Research Assistant, AGI

The Research Assistant provides research support, writing, and/or statistical assistance to the Senior Fellow and Director of the Africa Growth Initiative. This position helps obtain, manage, and organize large datasets using statistical analyses tools and econometric modeling. It assists in the preparation of presentations, blog posts, policy briefs and working papers, and in the organization of meetings, events, and outreach activities.

Responsibilities:
Research Assistance (80%)

Supports Senior Fellow in data analysis, utilizing econometric and other statistical tools; compiles and organizes large datasets, and presents the results of empirical analysis in table and graphical formats

Drafts summary documents, briefing memos, reports on forums, symposia, and conferences; compiles abstracts and summaries of books and articles

Researches data sources, updates and checks existing data; prepares databases for computer analysis

For data-based projects, works jointly with Senior Fellow, prepares and revises programming code, simulation macros, database files, and regression estimates; prepares tables and graphs output from model simulations

Conducts research on economic growth-related issues, which includes carrying out bibliographical searches, summarizing research papers, and contributing content and analysis

Monitors and summarizes current developments in relevant research areas of economic development and finance in Africa

Updates and checks existing data and footnotes; helps with editing and proofreading of publications

Under Senior Fellow’s guidance, attends and represents AGI at events, project workshop conferences and seminars, as needed and helps prepare presentations, summaries, and blogs

Collaborates with research team to prepare weekly news summaries for AGI blog and internal news briefings

Supports ad hoc requests for policy support, including preparing fact sheets, briefing notes for internal and external trends, supporting Congressional testimonies as needed

General Assistance (20%)

Assists with the organization of AGI meetings and conferences as needed

O ther administrative duties as assigned

Qualifications:
Education/Experience Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Mathematics, Statistics, and/or a related social science field completed by Summer 2017 required. Minimum one year of experience (in a professional, student or intern role) with empirical research and quantitative data analysis. Experience and confidence in manipulating and analyzing large datasets (with governmental and non-governmental organizations on international development and economic issues) in STATA and Microsoft Excel required. Familiarity with handling and processing large data sets.

Knowledge/Skills Requirements:

Knowledge of SAS, STATA, SPSS, or related econometric packages is required. Excellent verbal, written, and communication skills. Knowledge and interest in Africa and/or development or emerging markets is highly preferred. Knowledge of international economics and development, governance, banking, finance, and/or U.S.-sub-Saharan Africa policy issues desirable. Strong computer skills and experience required. Team player and fast learner . Ability to meet multiple deadlines in a fast-paced work environment. Strong work ethic and ability to support a variety of tasks based on the need of the program, staff, and scholars. Professional demeanor and high level of comfort working with high-profile individuals from government/international sector. Ability to work well under pressure with discretion and mature judgment.

Additional Information:

Brookings requires that all applicants submit a cover letter and resume. Please attach your cover letter and resume as one document when you apply.

Successful completion of a background investigation is required for employment at Brookings.

Brookings is an equal-opportunity employer that is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, veteran status, or other factors protected by law.

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