Research Analyst

University of Chicago • Chicago, IL

1d

About The Position

Since its inception in 2014, the Center for the Economics of Human Development (CEHD) has brought together top-tier researchers to conduct and disseminate rigorous interdisciplinary research that identifies and explores the conditions under which people develop the skills necessary to thrive in society and achieve their fullest potential. CEHD’s research is guided by Professor James J. Heckman to include a comprehensive array of interrelated and interdisciplinary projects and initiatives which promote a thorough empirical understanding of human flourishing. Unifying this research is an evolving body of ideas that capacities and skills acquired over the lifecycle, starting at conception, transform many aspects of the life course at all stages, ranging from employment and earning prospects to overall health. Professor James J. Heckman and his research team work to advance knowledge by producing empirical and theoretical research that integrates ideas and methods across the social and natural sciences and creates rigorous evidence for public policy. The job participates in 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. CEHD’s robust research initiatives produce innovative, sound, evidence-based support for high-quality investments in programs that foster skills over the lifecycle. The research specialist will contribute to these publications and collaborations and gain Higher-level skills and knowledge and early-career authorship.

Requirements

• Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
• Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s Degree, conferred by Spring 2025, in economics or related quantitative field.
• One year of research experience with quantitative academic research.
• Experience programming and working with empirical data.
• Experience working successfully in stressful environments and problem solving.
• Experience with R, Matlab, Python helpful.
• Working knowledge of research techniques in empirical economics.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills and an enthusiasm for learning new methods and skills independently.
• Strong ability to coordinate work with others and teams.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent organization and attention to details.

Responsibilities

• Programs in Stata, Python, R, or Matlab to analyze data using econometric tools.
• Collaborates with research team to develop economic models for projects.
• Analyze the meaning, significance, causes, and effects of the subject.
• Writes and/or proofreads academic papers, reports, and presentations.
• Cleans and describes data, generating graphs, tables, or other summaries.
• Writes and/or proofreads grants.
• Takes responsibility for the following non-laboratory duties: transcribing and coding data; developing data collection instruments; presenting research; and recruiting and scheduling research subjects.
• Takes responsibility for the following laboratory duties: recognizing abnormal results and varying conditions or procedures to correct problems; setting up and performing experiments.
• Trains and supervises undergraduate research assistants.
• Responsibly handle confidential data.
• 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.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Benefits

• The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level