Research Associate I (International Development and Governance)

Who we are

At The Urban Institute, we believe in the power of evidence to improve lives and strengthen communities. Our employees are empowered to influence policy, open minds, shape decisions and offer solutions. We encourage intellectual honesty, innovation, diversity, and mutual respect, and our analysis elevates debate, wherever it takes place.

The Center on International Development & Governance (IDG) is one of Urban’s ten policy centers. Its mission is to improve governance and economic opportunities for citizens in developing countries with research and technical assistance. IDG works with a broad range of government agencies, research institutions, universities, development partners, and international financial institutions. Our counterparts and partners include government policymakers, elected officials, private-sector actors, civil society leaders, academics, and donor agencies from over 70 countries.
How you’ll contribute
The ideal candidate will be a research and policy entrepreneur who plans and executes social science research projects and technical assistance on key issues in international development. Issues may include decentralization and local governance; performance management; urban development; public finance; infrastructure; public service delivery; legislative, policy and institutional reform; local economic development; housing; strengthening civil society institutions and civic engagement. Among other responsibilities the candidate will take over home office leadership of two significant programs in Africa involving intergovernmental fiscal, administrative and political arrangements and service delivery.
Responsibilities:
Advance the development and governance objectives of the Center with research, proposal leadership, management and team contributions.
Design and implements evidence-based technical support approaches for both proposals and existing projects (working with project or host country government counterparts). Supervise and support collection and analysis of data in existing projects (via staff or consultants)
Analyze and/or review analyses conducted by project staff and colleagues
Contribute to the strategic direction of Center initiatives
Write or co-author research reports, summaries, and issue briefs, blog posts
What you’ll bring
Minimum PHD or Master’s Degree and relevant experience in Economics, Public Policy or other related field
Minimum 5 years of relevant work experience conducting, leading and explaining research and policy efforts.
Strong writing and analytical skills, relevant substantive knowledge and social policy research experience.
Language additional to English may be a plus
Ability and experience leading and working in collaborative work situations
A publication and communication products record is highly preferred.
What you’ll experience
Working in the Nation’s Capital- the epicenter of public policy- among a network of policy experts, you can expect to have an impact on policy areas you care about and work with great colleagues who are smart, mission-driven, and collaborative. You will blend academic rigor with on-the-ground collaboration, be encouraged and supported to fulfill your potential through meaningful work that matters and, enjoy a welcoming workplace free from harassment, discrimination and intolerance.
In addition, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes: medical, dental, disability, and life insurance coverage. Competitive paid time off allowance, and eligibility to participate in a generous retirement savings plan plus elect a pretax benefit for commuting expenses.
The Urban Institute is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity without regard for race, ethnicity, gender, protected veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other protected status under applicable law.
The Urban Institute is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer –Minorities/Women/Disabilities/Veterans.