Postdoctoral Fellow in Development Economics / Postdoctoral Fellowess in Development Economics

Join the University of Zurich

The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, presents a variety of attractive positions across numerous subject areas and professional fields. With approximately 10,000 employees and 12 professional apprenticeship streams, the University provides an inspiring working environment enriched by cutting-edge research and top-notch education. Put your talent and skills to work with us and discover more about UZH as an employer!

Your Responsibilities

Through the Lemann Center, the Department of Economics is collaborating with the Alliance for Data, Evaluation, and Policy Training (ADEPT) to develop innovative graduate-level programs that integrate in-person teaching with online courses from the J-PAL/MITx Data, Economics, and Design of Policy (DEDP) MicroMasters program. This position will focus on leading the development and launch of these programs, working closely with Professors Esther Duflo (MIT/UZH), Sara Fisher Ellison (MIT), and Dina Pomeranz (UZH), as well as the ADEPT/UZH Economics teams. The successful candidate will also support other ADEPT university partnerships in the region and beyond.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Co-design and Launch UZH-based Programs
  • Curriculum design for new graduate-level programs targeted at students and policymakers.
  • Manage logistical and operational aspects for launching these programs, including navigating regulatory requirements, obtaining approvals, advertising, and setting up admissions.
  • Assist in organizing and teaching courses at UZH and other venues for students, policymakers, and early-career researchers. Courses may range from one-week sessions for working professionals to semester-long classes in the Economics department.
• Support Activities Led by ADEPT and the Lemann Center
  • Develop new teaching materials related to policy design and evaluation.
  • Offer direct support to faculty and departments at ADEPT partner universities in designing programs similar to those at UZH.
  • Contribute to emerging research projects initiated by the Lemann Center.
  • Fulfill additional responsibilities as needed to advance the initiatives and objectives of the Lemann Center.

Approximately 80% of the postdoc's time will be dedicated to these activities, with the remaining 20% allocated for independent research projects.

Your Profile

Applicants should possess a PhD in Economics or a related field, with substantial coursework in economics and a keen interest in development economics, education, or public policy. We seek an enthusiastic individual passionate about teaching, with significant experience in educational practices and curriculum development. Ideal candidates will exhibit strong coordination skills and a dedication to producing impactful, policy-relevant research. We are looking for a dynamic, self-motivated person who is eager to think creatively about global capacity building to aid in the creation and launch of these programs.

Professional proficiency in English is required; knowledge of German is advantageous but not mandatory.

The Department of Economics offers an exciting research environment and competitive terms and conditions. We highly value diversity and inclusion in our workplace.

Application Process

To apply, please submit your application online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For inquiries, please contact:

Sarah Kopper
Associate Director of Research
opper@povertyactionlab.org