Mekong Development Research Institute (MDRI), in collaboration with the University of Copenhagen’s Development Economics Research Group (DERG), is conducting a study on reducing rice straw burning and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in Vietnam. The study employs a large-scale Randomized Control Trial that aims to pilot financial, informational, and market-based interventions to encourage rice farmers to reduce or eliminate rice straw burning, contributing to a broader transition toward a circular economy and net-zero emissions in agriculture production.
We are seeking a part-time Research Associate to join our team of international and domestic scholars/researchers to facilitate the study. As a Research Associate, you will directly take part in multiple aspects of the study such as:
- Contributing to designing survey and research tools (questionnaire, procedure, fieldwork manuals etc.) and conducting fieldwork as part of the study if needed.
- Processing and analysing quantitative data.
- Participating in developing and delivering project outputs under Lead Researcher’s supervision (findings of research analyses, project reports, workshops, webinars etc.).
- Other duties and actitivities assigned by the Lead Researcher.
At MDRI, we focus on being a collaborative, intellectual vibrant organization consisting of enthusiastic and highly motivated individuals who take pride in their work to help bring meaningful social impacts through policy making recommendations. We hire people with a broad set of skills and offer our staff an innovative learning environment with opportunities to make their own mark along the development journey of themselves and of the Institute. At MDRI, you will be guided to research and be a part of a team that delivers one of the best services in the industry and continues to find ways to make a difference through the Power of Knowledge.
Qualification requirements:
- A Vietnamese resident in the process of obtaining a Ph.D. in economics, social sciences, or a related field in Vietnam. The starting date of the Ph.D program is no later than 30 June, 2024 and the expected completion date should be from 01 September, 2027 to 31 December, 2028.
- Commitment to work on average 20 hours (2.5 full-time days) per week during the research period, from Q2 2025 to Q2 2028, depending on the actual workplan assigned by the Lead Researcher.
- Experience in conducting research in development economics, agriculture economics, environmental economics, or other related fields is preferred.
- Fluent in English with excellent writing and analytical skills.
- Strong capability to perform both independently and in a team.
- Proficient in using office sofware. Demonstrated knowledge of research tools, such as STATA, R, GIS, is a strong asset.
- Willingness to travel within Vietnam for work.
- Successful candidates are expected to start working as soon as possible.
Main compensation and benefit:
- Competitive compensation commensurate with the candidate’s expertise and agreed workload.
- Opportunity to collaborate with leading international and domestic scholars/researchers in the field.
- Engagement in impactful projects that promote sustainable and greener agricultural practices, with potential contributions to the candidate’s Ph.D. research.
Applications:
The application package should be in English and include:
- Short cover letter that includes a brief statement of the applicant’s suitability.
- Curriculum vitae (CV with and names of two referees who may be contacted to give their opinion on the candidate’s suitability for the position).
- A copy of Academic transcripts and Degree .
- A copy of publications (if available).
- Other relevant documents (academic certificate, IELTS results, etc.).
Interested qualified candidates are invited to send the application package to MDRI at recruitment@mdri.org.vn with “[Your Full Name] – Application for Part-time Research Associate” in the subject line of the email before 11th April 2025.
While we appreciate all responses, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interview.
Thank you for your interest.