Duke University, Fuqua School of Business
** (posted 2025/10/06, listed until 2025/10/21)
Position Description
Research Associate position at Duke University's Fuqua School of Business, Strategy Area We invite applications for an Associate in Research to join an exciting research initiative focused on entrepreneurship in the minibus taxi industry in South Africa. The research, led by Jon Zinman (Dartmouth College), Filippo Mezzanotti (Northwestern University), Apoorv Gupta (Dartmouth College), and F. Christopher Eaglin (Duke University), involves managing a series of randomized control trials (RCTs) within a leading lender of minbus taxis (“the company”). To do so, the successful applicant will need to manage complex quantitative (spatial, cross-sectional, longitudinal, survey) and qualitative (interviews and field observation) data to help shape a series of RCTs focused on improving the performance of the company’s customers. This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in high-level research, project management, and applied econometrics while contributing to the growing field of entrepreneurship in South Africa. Key Responsibilities: •Assist in the day-to-day operations of randomized control trials with small firms in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. •Assist in data collection, ensure data integrity, and conduct advanced econometric analysis. •Collaborate with researchers and local partners to ensure project goals are met. •Contribute to the development of reports, academic papers, and presentations. •Ensure project timelines and milestones are adhered to, with an ability to adapt to changes within a complex organization. •Complete ad-hoc requests for the company in relationship to data management and analysis Qualifications: •Strong Undergraduate or Masters degree in Economics/Statistics/Mathematics or a related field desirable but not required with expertise in econometrics and field experiments. •Strong proficiency in statistical software (e.g., Stata, R, or Python). •Proven experience managing complex projects, preferably in organizational or corporate settings. •Solid knowledge of the entrepreneurship ecosystem in South Africa. •Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex findings clearly to both academic and non-academic audiences. •Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks in a changing environment. •Prior experience with randomized control trials or experimental research preferred but not necessary Starting date is October 21, 2025. Competitive salaries and standard benefits are offered. This is a dynamic research environment with the opportunity to publish in leading academic journals. There is the potential for a one-year renewal based on performance.Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation, or military status.
Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas—an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.
Application Materials Required:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Other document -- Transcript or diploma of highest degree
- Example of research output
- Three references (no actual letters, just names and email addresses )
Further Info:
100 Fuqua Drive
Duke University, Box 90120
Durham, NC 27708-0120