Research & Policy Manager

University of Chicago • Chicago, IL

3d • $82,000 - $90,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

DIL is seeking a dynamic Research & Policy Manager to oversee and coordinate organizational research projects from inception to completion, and guide the translation of research insights into actionable policy recommendations and scaling initiatives. The successful candidate will manage project deliverables, provide logistical support, facilitate communication across stakeholders, and ensure projects are delivered on time and aligned with organizational goals. This role requires strong organizational skills, the ability to work independently while supporting collaborative teams, and experience managing complex, multi-faceted initiatives. The Research & Policy Manager will serve as a key liaison between leadership, research teams, implementation partners, and stakeholders.

Requirements

• Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
• Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision as well as collaboratively in team settings.
• Strong cross cultural communication abilities.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills; ability to synthesize complex information for diverse audiences.
• Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize effectively and handle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in project management tools and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience in one or more sectors related to DIL’s work (including agriculture, education, water treatment and child health).

Responsibilities

• Helps develop and conduct research projects according to plan, providing direct support on research projects as needed.
• Ensures that all aspects of the research projects are being conducted effectively and in a timely manner.
• Ensures sufficient research support through regular meetings and involvement in project planning and timelines.
• Oversees output produced by research staff, including junior researchers, and allocates tasks that contribute to building the lab.
• Guides data collection, evaluation and analysis, and contributes to writing research reports, articles and papers.
• Conducts literature reviews.
• Develops and maintains effective working relations with internal and external stakeholders, including partners and funders.
• Coordinates and supports preparation for stakeholder meetings, and presentations.
• Coordinates day-to-day project activities, including preparing for and facilitating meetings, ensuring tasks are completed on time and aligned with project goals.
• Develop and maintain relationships with partners, funders, and other collaborators; coordinate across stakeholder groups to facilitate smooth communication and collaboration.
• Coordinate project communications including drafting support materials, presentations, and reports for various audiences; develop policy and outreach materials to support further project development and scaling.
• Assist with developing and refining processes and procedures for project implementation, tracking, and reporting.
• Support development of high-quality project outputs including literature reviews, data summaries, and presentations; assist in synthesizing research findings and translating them for policy, practitioners, and general audiences.
• Provide guidance, training and support to junior staff and project team members; support recruitment efforts.
• Uses subject matter and best practices knowledge to perform lab and/or research-related duties and tasks.
• Works independently to assist with project design.
• Solves complex problems relating to the administration of projects, including planning new procedures, adapting existing procedures to the needs of the project, and making significant contributions to methodology.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Benefits

• The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees