Senior Research Associate - University of Chicago

Development Innovation Lab, University of Chicago

Location: Chicago, Illinois
Salary Range: $110,000 to $140,000
Position Type: Senior Research Associate
Field: Development Economics, Mathematics, Weather Forecasting, Research

About the Opportunity

The Development Innovation Lab (DIL) and the Kenneth C. Griffin Department of Economics at the University of Chicago are seeking a Senior Research Associate to serve as research lead for major weather forecasting initiatives.

The position offers an opportunity to contribute to large-scale, human-centered research designed to improve the usefulness of weather forecasts and support better agricultural decision-making in low- and middle-income countries.

The Senior Research Associate will work closely with Michael Kremer, Faculty Director of the Development Innovation Lab, on weather forecasting initiatives in countries including Indonesia, India, and Ethiopia.

The Role

The Senior Research Associate will help lead DIL’s work to develop, adapt, evaluate, and validate scalable weather forecasting innovations.

The successful candidate will contribute to research at the intersection of mathematics, forecasting, development economics, and real-world policy application.

Responsibilities include contributing to large-scale research initiatives, supporting the development and evaluation of forecasting methodologies, collaborating with research and field partners, and helping translate quantitative research into practical applications.

The position may also involve supporting research fundraising, overseeing project budgets, and supervising junior research staff.

Qualifications

Candidates should have a strong quantitative and research background.

A PhD in mathematics or a closely related field is required.

Ideal candidates will bring experience or demonstrated expertise in areas such as:

• Statistical modeling and forecasting
• Weather or climate forecasting
• Quantitative research methods
• Development economics
• Applied research in international settings
• Translating technical research into practical applications
• Communicating research findings to technical and nontechnical audiences

Experience developing or evaluating forecasting methodologies and applying quantitative methods in real-world settings is especially relevant.

About the Development Innovation Lab

The Development Innovation Lab at the University of Chicago conducts research aimed at developing and testing innovations with the potential to improve the lives of people in low- and middle-income countries.

Its research combines rigorous analytical methods with practical experimentation and large-scale implementation.

Compensation

Salary Range: $110,000 to $140,000

The position is based in Chicago, Illinois.

How to Apply

Candidates should review the complete position description, application requirements, and official University of Chicago employment information before applying.

APPLY NOW

https://apply.interfolio.com/191581

Applications should be submitted directly through the University of Chicago’s Interfolio application system.