Research & Policy Manager

About the University of Chicago Development Innovation Lab:
The Development Innovation Lab at the University of Chicago uses the tools of economics to develop innovations with the potential to benefit millions of people in low- and middle-income countries. It was founded and is led by Nobel laureate Michael Kremer.

Job Summary:
The job manages scientific research projects or scientific research facilities. Uses considerable on-the-job experience to ensure compliance of research activities with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies. Works independently to write articles, reports and manuscripts, and presents research findings at meetings and/or conferences.

DIL is seeking a dynamic Research & Policy Manager to oversee and coordinate organizational research projects from inception to completion, and guide the translation of research insights into actionable policy recommendations and scaling initiatives. The successful candidate will manage project deliverables, provide logistical support, facilitate communication across stakeholders, and ensure projects are delivered on time and aligned with organizational goals. This role requires strong organizational skills, the ability to work independently while supporting collaborative teams, and experience managing complex, multi-faceted initiatives. The Research & Policy Manager will serve as a key liaison between leadership, research teams, implementation partners, and stakeholders.

Responsibilities:
- Helps develop and conduct research projects according to plan, providing direct support on research projects as needed. Ensures that all aspects of the research projects are being conducted effectively and in a timely manner.
- Ensures sufficient research support through regular meetings and involvement in project planning and timelines. Oversees output produced by research staff, including junior researchers, and allocates tasks that contribute to building the lab.
- Guides data collection, evaluation and analysis, and contributes to writing research reports, articles and papers. Conducts literature reviews.
- Develops and maintains effective working relations with internal and external stakeholders, including partners and funders. Coordinates and supports preparation for stakeholder meetings, and presentations.
- Coordinates day-to-day project activities, including preparing for and facilitating meetings, ensuring tasks are completed on time and aligned with project goals.
- Develop and maintain relationships with partners, funders, and other collaborators; coordinate across stakeholder groups to facilitate smooth communication and collaboration.
- Coordinate project communications including drafting support materials, presentations, and reports for various audiences; develop policy and outreach materials to support further project development and scaling.
- Assist with developing and refining processes and procedures for project implementation, tracking, and reporting.
- Support development of high-quality project outputs including literature reviews, data summaries, and presentations; assist in synthesizing research findings and translating them for policy, practitioners, and general audiences.
- Provide guidance, training and support to junior staff and project team members; support recruitment efforts.
- Uses subject matter and best practices knowledge to perform lab and/or research-related duties and tasks. Works independently to assist with project design.
- Solves complex problems relating to the administration of projects, including planning new procedures, adapting existing procedures to the needs of the project, and making significant contributions to methodology.
- 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.

Preferred Competencies:
- Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision as well as collaboratively in team settings.
- Strong cross cultural communication abilities.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills; ability to synthesize complex information for diverse audiences.
- Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail.
- Ability to prioritize effectively and handle multiple projects simultaneously.
- Proficiency in project management tools and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Experience in one or more sectors related to DIL's work (including agriculture, education, water treatment and child health).

Working Conditions:
- Candidates must be willing to travel extensively and flexibly as needed for their respective responsibilities.
- This is a hybrid position, with an expected 3 days in-person per week. Candidates will be expected to flexibly come into the office as needed.