Center for Global Development Seeks a Research Analyst for Smart Buys Alliance in London – Apply By 6 August 2026 @Unknown

The Center for Global Development (CGD) is inviting applications for the position of Research Analyst to support the Smart Buys Alliance (SBA) in London, United Kingdom. This exciting opportunity is ideal for experienced professionals with expertise in economics, public policy, international development, and quantitative research who are passionate about improving evidence-based decision-making in global development.

The full-time position is offered on a fixed-term contract until 29 February 2028, with the possibility of extension subject to future funding. Based in London, the successful candidate will contribute to high-impact policy research that informs donor agencies, governments, and development organisations on the world’s most cost-effective development interventions.

Applications close on 6 August 2026 at 5:00 PM BST.

About the Center for Global Development

The Center for Global Development is an independent, non-partisan, non-profit policy research organisation with offices in Washington, D.C., and London. CGD conducts rigorous research aimed at addressing some of the most pressing global development challenges, focusing on policies and institutions that promote inclusive economic growth and sustainable development.

Through collaboration with governments, international institutions, philanthropies, and development partners, the organisation works to improve policies that benefit low- and middle-income countries.

About the Smart Buys Alliance

The Smart Buys Alliance is a collaborative initiative that brings together leading research institutions, donor agencies, and philanthropic organisations to identify and promote the most cost-effective development interventions.

The alliance operates through three strategic pillars:

• Developing evidence-based Smart Buy lists.
• Supporting implementation while strengthening the evidence base.
• Building a collaborative global community of practice.

The alliance includes several internationally recognised organisations, including:

• Center for Global Development (CGD)
• Center for Effective Global Action (CEGA)
• Cooperation Globale
• Global Poverty Research Lab (GPRL)
• Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL)

Together, these organisations support governments and donors in making better-informed investment decisions that maximise development impact.

About the Research Analyst Role

The Research Analyst will provide research, analytical, operational, and coordination support to CGD’s contribution to the Smart Buys Alliance.

Reporting to Michelle Rao, Fellow at CGD Europe, the successful candidate will work closely with multidisciplinary research teams to generate policy-relevant evidence and support collaborative initiatives across international development.

The role combines quantitative research, policy analysis, stakeholder coordination, and event support, making it well suited to candidates with strong analytical and organisational skills.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will contribute across several areas of the project.

Research and Analysis

Responsibilities include:

• Conducting literature reviews.
• Collecting, cleaning, and analysing research data.
• Performing quantitative analysis.
• Using large language models for textual analysis.
• Supporting research on evidence use in international development policy.
• Conducting cost-effectiveness and heterogeneity analyses.
• Drafting research papers, policy reports, blogs, and technical publications.
• Monitoring initiatives that promote evidence-informed policymaking.

The role requires a strong commitment to producing rigorous research that can directly influence international development policies.

Policy Engagement and Convenings

The Research Analyst will also support stakeholder engagement activities by:

• Organising workshops and policy roundtables.
• Coordinating launch events.
• Managing meeting logistics.
• Scheduling participants across multiple time zones.
• Supporting travel arrangements for partners and collaborators.

These responsibilities help ensure effective collaboration among international organisations, donors, and research institutions.

Required Qualifications

Applicants should possess:

• A Master’s degree in Economics, Public Policy, International Development, or a closely related discipline.
• At least four years of professional experience in economic analysis or international development policy.
• Strong empirical research experience.
• Excellent quantitative analytical skills.
• Experience conducting academic or policy-focused research.

Candidates should demonstrate the ability to translate complex research findings into accessible policy recommendations for decision-makers.

Technical Skills

The ideal candidate will have experience using research and statistical software, including:

• R
• Stata

Additional experience with the following will be advantageous:

• Python
• Git
• Large language models for textual analysis
• Evidence synthesis methodologies
• Causal inference techniques

Strong data visualisation skills and experience working with complex datasets are highly desirable.

Additional Skills and Competencies

CGD is looking for professionals who demonstrate:

• Excellent written communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Outstanding organisational abilities.
• Experience supporting committees or multi-stakeholder initiatives.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Experience coordinating events and meetings.
• Collaborative working style across international teams.
• Ability to work effectively across different institutions and time zones.

Experience in communications or social media management will be considered an added advantage.

Employment Details

Key information about the position includes:

• Organisation: Center for Global Development
• Position: Research Analyst
• Location: London, United Kingdom
• Employment type: Full-time
• Contract: Fixed-term until 29 February 2028
• Start date: As soon as possible
• Salary: £46,725–£51,187 per annum, plus excellent benefits
• Office requirement: Minimum three days per week
• Closing date: 6 August 2026 at 5:00 PM BST

Applicants must already possess, or be able to obtain, the legal right to live and work in the United Kingdom.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit:

• Updated curriculum vitae (CV).
• Cover letter explaining how they meet the role requirements.
• Sample of professional or academic writing.

Applicants will also be asked whether they require visa sponsorship or future work authorisation support.

CGD has confirmed that all applications are reviewed manually, with no artificial intelligence or automated systems used during the initial screening process.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

The Center for Global Development is an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce.

Applications are welcomed from qualified candidates regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, disability, religion, age, sexual orientation, veteran status, political affiliation, or other protected characteristics.

By joining the Smart Buys Alliance, the successful Research Analyst will contribute to research that helps governments and development organisations allocate resources more effectively, improve public policy, and maximise development outcomes across low- and middle-income countries.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.