"Predoctoral Research Associate BIG Lab"

Company Description

The University of Notre Dame is more than a workplace! We are a vibrant, mission-driven community where every employee is valued and supported. Rooted in a tradition of excellence and inspired by our Catholic character, Notre Dame is committed to fostering an environment of care that nurtures the whole person-mind, body, and spirit. Here, you will find a deep sense of belonging, a culture that prioritizes well-being, and the opportunity to grow your career while being a force for good in the world. Whether contributing to world-class research, shaping the student experience, or supporting the University's mission in other ways, you will be part of a dedicated team working to make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond. At Notre Dame, your work matters, and so do you!

Job Description

Please note: This predoctoral position is being managed through a separate application system. We are sharing here to increase visibility and accessibility.

If you are interested in this position, please apply here by December 31, 2025. Applications submitted through this posting will not be reviewed.

The Building Inclusive Growth (BIG) Lab at Notre Dame is hiring a full-time predoctoral Research Associate in the Department of Economics at the University of Notre Dame. The RA will join a cohort of predoctoral research associates who work in a team environment as part of the BIG Lab. The Lab supports development economists and other quantitative researchers, such as Lakshmi Iyer, Taryn Dinkelman, Enrique Seira, Joseph Kaboski, Santosh Gautam and Alejandro Estefan, and aims to produce high quality research into enduring pathways out of poverty in low-income countries.

The RA will work on research projects related to structural transformation, education, gender, labor markets, and energy use in low- and middle-income countries. Recent projects have focused on India, Uganda, Mexico, Colombia, and Malawi. The RA will be involved in all aspects of the research process, including: data sourcing, grant applications, fieldwork, data analysis, manuscript preparation, research team management, presentation of results, generation of replication materials, and dissemination of results to academic and policy audiences through workshops and conferences. The RA will also be able to participate in mentorship and skills development activities and the weekly development economics workshop. RAs can also enroll in one class each semester for credit.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

(85%) Research Support

• Source and collect data (may involve international travel)
• Assist with grant applications
• Conduct fieldwork, including survey preparation, testing, and implementation
• Perform data analysis
• Conduct literature reviews
• Draft research findings and reports
• Prepare presentations and research materials
• Participate in weekly team meetings for research review

(15%) Administrative and Lab Support

• Coordinate planning and logistics for research projects
• Screen grant proposals
• Manage communication and organization for internal and external research workshops
• Provide general service and support to the Lab

Qualifications

• A completed 4-year undergrad degree (bachelors or foreign equivalent) in economics, statistics, applied mathematics, or related field
• Strong quantitative background
• Strong writing skills (evidenced by a writing sample)
• Independent problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and be highly organized
• Experience programming in Stata and/or R; experience working with GIS data a plus

Additional Information

Please note: This predoctoral position is being managed through a separate application system. We are sharing here to increase visibility and accessibility.

If you are interested in this position, please apply here by December 31, 2025. Applications submitted through this posting will not be reviewed.

Application Deadline to Apply: December 31, 2025

Required Application Materials:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Transcript (unofficial is ok)
• Writing sample
• Names and contact information for 2-3 references

This is a full-time, one-year position with a preference to extend to a second year pending funding. Start date is flexible, sometime in summer 2026. We can sponsor work authorization for successful candidates.

At Notre Dame, we know our impact depends on exceptional people, people like you. We are committed to fostering a vibrant, welcoming community. In keeping with our mission, we encourage applications from all who will help build and strengthen our beloved community. We strive to empower every employee to flourish, knowing your success propels Notre Dame to new heights of impact.