Pre-Doctoral Research Fellow in Development Economics at Cornell University Cornell University in United States

The Cornell Collaborative for International Development Economics Research (CIDER) at Cornell University is seeking applications for a Pre-Doctoral Research Fellow position based in Ithaca, NY. This full-time, post-baccalaureate fellowship is ideal for individuals planning to pursue PhD programs in economics, agricultural and resource economics, development studies, public policy, or related fields. Fellows will work closely with Cornell faculty, including Chris Bates, Heather Schofield, and John Hoddinott, on policy-relevant research addressing global challenges such as poverty, food insecurity, agriculture, rural development, and structural transformation.

The role offers hands-on experience in supporting quantitative and empirical research, close mentorship from leading development economists, and access to Cornell’s vibrant research community through seminars, workshops, and professional development opportunities. There may also be potential for field research depending on the fellow’s skills and interests. The position is cohort-based, providing a collaborative training environment.

Applicants should have a strong quantitative background, particularly in econometrics and statistics, with proficiency in Stata or R. Prior research experience or coursework in economics or related fields is required, and a demonstrated interest in development economics and PhD-level research is essential. The position welcomes applicants with OPT/STEM OPT, and limited J-1 sponsorship may be available. The fellowship is onsite in Ithaca, NY, for a term of one year with the possibility of renewal for up to two years. The salary range is $65,447 to $75,632 per year.

To apply, candidates should visit the Cornell Workday job portal and follow the application instructions. This opportunity is ideal for those seeking to deepen their research experience in development economics and related fields before pursuing doctoral studies.