Research Manager, Agriculture at The University of Chicago in Chicago, Illinois

Job Description:

Department



Becker Friedman Institute - Development Innovation Lab



About the Department



The Becker Friedman Institute for Economics (BFI) works with the Chicago Economics community to turn its evidence-based research into real-world impact. BFI takes a unique approach to bridging the divide between academic researchers and decision-makers in the business community and government by translating and packaging the rigorous work of the Chicago Economics community into accessible formats, and proactively sharing those findings with relevant decision-makers and thought leaders around the globe. BFI is a collaborative platform serving the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, the Kenneth C. Griffin Department of Economics, the Harris School of Public Policy, and the Law School. For more information visit https://bfi.uchicago.edu. The Development Innovation Lab is an affiliate of the Development Economics Center at the Becker Friedman Institute for Economics, which brings together scholars from across the UChicago community to address challenges to economic growth and political stability in developing countries. The Development Innovation Lab uses the tools of economics to develop innovations with the potential to benefit millions of people in low- and middle-income countries. For more information visit https://bfi.uchicago.edu/development-innovation-lab/.



Job Summary



The Research Manager position manages several research projects being conducted in low- and lower middle-income countries. The Research Manager is responsible for managing the overall project including data collection, data security, data analysis, and logistical support, as well as implementing partner and funder relationships. S/he supervises project teams of Research Professionals, works in close collaboration with Lead Researchers, and is expected to meet with and present regularly to implementing partners and project donors. Note: this role will require substantial travel to low-income countries where DIL has active research projects.



Responsibilities

• Ensures that all aspects of the research projects are being conducted effectively and in a timely manner. This will largely be done through managing the research staff, but direct support on research projects may also be needed.


• Ensurrd research support staff are working effectively on their projects.


• Ensurrd sufficient research support is provided to all project leads through regular meetings and involvement in project planning and timelines.


• Regularly checks in with research support.


• Coordinates the lab and broader University resources for research support to design a coherent program of mentorship and skills development for research professionals. The Research Manager will also be responsible for actively providing support and mentorship to project personnel.


• Communicates needs, requests, and complaints from RAs/Predocs to DIL Directors in timely manner.


• Responsible for the output produced by the research professionals in the lab and the allocation of horizontal tasks that contribute to the building of the lab to research professionals, ensuring they are completed on time and meet expectations.


• At any given time know what each RA/Predoc is working on in the lab: confident human resources are being used effectively and efficiently; support research professionals in prioritizing activities and time management; develop policy and outreach materials to support further project development and scaling.


• Applies research principles and relevant subject matter knowledge relevant to administer a research project. With a moderate level of direction, manages lab and/or research-related duties and tasks. Helps develop, design and conduct research projects according to plan.


• Supports data collection and analytical needs of research projects. Conducts literature reviews and helps write reports and manuscripts. Ensures project compliance with different policies, procedures, directives, and mandates.


• 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.


• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications




Education:

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

---
Work Experience:

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

---
Certifications:




---




Preferred Qualifications




Education:

• Bachelor's degree and/ or Master's degree in economics, mathematics, statistics, public policy, or related discipline.

Experience:

• Minimum 3 years of relevant experience, including 2 or more years of experience managing teams and projects.


• Experience in research impact evaluation.


• Two to five years previous experience working on one or more Randomized Trials, preferably as a research assistant based in a low or middle income country or research manager of an RCT based in a LIC or MIC.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

• Experience with STATA and/or R data analysis software; experience interpreting data analysis; experience with academic writing.


• Proficient with data collection techniques and field research including primary data collection.


• Project management skills; plan tasks for teams, monitor progress, make corrections to plans.


• Experience with budgets and fundraising (or grant management).


• Fluency in English.


• Experience with budgets useful.


• Team player with good problem-solving and time management skills.


• Excellent interpersonal skills as well as written and oral communication skills


• Work under pressure and meet deadlines.

Preferred Competencies

• Develop and maintain strong partnerships with external collaborators, funders, journalists, or other important constituencies.


• Excellent oral and written communication including the ability to translate technical ideas into non-technical content.


• Support building relationships across diverse cultures and backgrounds, within the University, the regional ecosystem, and globally.

Working Conditions

• Perform tasks mostly indoors in an office setting.


• Work independently for periods of eight (8) hours or more.


• Some travel to low and middle income countries.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)


• Cover Letter (required)


• Three Professional References Contact Information (required)

When applying, the document(s) MUSTbe uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.



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



Employees must comply with the University's COVID-19 vaccination requirements. More information about the requirements can be found on the University of Chicago Vaccination GoForward.


The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected 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.


All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.


The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at:http://securityreport.uchicago.edu.Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637. Apply Now