Economist

Cambodia Development Resource Institute (CDRI)
Location Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Application deadline 15 December 2024
Contract type Fixed term
Hours Full-time
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CDRI is an independent policy research institute working to produce independent, objective, high quality policy-relevant development research, to maximise its accessibility to policy makers, influencers and stakeholders and to have it affect policy in five interrelated areas:
(i) Policy Research in Agriculture and Rural Development; (ii) Development Economics and Trade; (iii) Educational Research and Innovation; (iv) Natural Resource and Environment; and (v) Governance and Inclusive Society.

CDRI undertakes its programmes and projects in partnership with Cambodian government institutions and their international development partners, other research and tertiary education institutions and civil society organisations. It disseminates its research knowledge and products through a number of communication strategies: conferences, workshops, seminars, broadcast media, print media, library collection and information sharing, small group communication and interpersonal communication.

CDRI is located in the suburb of Tuol Kork, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. It has around 60-70 staff including management, professional and technical staff, administrative and support staff, all of them are Cambodian. It has a strong commitment to the capacity development and professional skills of its staff, many of whom, after being trained at CDRI, go on to contribute to other Cambodian and international organisations involved in their country’s development.

CDRI is seeking to recruit an Economist to support CDRI-wide research programmes. The role includes identifying new strategic research opportunities, producing high-quality research publications, and participating in policy and other research discussion and dissemination activities. The role also requires him/her to explore and mobilise new research and partnership opportunities that align with CDRI Strategic Plan. This position is for twelve months and is renewable.

Key roles and responsibilities

– Conducts and lead thorough economic research and analysis on topics such as macroeconomics, labour economics, the economics of climate change, and green transition in Cambodia.
– Analyses economic data using advanced statistical and analytical software and tools and economics models to identify trends and patterns.
– Assesses the potential economic impact of proposed policies and regulations, identifying both potential risks and opportunities.
– Produces well-written, accurate, and timely research reports and analytics for policymakers and both internal and external stakeholders to support evidence-based decision-making.
– Contributes to or lead the design and implementation of various research outputs and publications, including policy briefs, working papers, research reports, blogs, and international journals.
– Identifies and mobilises new research opportunities and partnerships that align with and support CDRI Strategic Plan.
– Participates or leads in the delivery of internal and external research training and/or capacity building programmes to ensure ongoing learning and development of CDRI junior researchers.
– Participates in conferences, seminars, and workshops to disseminate research findings and contribute to policy discussions.

Experience and skills expected of the post holder

– A master’s degree (PhD preferred) in macroeconomics, environment/energy economics, or other related fields.
– Excellent research, written and oral communication skills in English and Khmer.
– Strong knowledge of economics, development challenges, and research network in the region.
– Proficiency in advanced statistical software and econometric modelling techniques.
– Experience working in the research institute, academics, international development institution, and/or government.
– A track record of research publication and proposal writing.
– Ability to work independently, lead and coordinate research programmes, and collaborate effectively with a diverse team.
– Highly motivated to learn new skills, optimistic, and passionate about problem-solving with applied knowledge.