Principal Researcher

Department

BFI - Research

About the Department

The Becker Friedman Institute for Economics serves as a hub for cutting-edge analysis and research across the entire University of Chicago economics community, uniting researchers from the Booth School of Business, the Kenneth C. Griffin Department of Economics, the Harris School of Public Policy, and the Law School in an unparalleled effort to uncover new ways of thinking about economics. We put those ideas into action by translating rigorous research into accessible and relevant formats, and proactively disseminating it to key decision-makers around the world.

Job Summary

The Principal Researcher role provides a supportive research environment to a highly qualified recent PhD. In collaboration with BFI Deputy Director, Chad Syverson, the Principal Researcher will pursue research on leading edge themes in the study of economics. The specific area of study will reflect the research interests of the candidate. It is expected that the Principal Researcher will attach themselves to one of the seminar series on campus as a regular attendee and meeting with speakers.

Responsibilities

• Conducts collaborative research with faculty to be presented at academic forums and published in peer-reviewed academic journals.
• Collects data and conducts statistical analysis.
• Conducts literature reviews and performs research.
• Uses subject matter and best practices knowledge to perform lab and/or research-related duties and tasks. Works independently to assist with project design.
• Guides data collection, evaluation and analysis. Designs and manages databases. Writes reports, articles and manuscripts.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

---

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• ABD status by start date.
• PhD preferred by start date in a field relevant to the research being conducted. 
• PhD after one year of employment.

Experience:

• Five years of relevant research experience; experience gained in school counts towards this requirement.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

• Proficiency in Python and other related software, such as MATLAB, R, Julia, SQL, and data analysis/optimization libraries.

Preferred Competencies

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
• Work independently.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)
• Transcripts, unofficial transcripts accepted (required)
• Two Professional References Contact Information (required)

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Salary

​
FLSA Status

Exempt

​
Pay Range

$85,000.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

 

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

 

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.  A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.  Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

 

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.