At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead quantitative research and evaluation in a dynamic, interdisciplinary team.
- Company: Blavatnik School of Government, renowned for impactful public sector research.
- Benefits: 38 days annual leave, excellent pension scheme, and remote working options.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for mentorship and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public policy through innovative research methods.
- Qualifications: PhD in economics or related field; strong quantitative research skills required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
We are seeking a researcher with strong expertise in quantitative methods, causal inference, and applied econometrics, and the flexibility to work in a complex, fast-moving, multi-method evaluation environment. The TLG programme operates in settings that do not always allow for neat experimental design, with adaptive, place-based interventions. The postholder will need to combine technical rigour with judgement, including when to use quasi-experimental methods, when evaluability conditions are not met, and how to communicate uncertainty clearly.
This is a senior role within the GO Lab evaluation team for TLG, responsible for quantitative and economic research within the wider evaluation. The postholder will contribute to analysis and methodological development, while also supervising and mentoring at least one researcher. Working in a collaborative, interdisciplinary team, the role will support impact evaluation, Value for Money and Value for Investment analysis, portfolio-level quantitative work, as well as publications, funding bids, and policy-relevant outputs.
Qualifications
You will hold a PhD/DPhil in economics, econometrics, statistics, public policy, or a closely related quantitative discipline, with post‑qualification research experience. There is also the possibility to underfill the role, in which case hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as economics, econometrics, statistics, public policy, or a closely related quantitative discipline.
You will have a strong publication record or clear potential to produce publishable research, and familiarity with the relevant literature in applied econometrics, causal inference, and public sector evaluation. You will have strong specialist knowledge of quantitative research methods and applied econometrics, including causal inference techniques such as Difference-in-Differences, RCTs, matching, or instrumental variables, enabling you to develop independent research projects and methodologies.
You will be able to independently plan and manage research activity, including contributing to budget management and prioritising work in a complex, multi‑strand evaluation, as well as contributing to grant applications and future funding proposals.
Location
Blavatnik School of Government, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Woodstock Road, Oxford OX26GG
Benefits
- An excellent contributory pension scheme
- 38 days' annual leave
- Family leave schemes and a comprehensive range of childcare services
- Cycle loan scheme and discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
- Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
- Opportunities for remote working.
Postdoctoral Quantitative Researcher - Economics lead (Government Outcomes Lab) - Public Sector[...] in Oxford employer: University of Oxford
The Blavatnik School of Government offers a dynamic and collaborative work environment, ideal for those passionate about impactful research in the public sector. With generous benefits such as 38 days of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for remote working, employees are supported in achieving a healthy work-life balance while contributing to meaningful evaluations that shape government policy. The school fosters professional growth through mentorship and interdisciplinary collaboration, making it an excellent employer for aspiring researchers in economics and public policy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Quantitative Researcher - Economics lead (Government Outcomes Lab) - Public Sector[...] in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the field of economics and quantitative research. Attend conferences, webinars, or local meetups to connect with potential colleagues and mentors who can give you insights into the job market.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your quantitative research projects, publications, and any relevant methodologies you've mastered. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and being ready to discuss your approach to complex evaluation scenarios. Practice articulating how you would handle uncertainty and adapt methods in real-world settings.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We often have openings that might not be advertised elsewhere. Keep an eye on our listings and make sure your application reflects your unique skills and experiences.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Quantitative Researcher - Economics lead (Government Outcomes Lab) - Public Sector[...] in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your expertise in quantitative methods and causal inference. We want to see how your skills align with the specific needs of the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant experience!
Showcase Your Research Experience:Since this is a senior role, it’s crucial to emphasise your post-qualification research experience. Include details about your publications and any projects that demonstrate your ability to manage complex evaluations and contribute to methodological development.
Communicate Clearly:In your application, make sure to communicate your understanding of uncertainty and the nuances of evaluation methods. We appreciate clarity, so use straightforward language to explain your approach to tackling complex research questions.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Know Your Quantitative Methods
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of quantitative methods, causal inference, and applied econometrics. Be ready to discuss specific techniques like Difference-in-Differences or RCTs, and how you've applied them in past research. This will show that you not only understand the theory but can also apply it practically.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility in Research Design
Given the complex evaluation environment mentioned in the job description, be prepared to talk about how you've adapted your research designs in challenging situations. Share examples where you had to use quasi-experimental methods or deal with evaluability conditions, highlighting your judgement and problem-solving skills.
✨Communicate Uncertainty Effectively
Since communicating uncertainty is key in this role, practice explaining your findings and methodologies clearly and concisely. Use examples from your previous work to illustrate how you’ve communicated complex ideas to non-experts, ensuring they understand the implications of your research.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
This position involves working in a collaborative, interdisciplinary team, so be ready to discuss your experience in teamwork. Highlight instances where you’ve mentored others or contributed to group projects, demonstrating your ability to support and lead within a research environment.
