Blueprint Labs is hiring multiple Research Fellows based at MIT in Cambridge, MA. Blueprint Labs uses data, econometrics, and analytic tools to generate insights on the consequences of policy choices and improve society. Based in the Department of Economics at MIT, Blueprint Labs consists of academic affiliates who represent leading economic thinkers, full-time staff members, and graduate researchers. Blueprint Labs works closely with academic, government, and nonprofit institutions across the country to generate pioneering research that informs policy and practice in education, health care, and the workforce.
We are seeking motivated, independent, and organized Research Fellows to support education initiatives. The Research Fellows will work closely with one or more of the Blueprint Labs Directors or Co-Directors, including Josh Angrist, Parag Pathak, and David Autor, plus collaborators at other universities. This position also offers the opportunity to collaborate with other Blueprint Labs research staff and external policy and data partners. A research fellowship at Blueprint Labs combines the academic exposure of a standard “econ predoc” with industry best-practices, like a supportive cohort model, and is designed for fellows to plan the next stage of their careers. Research Fellows gain work experience with advanced research methods, collaborate with leading researchers, and develop their research skills in a rigorous and methodical environment. Previous fellows have gone on to master’s and PhD programs or careers in consulting, tech, government, economics, K-12 education, policy, and more. Learn more about working at Blueprint in our hiring video.
Blueprint Labs is a team of administrative staff and researchers. The administrative staff provide structure through what we call “staff coaching,” which allows Research Fellows to focus on conducting research while receiving guidance on other matters. Blueprint Labs supports professional development (both academic and nonacademic), mentorship, attending conferences and seminars, and social events (ask us about our Social Committee!). The peer community of fellows meets weekly to discuss common challenges, plan events, and discuss research.
Research Fellows receive a full-time, one-year appointment that is renewable annually, contingent on funding and mutual agreement. A two-year minimum employment term is strongly preferred. This position will begin as soon as possible at Blueprint’s office in Cambridge, MA and must start no later than the end of summer 2024. Blueprint understands that candidates may need to first complete a degree program or transition from another full-time role.
The starting salary for a Research Fellow is $65,000-66,000 and includes standard MIT employee benefits. Employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background check. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
The Research Fellow will work on research projects with MIT faculty members and additional affiliated faculty. Specific responsibilities include constructing and preparing data for analysis, conducting analysis in Stata, Python, and/or R (or similar), presenting results and engaging in discussion in project meetings, and editing papers for publication. Fellows can also expect to manage advanced code bases and communicate results to different audiences. Other duties will arise as needed. This position requires a high level of independent judgement and presents opportunities for professional development and on-the-job learning.
For the 2024 spring hiring cycle, Blueprint is hiring two fellows for multiple projects, and candidates will rank preference for the role or roles that best suit your skills and interests. Please note in your cover letter which role(s) you’re applying to.
MINIMUM REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
We encourage you to apply even if you do not possess every qualification and skill listed.
AND
*For the spring 2024 hiring cycle, Blueprint is hiring fellows for multiple projects, and candidates are required to rank your preference of the role or roles that best suit your skills and interests. Please note in your cover letter which role(s) you’re applying to and select the appropriate boxes in the Google Form.
**Blueprint Labs values diversity, equity, belonging, and inclusivity in our work and the broader perspectives our staff bring. We encourage people of color, first generation college students/graduates, and other underrepresented groups to apply to this role. In your cover letter, please consider sharing how your racial, ethnic, gender, socioeconomic and/or other identity has influenced your desire to work at Blueprint. This is not required, but rather an opportunity for us to get to know you. Read more about the MIT Economics Department’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
The priority application deadline is Tuesday, April 30th at 11:59pm ET. We will continue to accept applications after the priority deadline on a rolling basis. We maintain the Careers page on our website with the latest open roles.
Candidates who apply by the priority deadline and advance to further stages can expect the following additional activities:
If you apply after the priority deadline, the hiring process mirrors the steps above but will follow a variable timeline.
Please consult our Frequently Asked Questions page to learn more about the hiring process. Questions not addressed in the FAQ should be directed to hiring@mitblueprintlabs.org.
MIT is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, ancestry, or national or ethnic origin.
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