchers and DIL Directors to: 
• Oversee the research process, including supervising data collection activities for DIL projects, conducting qualitative research, desk research, and quantitative analysis to inform research design, and ensuring rigorous research quality 
• Manage project operations and administration for their projects. Responsibilities may include IRB, new proposal development, contracting, budgeting, donor reporting and communication, grants management, and project finance.
• Lead communications with DIL partners; write proposals and other research outputs 
• Build research work programs and track progress against them
• Manage DIL staff including Research Professionals and Research Associates; recruit and train new DIL staff 
• Manage high-level relationships with DIL partners including governments, non-profit organizations, and donors; develop new research collaborations for the organization 
• Provide input on cross-cutting lab activities or DIL public goods as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in economics, public policy, or a related field by the start of the position.
• Knowledge of and experience with field work in developing countries
• Experience conducting research including managing research teams 
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience 

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience conducting randomized control trials.
• Experience managing or creating project budgets
• Graduate-level training in economics and econometrics
• Work experience in countries where DIL has an expanding research portfolio (Kenya, India, Uganda, Nigeria, Colombia, Peru, Dominican Republic)

Behavioral Requirements

• Excellent organizational skills and high-level of attention to detail
• Strong cross-cultural communication skills 

Working Conditions

Candidates must be willing to travel extensively and flexibly as needed for their respective responsibilities.