Director of Research

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Job Description Summary

As part of PDRI-DevLab’s leadership team, the Director of Research will have dual responsibilities: advancing PDRI-DevLab's research activities by leading new project development, and overseeing the development of PDRI-DevLab strategic initiatives, events and other activities. 

The Director of Research's core activity is to identify, initiate, and develop opportunities for new research in the international development space. This includes forming research collaborations, conducting outreach to leadership at government agencies and non-profits to explore new research opportunities, liaising with potential donors, and leading the writing of grant proposals.

In addition, the Director of Research will implement other strategic initiatives and carry out key management functions, by helping to direct PDRI-DevLab’s hiring efforts as well as its communications and outreach strategy, and developing new programs such as DEI fellowships and curricular initiatives. 

This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a young, fast-growing international development research initiative, and shape its strategy and future direction in the years to come.

Qualifications

Required:

• Master's Degree or PhD in Political Science, Economics, International Development, Public Policy or related field (ie., another quantitative social science discipline);
• At least 3 years conducting research or overseeing project implementation in developing country settings, or equivalent combination of education and experience;
• Deep familiarity with cutting-edge international development research across disciplines and issue areas;
• Academic training and/or practical experience in quantitative research and impact evaluation, including a familiarity with causal inference designs such as RCTs and/or quasi-experimental  designs;
• Exceptional communication and writing skills;
• Proven experience in successful grant writing.

Preferred:

• People and project management experience
• Experience living and working in developing countries
• Experience in raising 6-7 figure grants
• Experience in working with university administration or operations teams

The following application materials are requested:

• Cover letter
• Curriculum vitae or resume
• List of three references