The Becker Friedman Institute for Economics (BFI) works with the Chicago Economics community to turn its evidence-based research into real-world impact. BFI takes a unique approach to bridging the divide between academic researchers and decision-makers in the business community and government by translating and packaging the rigorous work of the Chicago Economics community into accessible formats, and proactively sharing those findings with relevant decision-makers and thought leaders around the globe.
BFI is a collaborative platform serving the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, the Kenneth C. Griffin Department of Economics, the Harris School of Public Policy, and the Law School. The Predoctoral Research in Economics Program (PREP) is intended to serve as a bridge between college and graduate school for students interested in empirical economics. The program offers unique research and professional training opportunities at the University of Chicago. For more information visit https://bfi.uchicago.edu and https://bfi.uchicago.edu/info-for/prep/.
Job Summary
The Research Professional will report to an BFI-affiliated faculty member at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, the Kenneth C. Griffin Department of Economics, the Harris School of Public Policy, or the University of Chicago Law School.
Responsibilities span all stages of research, including collecting data of in both tabular and spatial formats, developing algorithms that clean and organize data, conducting statistical analyses, running simulations, and preparing manuscripts and presentations. This position performs routine assignments related to scientific research projects. Ensures compliance of research activities with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies, procedures, directives and mandates. Analyzes possible solutions using standard procedures. Writes articles, reports and manuscripts. Assists in drafting presentations on research findings.
Responsibilities
Cleans and analyzes data.
Writes or finalizes replicable data files or scripts for publication.
Ensures compliance of research activities with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies, procedures, directives, and mandates. Analyzes possible solutions using standard procedures.
Assists with writing data analysis plans and contributes to preparing study registration documents.
Supports the implementation of field experiments including supporting the design and implementation of surveys, and monitoring the quality of data collected, when needed.
Supports with the writing of grant and policy reports and assists with drafting presentations of research findings.
Takes responsibility for the following non-laboratory duties: transcribing and coding data; developing data collection instruments; presenting research; and recruiting and scheduling research subjects. Acquires higher-level skills and knowledge in the process.
Maintains technical and administrative support for a research project.
Analyzes and maintains data and/or specimens. Conducts literature reviews. Assists with preparation of reports, manuscripts and other documents.
Installs, sets up and performs experiments; interacting with students and other laboratory staff under the direction of the principal investigator.
Maintains recruiting and scheduling research subjects; assisting with developing or amending study protocols; assisting with developing data collection tools; assisting with building databases; and providing general administrative support. Has general awareness in research techniques or methods, regulatory policies and procedures, and relevant scientific field.
Performs other related work as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
--- Work Experience:
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through --- Certifications:
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Preferred Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
Advanced coursework in economics or mathematics.
Experience:
3 months to one year of work experience in a related job discipline. Experience gained through coursework may be counted as relevant experience.
Background in econometrics.
Familiarity in analyzing large data sets and applying econometrics methods.
Previous research assistance experience contributing meaningfully to faculty research.
Technical Skills or Knowledge:
Knowledge of machine learning techniques in data analysis.
Familiarity with statistical analysis packages such as Stata, R, or Python.
Advanced knowledge of research techniques and methods in relevant scientific field.
Preferred Competencies
Understanding of academia and higher education in a research and teaching environment.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
Work both independently and as a team member.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Application Documents
Resume/CV (required)
Cover Letter (required)
Two Professional References Contact Information (required)
Transcripts, unofficial transcripts may be submitted (required)
When applying, the document(s) MUSTbe uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.
Job Family
Research
Role Impact
Individual Contributor
FLSA Status
Exempt
Pay Frequency
Monthly
Scheduled Weekly Hours
37.5
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Drug Test Required
No
Health Screen Required
No
Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
No
Posting Statement
The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.
We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange.
All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.
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