Apply for CSAE Predoctoral Fellow at University of Oxford 2026 — Work on Global Development Research @University of Oxford 2026 — Work on Global Development Research

Are you looking to gain hands-on experience in development economics research at a world-leading institution? The CSAE Predoctoral Fellow position at the University of Oxford offers an exceptional opportunity to work closely with leading researchers while contributing to impactful studies on global development challenges.

Hosted within the Department of Economics, this role places the selected candidate in Associate Professor Dennis Egger’s research group, focusing on macro-experimental development, including the impacts of cash transfers and social protection programs in countries such as Malawi, Rwanda, and Ethiopia.

This position is ideal for candidates planning to pursue a PhD or research-focused career, offering direct exposure to high-level academic research and policy-relevant work.

About the Programme

The Centre for the Study of African Economies (CSAE) at the University of Oxford is one of the world’s leading research centres dedicated to understanding economic development, particularly in Africa. The CSAE community brings together researchers working on poverty, policy, and economic transformation.

As a Predoctoral Fellow, you will join a dynamic research environment within the Department of Economics. You will contribute to ongoing research projects while gaining valuable insights into experimental and empirical methods used in development economics.

Working under the supervision of Associate Professor Dennis Egger, the role focuses on research examining how social protection programs — such as cash transfers — affect economic outcomes and livelihoods in low-income settings.

Why This Opportunity Matters

Predoctoral fellowships are a critical stepping stone for individuals aiming to pursue PhDs or careers in academic research. This position provides a rare opportunity to work within a globally recognized institution while contributing to meaningful, policy-relevant research.

The experience gained through this role — from data analysis to research design — equips fellows with the skills needed to succeed in competitive graduate programs and research environments.

Moreover, by focusing on real-world issues such as poverty and social protection, this fellowship allows participants to engage in work that has the potential to influence policy and improve lives.

What Participants Will Gain

One of the most significant advantages of this opportunity is the direct exposure to cutting-edge research in development economics.

Selected fellows will work closely with academic researchers on active projects, contributing to data collection, analysis, and research outputs. This hands-on experience helps build strong technical and analytical skills that are essential for graduate-level study and research careers.

Fellows will also gain experience using quantitative tools and methodologies commonly used in economics research, including data analysis, experimental design, and impact evaluation techniques.

In addition, the position offers the opportunity to be part of the wider CSAE research network. This includes engaging with seminars, workshops, and discussions led by leading economists, providing exposure to diverse research topics and approaches.

The role also significantly strengthens academic and professional profiles. Experience at the University of Oxford is highly regarded and can support future applications for PhD programs, research positions, and policy roles.

Finally, working on projects focused on social protection and poverty reduction allows fellows to contribute to research that has real-world policy implications and societal impact.

Who Can Apply

This opportunity is ideal for individuals who are preparing for advanced study or a career in economics or related fields.

Applicants typically have:

• A strong academic background in economics, development studies, or related disciplines
• Quantitative and analytical skills
• An interest in development economics and policy research
• Experience or familiarity with data analysis tools (such as Stata, R, or Python)

Candidates who are motivated, detail-oriented, and interested in research related to poverty, social protection, and economic development are particularly well-suited for this role.

Research Focus Areas

The fellowship will involve research on macro-experimental development, with a particular focus on:

• Cash transfer programs
• Social protection systems
• Economic impacts in low-income countries
• Field research in Malawi, Rwanda, and Ethiopia

These areas are highly relevant to global development policy and contribute to understanding how interventions can improve livelihoods and reduce poverty.

Application Process and Deadline

Applicants must apply through the official University of Oxford recruitment system and submit all required documents, including academic transcripts and supporting materials.

Application Deadline: 06 April 2026

Early preparation is recommended, as the selection process is competitive and requires strong academic and research credentials.

Learn more and apply through the official Oxford CSAE page.

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