Careers
Founded in 2017, the Boston University Global Development Policy Center’s mission is to advance policy-oriented research for financial stability, human well-being and environmental sustainability.
To fulfill our mission, we conduct rigorous policy research; provide a convening place for scholars and stakeholders; engage in policy dialogue with policymakers, civil society and media; and offer experiential learning for Boston University students. The GDP Center strives to not only be a think tank, but also a do tank. Come work with us.
Current Openings
Post-doctoral Fellow, Program on Women’s Empowerment Research, (POWER), Human Capital Initiative
The Boston University Global Development Policy Center (GDP Center) seeks a Post-Doctoral Fellow with a strong background in global development policy, social science and development studies to support research and policy activities under the Program on Women’s Empowerment Research (POWER) within the Human Capital Initiative (HCI).
The aim of the POWER is to advance women’s empowerment in order to improve human well-being in low- and middle-income settings through collaborative research, policy engagement and strategic communications. POWER was founded in 2020 and over the last three years, has conducted rigorous, interdisciplinary research that investigates the causes of women’s empowerment and its consequences on human well-being. To date, the program has established a body of evidence that critically investigates three core domains within the larger empowerment narrative: 1) health and human capital; 2) mobility and access and 3) sustainable social and economic empowerment.
POWER is seeking a Post-doctoral Fellow with a background and expertise in development economics, global studies or public policy, global health, demography or another discipline related to the quantitative social and behavioral sciences with a focus one or more of the POWER program’s core domains. The Post-doctoral Fellow will have significant interest and expertise (in research, policy and practice) on issues related to gender, women’s empowerment and well-being.
The Post-doctoral Fellow is expected to: lead and oversee ongoing POWER research and policy efforts; develop, plan, and execute new research projects (e.g. randomized controlled trials, impact evaluations mixed methods research) in collaboration with the POWER team and our global partners; support activities that relate to the dissemination of research findings and policy engagement with stakeholders and constituents where POWER projects are conducted and pursue independent projects in one or more of the priority areas of POWER.
Qualifications:
Required:
- A completed doctoral degree, along with post-doctoral experience. The GDP Center will accept applications from all disciplines but is particularly seeking a candidate with a strong development studies background and associated expertise in economics, public policy, global health (with a focus on maternal and child health or reproductive health), demography or another quantitative social or behavioral science. Interdisciplinary research expertise across these and other related disciplines is particularly welcome.
- Demonstrated expertise in analytic and quantitative skills (particularly in advanced statistics, econometrics, machine learning, inference etc.).
- Experience with methods of causal inference and impact evaluation (both analytic and the implementation of programs and interventions).
- Advanced programming expertise in Stata, R and/or Python.
- Expertise in LaTeX and related document processing systems.
- Well-versed with ongoing policy discussions and global debates in gender, women’s empowerment, human capital, and economic development, with particular knowledge and expertise on these issues in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.
- A strong track record of thought leadership and policy engagement on issues related to women’s empowerment, including engagement with collaborators based in the global south, and experience with research and program management in these contexts.
A strong research interest and proven track record in the POWER focus areas, including a firm grasp of policy discussions and debates.
Strongly Desirable:
- A track record in qualitative and mixed methods.
- Experience with qualitative analysis software (NVivo, Atlas.ti, etc.).
- Expertise with spatial analysis and related tools (e.g. ArcGIS, QGIS).
- Prior fieldwork experience and experience with overseeing field surveys, data collection, field team management, etc.
- Experience with electronic survey data collection (CommCare, ODK, CSPro).
- Research or professional experience in working in sub-Saharan Africa and/or South Asia.
- Professional knowledge of French and/or other languages.
How to apply: Please send a cover letter and CV to HCIPostDoc@gdp-center.us.monday.com with the subject line First Name Last Name_HCI Post-Doctoral Fellow.
Project Coordinator, Human Capital Initiative
The Boston University Global Development Policy Center (GDP Center) seeks a Project Coordinator with experience in project coordination and management and a background and interest in global development policy, social science, and development studies to support research and policy activities under the Program on Women’s Empowerment Research (POWER) at the center’s Human Capital Initiative (HCI).
The HCI Project Coordinator will be responsible for providing administrative and programmatic support, reviewing and implementing project plans, liaising with the communications and outreach team, tracking budgets, and maintaining accurate records to ensure that all HCI-related projects and activities are completed successfully.
HCI conducts rigorous, policy-oriented, social science research on human capital – the productive potential embodied in all people – and its role in development. HCI’s research seeks to improve understanding of the social, political and institutional factors that shape (a) how human capital is formed and (b) how human capital is translated into individual and collective well-being. In doing so, HCI shifts the focus of human capital research from individual production functions toward generating a deeper understanding of collective functions – or the resources, institutions, strategies and interventions that shape human well-being.
The primary responsibilities of the HCI Project Coordinator include:
Project Coordination:
- Organizing and participating in regular meetings with HCI core faculty, research affiliates, and staff to ensure that all HCI project research, budgets, research and policy-related deliverables and timelines are on track.
- Liaising with the communications and outreach team at the GDP Center, HCI program leads, associate directors and HCI research affiliates to coordinate the programming of outreach activities, including literature sessions, workshops, meetings and conferences (in-person and virtual).
- Coordinating the recruitment and onboarding of pre- and post-doctoral fellows, research assistants and other staff hired by any project or program within the initiative.
- Supporting research and policy partners within and outside BU who collaborate on HCI-related activities.
- Coordinating, in collaboration with the research and communications teams, copyeditors, authors and other staff, to support the production, publication, and dissemination of outputs that are generated from HCI research, including policy briefs, reports, working papers, blog posts, social media outputs and other related communications, maintaining quality standards and ensuring that all deliverable deadlines are met.
- Coordinating with the research and communications teams and outreach support staff (copyeditors, authors, translators, among others) to support the production of project-related outputs and deliverables.
Finance and Administration:
- Assisting in the tracking of project finance and budgets in collaboration with the Associate Director of Finance and Administration and support staff at the GDP Center.
- Creating and reviewing budgets for specific projects and initiative-led activities (e.g., workshops, logistics, operations and travel), and maintaining records of expenses against the approved budget.
- Supporting research and policy staff in the development and production of interim and final reports for specific programs (project/initiative related travel, events, conferences) using appropriate software (Excel, CONCUR, etc.), which will then be reviewed and approved by the Associate Director of Finance and Administration.
- Supporting the preparation of project proposals that will be submitted to the Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) and coordinating budgets and related financial reviews of proposals with OSP.
- Researching, identifying, and enrolling new vendors into the BU system so that all engagement on projects can proceed smoothly with minimal delay.
- Soliciting and reviewing project proposals and contracts for goods and services and processing purchase requisitions, with review and approval from the Associate Director of Finance and Administration.
Qualifications:
- Strong organizational and multitasking skills: must be able to efficiently handle multiple tasks, prioritize activities and ensure that projects stay on track.
- Effective and efficient communication skills: clear and concise verbal and written communication to convey project updates, delegate tasks, support the preparation of project outputs and address any issues or concerns that may arise.
- Attention to detail: meticulous attention to detail is necessary to oversee project documentation, track progress and identify any potential risks or discrepancies.
- Team player and leadership abilities: Strong interpersonal skills to motivate team members, facilitate teamwork, resolve conflicts and maintain high levels of team performance.
- Problem-solving and adaptability: be able to address issues in a timely and efficient manner, handle unforeseen circumstances and adjust project plans or resources as needed and make informed decisions under pressure for successful project coordination.
- Ability and willingness to be flexible and responsive to the changing needs of projects and activities.
Requirements:
- A Bachelor’s degree is required; a Master’s degree is preferred.
- Additional technical qualifications or training in areas related to project and program management is strongly preferred.
- A minimum of three years of experience in project coordination and management in a related field in the social or health sciences, in higher education, think tanks or at a research or policy institution.
- Knowledge of project management methodologies (e.g., Waterfall, Agile, Scrum) and tools (e.g., Gantt chart mapping, program mapping, MS Project).
- Budget development and management experience, particularly for programs and projects that have been implemented globally.
- Experience with and interest in working on global projects that involve multiple institutional partners.
- Proficiency in MS Office suite and project collaboration tools (Adobe suite, etc.) is required.
- Professional proficiency in foreign languages (written and spoken) that are relevant for HCI-related projects is a plus.
Boston University employees and their families have access to a range of exceptional benefit programs, including comprehensive health and dental plans, long-term disability coverage fully paid by the University, flexible spending accounts, retirement plans, life insurance, accident insurance for work-related travel, valuable tuition remission and a generous paid time off plan.
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military service, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition or because of marital, parental, or veteran status. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.
How to apply: Please send a cover letter and resumé to HCIProjectCoordinator@gdp-center.us.monday.com with the subject line: First Name Last Name_HCI Project Coordinator.
Program Manager, Global Economic Governance Initiative
The Boston University Global Development Policy Center seeks a Program Manager with a background in global development policy for our Global Economic Governance Initiative (GEGI).
The Global Economic Governance Initiative (GEGI) advances policy-oriented research to align global economic governance with development and climate ambitions and deliver green and inclusive prosperity. Within GEGI, research is conducted across three thematic programs: development finance, financial stability, and trade and investment rules. GEGI also focuses on emerging and cross-cutting challenges such as just transitions, the sovereign debt crisis, and climate change. The initiative hosts a flagship program called the Task Force on Climate, Development and the International Monetary Fund and co-leads the Debt Relief for a Green and Inclusive Recovery (DRGR) Project.
The Program Manager will oversee the administrative and operational aspects of GEGI with a focused approach to managing multiple projects with competing deadlines. This position collaborates with diverse stakeholders to strategize project plans, forecast costs, co-manage budgets, facilitate seamless communication, and make informed decisions that are aligned with the GDP Center’s overarching priorities.
Responsibilities:
Administration & Project Management:
- Work with GEGI researchers and Center leadership to oversee and manage the full lifecycle of GEGI projects, exhibiting a comprehensive understanding of advanced project management techniques and administrative principles.
- Develop comprehensive project plans and implement best practices and formal methodologies used in project management to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and optimize project outcomes.
- Collaborate with the Associate Director, Finance and Administration to strategically develop and manage project budgets, demonstrating forecasting and cost estimation capabilities while aligning financial decisions with GEGI priorities.
- Monitor complex project budgets, track expenditures, ensure adherence to financial guidelines and policies, and make project finance decisions in concert with Center leadership.
- Facilitate effective communication among project team members, stakeholders, and external partners, showcasing the ability to influence within the GEGI research team and management level and ensuring project goals are clearly understood and achieved.
- Ensure that projects are executed efficiently, on time, and within budget. Conduct regular check-ins with team members to review progress, address any challenges, and provide guidance.
Reporting and Documentation:
- Draft comprehensive grant progress reports for review by the Associate Director, Finance and Administration and Executive Director; prepare project updates and presentations for internal and external audiences, showcasing advanced writing skills.
- Maintain meticulous project documentation. Ensure rigorous compliance with institutional policies, regulatory requirements, and ethical standards.
Team Leadership and Collaboration:
- Provide administrative leadership and guidance to GEGIs team of researchers, exhibiting advanced knowledge in setting project goals, allocating tasks, and monitoring progress, and budget management.
- Champion collaborative and inclusive GEGI team dynamics, fostering effective teamwork, knowledge sharing, and open communication with the potential to impact Center-wide culture.
- Lead regular GEGI team meetings, discussions, and presentations, driving alignment on administration, finance, project objectives, milestones, and outcomes and influencing non-direct reports to ensure project success.
GEGI Fellows Program Development:
- Coordinate and facilitate the administrative aspects of GEGI’s fellows program, showcasing expertise in recruiting fellows, managing the application and selection process, organizing program logistics, facilitating mentorship and training opportunities, and ensuring the program’s success.
- Oversee project evaluation and reporting, demonstrating leadership in creatively dealing with complex administrative situations and ensuring a smooth and impactful fellowship experience for participants.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s Degree in a related field. A Master’s Degree is preferred.
- 5 to 8 years experience in managing projects or programs.
A cover letter is required for all applications.
Boston University employees and their families have access to a range of exceptional benefit programs, including comprehensive health and dental plans, long-term disability coverage fully paid by the University, flexible spending accounts, retirement plans, life insurance, accident insurance for work-related travel, valuable tuition remission, and a generous paid time off plan.
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, natural or protective hairstyle, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military service, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, or because of marital, parental, or veteran status. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.
ApplyFellows Program, 2024-2025, Global Economic Governance Initiative
The Boston University Global Development Policy Center seeks Pre- and Post-doctoral applicants for our Global Economic Governance Fellows Program.
The Global Economic Governance Initiative (GEGI) was founded in 2008 to advance policy-relevant research on international financial, trade and development institutions created in the aftermath of World War II that continue to play a leading role in global economic governance. Within GEGI, research is conducted across three thematic programs: development finance, financial stability and trade and investment rules. GEGI also focuses on emerging and cross-cutting challenges such as just transitions, financial stability and climate change. The Initiative hosts flagship programs, such as the Working Group on Trade Treaties and Access to Medicines and the Task Force on Climate, Development and the International Monetary Fund.
The GEGI Fellows Program offers the opportunity to conduct independent research in line with GEGI’s research areas and participate in GEGI’s research projects, policy engagement and Center-wide activities. Fellows will be expected to support research activities in one or more of the thematic programs, with specific focus on:
- The role of development banks in enhancing climate and development action, particularly in mobilizing resources and facilitating a just transition away from fossil fuels.
- The intersection of the international trade regime with climate change and access to medicines
- Reform of the global debt architecture to be fit-for-purpose and to foster financial stability, particularly in regards to debt sustainability, the global financial safety net and the International Monetary Fund
Desired qualifications:
- Enrolled in or graduated from a PhD program. Predoctoral fellows must be enrolled in doctoral programs. The GDP Center will accept applications from all disciplines, especially the natural and social sciences, engineering and business.
- Strong research interest in one or more of the GEGI areas of focus.
- Quantitative and/or qualitative methodological expertise as appropriate, specifically with Excel and Tableau.
The majority of the fellowships will be awarded for the 2024-2025 academic year. Fellows will receive a competitive stipend and modest funding for data collection and/or fieldwork and potentially be eligible for reimbursement for relocation expenses. This fellowship program is in-person at the GDP Center, Boston University. At this time, we are not able to offer remote fellowships.
To apply: Interested applicants should send the following to Mridhu Khanna (khannam@bu.edu) with the subject line “<<Name>> GEGI Fellow Application 2024-2025″:
- A cover letter that demonstrates interest and experience in GEGI-related research.
- A current curriculum vitae.
- Contact information for two references.
Applicants will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis until December 15, 2023, and are encouraged to apply early. Due to the volume of applicants, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
For International candidates: International candidates will need express approval from their sponsoring institution stating that the potential fellow is allowed to earn income from another institution. This is especially important for international students with J-1 visas. Note: If you do not currently have a valid US scholar visa, certain research positions at Boston University qualify for immigration sponsorship. Prospective scholars should first establish their potential affiliation with the GDP Center as a pre- or post-doctoral fellow and clarify the terms of their appointment. BU’s International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) will work with the prospective scholar and the GDP Center to evaluate which immigration classification is most appropriate. The ISSO will consider various factors such as the appointment/affiliation terms, the scholar’s educational achievements and US immigration history.
SENIOR ACADEMIC RESEARCHER, FINANCIAL STABILITY, Global Economic Governance Initiative
The Boston University Global Development Policy Center seeks a Senior Academic Researcher with a strong background in macroeconomics and development to lead our financial stability workstream at the Global Economic Governance Initiative.
The Global Economic Governance Initiative (GEGI) was founded in 2008 to advance policy-relevant research on international financial, trade, and development institutions created in the aftermath of World War II that continue to play a leading role in global economic governance. Within GEGI, research is conducted across three thematic programs: development finance, financial stability, and trade and investment rules. GEGI also focuses on emerging and cross-cutting challenges such as just transitions, the sovereign debt crisis, and climate change. The initiative hosts a flagship program on the Task Force on Climate, Development, and the International Monetary Fund and co-leads the Debt Relief for a Green and Inclusive Recovery (DRGR) program.
GEGI is seeking a Senior Academic Researcher with backgrounds in international economics, development economics, and environment/climate economics related to:
- Sovereign debt and the global financial architecture
- The macroeconomic dimensions of the green transition and climate resilience
- The Global Financial Safety Net and regional financial arrangements
The Senior Academic Researcher is expected to lead and oversee the financial stability workstream and will guide, plan, and execute future research projects and pursue independent research in one or more of the priority areas of GEGI. In addition to leading these research efforts, the Senior Academic Researcher will routinely engage with policymakers and civil society organizations to advance GEGI’s policy-oriented research findings.
In addition to competitive compensation, the Senior Academic Researcher will receive funding for data collection, fieldwork, and travel to conferences and potentially be eligible for reimbursement for relocation expenses. Senior Academic Researchers will be expected to be in person at Boston University’s GDP Center offices.
Qualifications:
- A completed doctoral degree along with postdoctoral experience. The GDP Center will accept applications from all disciplines but is seeking a candidate with a strong economics and development background. The candidate must have strong quantitative skills.
- Well-versed with ongoing policy discussions and debates on international financial architecture reform and preferably a growing track record of thought leadership and policy engagement.
- Experience with engaging with collaborators and experience with research management.
- A strong research interest and proven track record in the GEGI areas of focus, including a strong grasp of policy discussions and debates.
- Quantitative expertise, specifically with Excel, R, Stata or Python, as needed.
How to apply: Please send a cover letter and CV to Mridhu Khanna at khannam@bu.edu with the subject line <<First Name Last Name – Financial Stability Senior Academic Researcher>>
SENIOR ACADEMIC RESEARCHER, Global Economic Governance Initiative
The Boston University Global Development Policy Center seeks a Senior Academic Researcher with a strong background in global development policy for our Global Economic Governance Initiative.
The Global Economic Governance Initiative (GEGI) was founded in 2008 to advance policy-relevant research on international financial, trade, and development institutions created in the aftermath of World War II that continue to play a leading role in global economic governance. Within GEGI, research is conducted across three thematic programs: development finance, financial stability, and trade and investment rules. GEGI also focuses on emerging and cross-cutting challenges such as just transitions, the sovereign debt crisis, and climate change. The initiative hosts a flagship program on the Task Force on Climate, Development, and the International Monetary Fund and co-leads the Debt Relief for a Green and Inclusive Recovery (DRGR) program.
GEGI is seeking a Senior Academic Researcher with backgrounds in development economics or studies, international economics, environment/climate economics, and international political economy related to:
- Development finance and development banks
- The political economy of development finance institutions
- The economic and social dimensions of the green transition and climate resilience
The Senior Academic Researcher is expected to lead and oversee ongoing research efforts, guide, plan, and execute future research projects and pursue independent research in one or more of the priority areas of GEGI. In addition to leading these research efforts, the Senior Academic Researcher will routinely engage with policymakers and civil society organizations to advance GEGI’s policy-oriented research findings.
In addition to competitive compensation, the Senior Academic Researcher will receive funding for data collection, fieldwork, and travel to conferences and potentially be eligible for reimbursement for relocation expenses. Senior Academic Researchers is an in-person position at Boston University’s GDP Center offices.
Qualifications
- A completed doctoral degree along with postdoctoral experience. The GDP Center will accept applications from all disciplines but is seeking a candidate with strong development background and associated expertise in economics, political economy, or international organizations.
- The candidate must have strong methodological skills. Quantitative skills and expertise in Excel, R, Stata, or Python would be an asset. Research experience involving mixed methods is particularly welcome.
- Well-versed with ongoing policy discussions and debates on global economic governance and preferably a growing track record of thought leadership and policy engagement.
- Track record of engaging with collaborators based in the global south and experience with research management.
- A strong research interest and proven track record in the GEGI focus areas, including a firm grasp of policy discussions and debates.
How to apply: Please send a cover letter and CV to Mridhu Khanna at khannam@bu.edu with the subject line <<First Name Last Name – GEGI Senior Academic Researcher>>
Fellow Program 2024-2025, Global China Initiative
The Boston University Global Development Policy Center seeks Pre- and Post-doctoral applicants for the Global China Fellows Program.
The Global China Initiative (GCI) advances policy-oriented research on China’s overseas economic activity and engagement with international institutions in order to enable financial stability, human well-being and environmental sustainability. GCI research is streamlined into four areas of focus: data analysis for transparency and accountability (DATA); forestry, agriculture, Indigenous rights and the Belt and Road Initiative (FAIR-BRI); energy and climate; and China and the international economic order.
The Global China Fellows recruits and supports Pre- and Post-doctoral fellows from around the world to engage in policy-oriented research and commentary on China’s role in shaping global affairs. In addition to receiving support for their research, fellows contribute to GCI research projects, public research seminars and policy engagement.
Applicant qualifications include:
- Enrolled in or graduated from a PhD program. The GDP Center will accept applications from all disciplines, especially the natural and social sciences, engineering and business.
- Strong research interest in one or more of the GCI areas of focus
- Quantitative and/or qualitative methodological expertise
- Experience in priority geographical regions of interest, in addition to China, such as Africa, Latin America and Southeast Asia. Fluency in Mandarin or a language from one of these regions is preferred.
- Experience in the relationship between China’s overseas engagement and the following issues is most preferred:
- Energy and Climate Change
- Biodiversity and Indigenous lands
- International Economic Institutions
The majority of the fellowships will be awarded for the 2024-2025 academic year. Fellows will receive a competitive stipend and modest funding for data collection and/or fieldwork and potentially be eligible for reimbursement for relocation expenses. Fellows are expected to complete their fellowship in-person at the GDP Center’s offices at Boston University.
To apply:
Interested applicants should send the following to Lin Zhu (lindz@bu.edu) with the subject line “<<Name>> GCI Fellow Application 2024-2025″:
- A cover letter that demonstrates interest and experience in GCI-related research.
- A current curriculum vitae.
- Contact information for two references.
Please send your application materials in PDF format and name your attachments with [LastName, FirstName, Document Type (CV/Cover Letter)].
Applicants will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis until December 15, 2023. Applicants are encouraged to apply early. Due to the volume of applicants, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
For International candidates: International candidates will need express approval from their sponsoring institution stating that the potential fellow is allowed to earn income from another institution. This is especially important for international students with J-1 visas. Note: If you do not currently have a valid US scholar visa, certain research positions at Boston University qualify for immigration sponsorship. Prospective scholars should first establish their potential affiliation with the GDP Center as a pre- or post-doctoral fellow and clarify the terms of their appointment. BU’s International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) will work with the prospective scholar and the GDP Center to evaluate which immigration classification is most appropriate. The ISSO will consider various factors such as the appointment/affiliation terms, the scholar’s educational achievements and US immigration history.
SENIOR ACADEMIC RESEARCHER, ENERGY AND CLIMATE, Global China Initiative
The Boston University Global Development Policy Center seeks an Academic Researcher/Senior Academic Researcher with a strong background in energy and climate to lead our Energy and Climate work stream at the Global China Initiative.
The Global China Initiative (GCI) was founded to advance policy-oriented research on China’s overseas economic activity and engagement with international institutions in order to enable financial stability, human well-being, and environmental sustainability. Within GCI, research is conducted across four programs: energy and climate, Forestry, Agriculture and Indigenous Rights in the Belt and Road (FAIR-BRI), international economic order, and data analysis for transparency and accountability.
GCI is seeking an Academic Researcher/Senior Academic Researcher with a background in energy and climate-related to:
- China’s role in energy transition in developing countries;
- Composition and impacts of China’s overseas energy projects;
- Political and economic factors determining energy choices by China and countries that borrow or receive financing from China.
The primary responsibilities of the Academic Researcher/Senior Academic Researcher on energy and climate topics for GCI will be to conduct rigorous and policy-oriented research on topics related to: China’s global energy finance and implications for climate change; the role of development finance in catalyzing energy transition in developing countries; policy proposals for greening China’s Belt and Road Initiative; and other relevant areas as determined by GCI. The Academic Researcher/Senior Academic Researcher will also be the team leader for GCI’s energy and climate group, synthesizing and managing research across the group and representing the group in internal and external meetings.
In addition to competitive compensation, the Senior Academic Researcher will receive funding for data collection, fieldwork, travel to conferences, as well as potentially be eligible for reimbursement for relocation expenses. This is an in-person position at GDP Center’s offices at Boston University.
Qualifications:
- Advanced degree in public policy, engineering, economics, political science, or related fields; PhD preferred.
- Track record of high-impact publications on topics related to energy and climate change.
- Interest in global development policy and China’s role in energy transition in developing countries.
- Strong writing skills, including technical writing as well as the ability to summarize technical research with a wider audience of media and policymakers.
- Demonstrated project and program management experience.
- Working proficiency in Mandarin
How to apply: Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until October 1, 2023. Please send a cover letter and CV to Lin Zhu at lindz@bu.edu with the subject line <<First Name Last Name GCI Senior Academic Researcher>>
PROJECT COORDINATOR, Global China Initiative
The Boston University Global Development Policy (GDP) Center is hiring for a Project Coordinator to support the programmatic, finance, and administrative functions of the Global China Initiative (GCI). The Project Coordinator will report to the GCI Program Manager and Associate Director of Finance and Administration and will play a cross-functional role in research and administration operations. The GDP Center is a University-wide research center that focuses on policy-oriented research for financial stability, human well-being, and environmental sustainability. We conduct rigorous policy research, provide a platform for scholars and stakeholders, engage in policy dialogue with policymakers and civil society, and offer experiential learning for Boston University students. GCI examines how Chinese overseas economic activity and engagement with international institutions contribute to a more stable, socially inclusive, and environmentally sustainable world economy. GCI has three research programs: Energy and Climate, Forestry, Agriculture, and Indigenous Rights in the Belt and Road Initiative, and China and the International Economic Order. GCI also manages a suite of interactive public databases tracking Chinese loans and investments in sectors such as energy and infrastructure development.
Responsibilities:
Program/Project Coordination: Coordinate and support GCI program manager to help keep projects on track. Assist in the tracking of projects and timelines. Coordinate the execution of programmatic activities, including literature sessions, workshops, and conferences. Coordinate the GCI Fellows program, including providing support for recruitment and onboarding. Coordinate with student workers and research assistants on project staffing. Support the program manager in liaising with research partners domestically and internationally.
Sourcing & Procurement: In concert with the program manager and the Associate Director, Finance & Administration, conduct thorough research, identify potential vendors, and establish effective communication channels for acquiring proposals and contracting a wide range of goods and services required by the organization.
Boston University employees and their families have access to a range of exceptional benefit programs, including comprehensive health and dental plans, long-term disability coverage fully paid by the University, flexible spending accounts, retirement plans, life insurance, accident insurance for work-related travel, valuable tuition remission, and a generous paid time off plan.
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military service, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, or because of marital, parental, or veteran status. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.
How to apply: Please send your cover letter and resume via BU Human Resources.
Page last updated: September 28, 2023.