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Research Specialst

  • Job
    Full-time
    Junior Level
  • Data
    Research & Development
  • Chicago
  • Quick Apply

AI generated summary

  • You need a degree in economics or related field, <2 years of relevant experience, skills in Stata/R/Python, strong communication, organization, and a keen interest in development economics.
  • You will support PIs in research, manage data quality, apply statistical techniques, handle IRB submissions, develop survey instruments, conduct literature reviews, and assist with reports and experiments.

Requirements

  • Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
  • Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
  • A bachelor’s or master’s degree in economics, public policy or related field.
  • Statistical analysis package such as Stata, R or Python.
  • Work both independently, in a self-directed manner, and as a team member.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to produce clear and compelling written materials geared towards technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Mature, self-directed individual, able to balance multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in order to meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced working environment.
  • Work efficiently with minimal supervision.
  • Excellent organizational skills and high attention to detail.
  • Strong interest in development economics.

Responsibilities

  • Supports the Principal Investigators (PIs) in the implementation of development economics research, including randomized control trials in South Asia. Collaborate with research teams on the university campus and abroad.
  • Handles the cleaning and management of complex data collected from various sources. Maintains a high standard of data quality through rigorous application of high-frequency checks on the incoming data.
  • Applies advanced statistical techniques and coding skills to interpret data and analyze results. Delivers insightful and timely reports to support decision-making regarding the ongoing projects.
  • Takes on the responsibility of managing Institutional Review Board (IRB) submissions and modifications, ensuring that all research activities adhere to institutional, state, and federal ethical and regulatory standards.
  • Plays a pivotal role in preparing, developing, and coding survey instruments, ensuring they are well-structured and aligned with the research objectives.
  • Maintains technical and administrative support for a research project.
  • Analyzes and maintains data and/or specimens. Conducts literature reviews. Assists with preparation of reports, manuscripts and other documents.
  • Installs, sets up and performs experiments, interacting with students and other laboratory staff under the direction of the principal investigator.
  • Performs other related work as needed.

FAQs

What is the duration of the Research Specialist position?

The position offers a commitment of one year with the possibility of renewal.

Who will the Research Specialist report to?

The Research Specialist will directly report to Professor Christina Brown.

What are the primary research areas that the Research Specialist will focus on?

The Research Specialist will assist with development economics research projects focused on labor markets, education, and health.

What type of educational background is preferred for this role?

A bachelor’s or master’s degree in economics, public policy, or a related field is preferred.

What kind of technical skills are required for this position?

The candidate should have experience with statistical analysis packages such as Stata, R, or Python.

Is prior work experience necessary for this position?

A minimum of knowledge and skills developed through less than 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline is required.

What kinds of tasks will the Research Specialist be responsible for?

The Research Specialist will be responsible for writing and administering surveys, cleaning and organizing data, conducting statistical analyses, running simulations, and preparing manuscripts and presentations, among other tasks.

Are there any specific competencies expected from the candidate?

Yes, the candidate should be able to work independently and as part of a team, possess strong communication skills, prioritize tasks effectively, and have a strong interest in development economics.

Will the position require managing Institutional Review Board (IRB) submissions?

Yes, the Research Specialist will be responsible for managing IRB submissions and modifications to ensure compliance with ethical and regulatory standards.

Is there a requirement for a writing sample when applying for this position?

Yes, a short writing sample that shows the use of data is preferred when submitting an application.

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