University of Chicago

Position Title/Short Description

Full Text of JOE Listing:

The University of Chicago is seeking to appoint a highly motivated early-career researcher for a postdoctoral position as part of a collaborative initiative with the Ministry of Economy and Planning in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Research Focus and Areas

This position offers the opportunity to conduct innovative and impactful research across key policy areas, including education, healthcare, labor markets, social protection, public finance, macroeconomic and fiscal policy, governance, international trade, and sustainable development, while also exploring additional domains that can influence Saudi Arabia's economic and social landscape. The research will explore how economic insights can drive reforms and improvements in these sectors, with an emphasis on translating theoretical models into actionable policy solutions. The goal is to produce research that addresses both immediate and long-term policy questions while contributing to the global understanding of these areas.

The postdoctoral scholar will work closely with Professor John List and the team at the University of Chicago to carry out experimental and empirical research, applying innovative methodologies to evaluate policy interventions. The research will have a strong applied dimension, with a particular focus on using economic experiments to generate evidence that can shape public policy decisions.

Responsibilities and Key activities include:

- Designing and implementing field experiments aimed at addressing pressing policy issues in the selected areas.

- Collaborating with policymakers to interpret research findings and develop policy recommendations.
Analyzing data from experiments and real-world applications to produce academic publications and policy reports.

- Engaging with local stakeholders and institutions to ensure that research outcomes are aligned with national policy objectives.

Postdoctoral scholars will primarily be based at the University of Chicago but will spend 4 to 6 weeks in Saudi Arabia each year to collaborate with the Ministry of Economy and Planning.

The role offers scholars the opportunity to lead research projects, contribute to the existing research agenda, and build their own pipeline of work as they prepare for a future tenure-track position.

Qualifications:

- Strong background in economics, with a focus on applied research relevant to public policy.
- Experience in designing and conducting field experiments or similar empirical studies.
- A proven ability to contribute to academic publications and policy-oriented research.
- No teaching or administrative duties are required.
- The term for this position is for one year.
- Applicants with a tenure track offer who are able to defer it for one year are given priority.