Pre-Doctoral Research Fellow

Job Description

PRE-DOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOW, J-PAL North America , to join the research team of Professor Amy Finkelstein, focusing on randomized controlled trials, the effect of expanding public health insurance , analyzing the impacts of healthcare hotspotting on super-utilizers , and the effect of Medicare bundled payment reform . Responsibilities include working with data sets and analyzing data; assisting with literature reviews; handling IRB applications; and preparing academic papers.

The position is ideal for someone interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in economics.

Job Requirements

REQUIRED : bachelor's degree; two years of research experience (may include research experience gained as an undergraduate); strong quantitative background and computer skills, including programming experience; and ability to work independently. PREFERRED : research assistant experience and a background in economics. Candidates with strong technical backgrounds who are looking for more exposure to economics are welcome. Job #24323
Appointment will begin in spring or summer 2025 with a two-year commitment being ideal.

Online application should include (in one PDF file) the following: a cover letter with a description of experience as an RA and any independent research; description of familiarity with statistical and computer packages; the names of two references and their contact information (one must be someone you have worked for as an RA); current CV; transcript; list of classes in economics, mathematics, statistics, or computer science (including course name, date taken, school, and the main textbook(s) used in the course); courses currently taking; and date available to start work. Two references must send letters of recommendation to Professor Finkelstein at aecabral@mit.edu as soon as possible once the application is submitted.

Applicants who are interested in working with Professor Finkelstein on economic research using tools other than RCTs are encouraged to also consider applying to this opportunity (job number 23101) for RAs to work on Prof. Finkelstein's research team based at the MIT Economics Department. Applicants are welcome to apply to both roles and may upload identical materials to each application portal.

8/15/24