Post-Doc: Development Economics

Centre for Studies of African Economies, Blavatnik School of Government, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Woodstock Road, Oxford

People often do not take up programmes or interventions, even if these might have high returns or improve their wellbeing. Psychological constraints may form part of an explanation for this pattern. These psychological constraints may be particularly severe among poor people in low-income countries.Kate Orkin and Stefan Dercon are collaborating with economists and psychologists from Princeton and Duke Universities, the University of Cape Town and IFPRI to build a large-scale programme of research in this area. 

Research will examine (1) if psychological interventions can alter poor people's subjective expectations, sense of their capabilities and preferences in developing world contexts; (2) whether these changes alter economic behaviour and outcomes; and (3) whether integrating psychological interventions into existing anti-poverty programmes enhances the effect of these programmes.This is a fixed-term post for 2 years, based at the CSAE, Blavatnik School of Government. Applicants must have been awarded, or are nearing completion of, a doctoral degree in a relevant discipline. 

Main duties include managing a large RCT; contributing to and/or collaborating on other research projects and engaging in original, world-class research in an area relevant to this programme; and managing a small group of research assistants. Applicants must demonstrate evidence of developing a track record of publications; the ability to carry out independent quantitative research; and experience working in developing countries. Previous experience in designing and conducting lab and/or field experiments is desirable.

Vacancy ID :123266