BASIC FUNCTION

The Africa Growth Initiative (AGI), a research project from the The Global Economy and Development Program at The Brookings Institution (Brookings), is accepting applications for a Senior Fellow or Fellow with expertise in African economic growth issues and development. In coordination with the AGI Director, the Senior Fellow or Fellow will conduct original research and writing on these topics and their relationship to the effective management of natural resources, development of strong social protection policies, industrial growth, and agricultural productivity. In addition, the Senior Fellow or Fellow will conduct research and writing on policy issues to contribute to and help shape U.S. relations with Africa.

The successful candidate should hold a Ph.D. in economics or a related field, with an understanding of the critical development challenges facing the region. Substantive professional experience can be a substitute for a terminal degree. For Fellow candidates, a successful applicant should have a minimum of 3 years of post-doctoral research experience or a relevant professional background in the field of economics, politics, international relations, and/or development. Appointment will be at the Fellow or Senior Fellow level, depending upon the experience and qualifications of the candidate.

While the candidate’s specific research program will depend to some extent on the scholar’s interests and background, the candidate should have a deep understanding of key African development issues. The candidate must also collaborate with AGI’s partner think tanks across the continent and identify opportunities to link their research to policy debates in Washington, D.C.

The candidate must have an established record of publication in professional or academic journals and a proven ability to conduct original policy research and analysis. The candidate will conduct in-depth research, produce book-length monographs, and competently lead issue-focused meetings, conferences, and other events with little supervision. Strong candidates should have extensive contacts among the higher levels of the government, academic, media, and business communities in Africa, and must be comfortable working with high-ranking decision-makers, senior government and diplomatic officials, current and potential funders, and Brookings senior management. Moreover, the candidate must be willing to share management responsibilities with the AGI Director and be comfortable working in teams.

Outstanding written and oral communication skills in English and fluency is required; proficiency in Portuguese or French is preferred.

Salary will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and experience. Starting date is negotiable; however, filling the position by early 2013, is preferred. Applicants should submit a full resume complete with a list of publications plus a description of research interests and priorities.

Only applicants meeting minimum qualifications for the position will be considered. Successful completion of a background investigation is required for employment in this position. No phone calls please. Brookings welcomes resumes from all qualified applicants, particularly women and minorities.