Postdoctoral Fellow in Development Economics / Postdoctoral Fellowess in Development Economics

Job Opportunity at the University of Zurich

The University of Zurich, the largest university in Switzerland, offers a variety of attractive positions across multiple disciplines and professional fields. Boasting approximately 10,000 employees and 12 professional apprenticeship streams, the University provides an inspiring work environment focused on cutting-edge research and exceptional education. Leverage your talents and skills with us and discover more about UZH as an employer!

Your Responsibilities

The Department of Economics, through the Lemann Center, is partnering with the Alliance for Data, Evaluation, and Policy Training (ADEPT) to establish innovative graduate-level programs that combine in-person teaching with online courses from the J-PAL/MITx Data, Economics, and Design of Policy (DEDP) MicroMasters program. This position focuses on leading the development and launch of these programs in close collaboration with Professors Esther Duflo (MIT/UZH), Sara Fisher Ellison (MIT), Dina Pomeranz (UZH), and the ADEPT/UZH Economics teams. Additionally, you will support other ADEPT university partnerships both regionally and beyond.

• Co-design and help launch UZH-based programs:
  • Develop curriculum for new graduate-level programs offered through the UZH Economics department aimed at students and policymakers.
  • Oversee logistical and operational requirements for launching new UZH-based programs, including navigating regulatory obligations, obtaining approvals, advertising, and admissions setup.
  • Assist in organizing and teaching courses at UZH and other locations for students, policymakers, and early career researchers, which may range from one-week courses to semester-long classes.
• Support other activities led by ADEPT and the Lemann Center:
  • Develop new teaching materials focused on policy design and evaluation.
  • Provide direct support to faculty and departments at ADEPT partner universities designing programs similar to those at UZH.
  • Contribute to various research projects emerging from the Lemann Center.
  • Fulfill additional responsibilities as needed to advance the 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, coupled with PhD-level coursework in Economics and a strong interest in development economics, education, or public policy. We seek a passionate educator with substantial experience in educational practices and the development of new teaching materials. Candidates must demonstrate excellent coordination skills and a commitment to impactful, policy-relevant research. We are looking for a dynamic, self-motivated individual with a creative approach to global capacity building to aid in developing and launching these programs.

Professional working proficiency in English is required. Knowledge of German is advantageous but not mandatory.

The Department of Economics offers an exhilarating research environment with competitive terms and conditions. We value diversity and inclusion in our work culture.

Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For inquiries, please contact:

Sarah Kopper
Associate Director of Research
opper@povertyactionlab.org