Postdoctoral Fellow in Development Economics / Postdoctoral Fellowess in Development Economics

Join the University of Zurich

The University of Zurich, the largest university in Switzerland, offers a range of attractive positions across various subject areas and professional fields. With approximately 10,000 employees and 12 professional apprenticeship streams, the University provides an inspiring working environment that emphasizes cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us and explore more about UZH as an employer!

Your Responsibilities

Through the Lemann Center, the Department of Economics is collaborating with the Alliance for Data, Evaluation, and Policy Training (ADEPT) to establish innovative graduate-level programs. These programs will blend in-person teaching with online courses as part of the J-PAL/MITx Data, Economics, and Design of Policy (DEDP) MicroMasters program. This position focuses on spearheading the development and launch of these programs in close coordination with Professors Esther Duflo (MIT/UZH), Sara Fisher Ellison (MIT), and Dina Pomeranz (UZH), alongside the ADEPT/UZH Economics teams. Additionally, the successful candidate will provide support for other ADEPT university partnerships in the region and beyond.

Responsibilities may include:

• Co-design and help launch UZH-based programs:
  • Curriculum design for new graduate-level programs offered through the UZH Economics department for students and policymakers.
  • Overseen logistical and operational requirements for launching new UZH-based programs, including navigating national and university regulatory requirements, obtaining approvals, advertising, admissions setup, and more.
  • Assist in organizing and teaching courses at UZH and elsewhere for students, policymakers, and early career researchers, ranging from one-week courses for working professionals to semester-long classes.
• Support other activities led by ADEPT and the Lemann Center:
  • Develop new teaching materials in policy design and evaluation.
  • Provide direct support to faculty and departments at ADEPT partner universities designing new programs similar to those at UZH.
  • Contribute to research projects as they arise through the Lemann Center.
  • Other responsibilities as needed to advance the programs and work of the Lemann Center.

Approximately 80% of the postdoc's time will be dedicated to these activities, with the remaining 20% reserved for independent research projects.

Your Profile

Applicants should hold a PhD in Economics or a related field, complemented by PhD-level coursework in economics and a keen interest in development economics, education, or public policy. We are seeking an individual who is passionate about teaching and possesses solid experience in educational practice and material development. Candidates should demonstrate strong coordination skills and a commitment to impactful, policy-relevant research. We are looking for a dynamic, self-motivated professional with a creative approach to global capacity building in order to contribute to the development and launch of these programs.

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

The Department of Economics offers an exciting research environment and competitive terms and conditions. We are committed to diversity and inclusion.

Application Process

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For further inquiries, please contact:

Sarah Kopper
Associate Director of Research
opper@povertyactionlab.org