Open Position: Research Fellow (Full-Time)

In this role, you will join a small but experienced, intrepid, and dedicated team in building out analytical products, data-driven research, and other digital content for MacroPolo, the think tank of the Paulson Institute.

As Research Fellow, you will be primarily responsible for developing research and analysis on the intersection of technology and policy and its implications for the economy and US-China relations. This will include both sectoral and industry research, as well as interdisciplinary work that harnesses data and other tools to generate differentiated products. You will work closely with the Fellow leading on tech coverage to build on existing work streams, while also conceptualizing new analytical products and developing your own functional specializations.

You should already have a solid understanding of the Chinese economy and tech ecosystem and have had some experience working in the research/analysis field, whether in the public or private sector. In addition, you will have a record of high-quality publications in print or digital outlets.

The ideal candidate should be highly motivated, have strong analytical skills, and have a nose for interesting and relevant research questions for MacroPolo’s audiences that span policy, markets, business, and academia. Experience working in China in a relevant field is also beneficial.

In addition to working collaboratively with the analytical team, you should also be able to independently determine and execute your own research agenda and products, as well as publish under your own byline without excessive supervision. Finally, you should feel comfortable operating in a relatively flat, fast-paced, and performance-oriented culture.

Location: Chicago

Responsibilities include (but are not limited to):

• Research and analyze the tech sector, relevant tech policy, and cross-cutting issues that affect US- China relations;
• Conduct both quantitative and qualitative analysis on various aspects of the Chinese economy, tech ecosystem, and specific industries;
• Lead and execute analytical products by building on existing work of the MacroPolo team;

• Define new areas of specialization and develop comparative work that align with core competence;
• Engage in external writing, publications, and speaking engagements;
• Manage student fellows and interns and engage with the University of Chicago.

Qualifications:

• A Master’s degree in relevant field and authorization to work in US;
• Demonstrable experience working in economics, political economy, and/or technology industry research, with a record of publications and writing;
• Excellent analytical and research skills and the ability to write effectively and communicate clearly in English (native or near-native);
• Ability to conduct research in Chinese language and primary sources a must;
• A good understanding of target audiences for analytical products and specialized research;
• Sectoral/functional expertise preferred but not necessary.

Salary and Benefits: Competitive and commensurate with experience

Contact: All inquiries and applications, including CV, cover letter, and other materials, should be submitted to Damien Ma (dma@paulsoninstitute.org). No phone calls please.

About MacroPolo:

MacroPolo is the in-house think tank of the Paulson Institute in Chicago. We decode China’s economic arrival with our incisive, market-relevant analysis and creative research products. Our work spans three core areas: economics, technology, and politics.

At MacroPolo, we are building a truly 21st century think tank. Instead of long research papers, we specialize in thoughtfully designed digital interactives as well as dynamic content and databases. Our multinational team of experts provides timely commentary, valuable insights, and best-in-class research to market participants, corporate leaders, and policymakers.