Senior Policy Associate- J-PAL Europe / Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR)

I. Job Summary

J-PAL Europe and the Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR) are seeking a (Senior) Policy Associate to lead policy outreach and support evidence-based policymaking efforts in Uzbekistan. The selected candidate will play a critical role in developing partnerships with key stakeholders, translating J-PAL’s research into actionable policy recommendations, and supporting the promotion of randomised evaluations in Uzbekistan. This position is based in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, based at CERR (terms and conditions of employment will be determined by CERR).

The (Senior) Policy Associate will work closely with the Principal Investigators (PIs), CERR, J-PAL Europe office, and partners to ensure that research findings are communicated effectively to policymakers and that an infrastructure to run randomised evaluations is developed in the country. The position also entails contributing to policy briefs, organising workshops and trainings, and facilitating collaborations that bring researchers and policymakers together.

II. Key Responsibilities

• Policy Development and Outreach
• Develop and maintain relationships with key partners in government, international organisations, non-profits, and the private sector to identify opportunities for rigorous evaluations.
• Create and disseminate policy materials, including evaluation summaries, policy briefs, and tailored presentations, ensuring that findings are accessible to stakeholders in Uzbekistan.
• Support the development of new partnerships to expand J-PAL’s work and foster a culture of evidence-based policymaking in Uzbekistan.
• Research and Communication
• Collaborate with J-PAL affiliates and the CERR team to translate complex research into actionable recommendations for policymakers.
• Draft blogs, op-eds, and other materials that showcase the impact of J-PAL’s work on policy in Uzbekistan.
• Organise and facilitate workshops, trainings, and seminars to increase the capacity of local policymakers and practitioners to engage with or manage rigorous impact evaluations.
• Project Management
• Provide project management support to ongoing evaluations, ensuring alignment with J-PAL’s standards and local policy needs.
• Monitor and report on the progress of evaluation projects to partners, funders, and J-PAL Europe.
• Assist in the development of new project proposals, including identifying funding opportunities and managing relationships with donors and partners.
• Fundraising and Capacity Building
• Identify and pursue fundraising opportunities to support new research and policy activities in Uzbekistan.
• Lead the planning and delivery of capacity-building activities aimed at increasing local stakeholders' understanding and use of evidence-based policymaking.
• Represent J-PAL at policy conferences, seminars, and bilateral meetings with key stakeholders to raise awareness of J-PAL’s work in the region.

III. Professional Development

As a (Senior) Policy Associate, you will gain valuable experience in policy outreach, relationship management, and project development, contributing to a vibrant network of researchers and policymakers. J-PAL provides numerous opportunities for professional growth, including:

• Access to J-PAL’s extensive network of researchers and development professionals.
• Training in cutting-edge research methodologies and impact evaluations.
• Travel opportunities to policy events and research sites in Uzbekistan.

IV. Qualifications

Your strong organisational and communication skills, technical expertise, passion for translating research into action, and interest in poverty reduction make you an ideal candidate for this role. 

Education: You hold a Master’s degree in economics, public policy, business administration or a closely related field, including coursework in microeconomics, econometrics, programme evaluation or organisational development. Candidates with Master’s-level degrees in other fields may be qualified as long as they have a strong and substantiated interest in quantitative research methods, including randomised evaluations. 

Experience: At least one or two years (three to fouryears for a Senior Policy Associate) of relevant work experience, including research or policy work related to impact evaluations. Experience in fundraising and project development will be considered an asset.

Skills: Strong project management skills, excellent written and oral communication skills in English and Uzbek (Russian is a strong advantage).

Communication: Ability to synthesise complex research into clear, actionable recommendations for non-experts.

Organisation: Proven ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and work independently.

Attitude: Passion for evidence-based policymaking and poverty reduction work, with a self-driven, collaborative mindset.

Job Description: (S)PA Uzbekistan.docx