Background:
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is performing multiple analyses of migration drivers in Central America with a particular focus in Guatemala. This assessment requires a comprehensive and multidimensional approach as migration decisions are generally influenced by several socioeconomic and climatic factors, which are often interrelated, vary over time, and often reinforce one another. These drivers not only include factors at the micro level but also factors at the meso and macro level. Part of this work requires calibrating a theoretical model for empirical testing and simulation analyses to assess the role of climatic factors and the role of distortions in agricultural activities on emigration decisions in Guatemala. IFPRI seeks a Consultant for a 3-month appointment in its Markets, Trade and Institutions Unit, between June and August 2024, to perform these assessments. The Consultant will perform project activities related to literature review; data processing and model calibration; simulations and statistical analysis; and report drafting. The position is based remotely and may require travel to Guatemala or IFPRI headquarters in Washington, DC.
Scope of work:
- Perform literature and document reviews.
- Perform data compilation and processing.
- Perform model calibration and simulation analysis.
- Perform statistical and economic analysis with input from IFPRI team as needed.
- Deliver two draft reports on the analysis to be performed on the role of climatic events and the role of distortions of agricultural activities on migration.
Required Qualifications:
- Masterโs degree and/or advanced PhD studies in Economics or closely related field.
- Excellent skills in structural economic modeling, calibration, and simulations.
- Excellent econometric and statistical skills.
- Sound knowledge of Matlab and Julia.
- Experience with quantitative research methods and analysis of aggregate and micro data.
- Excellent writing and analytical skills.
- Fluency in written and spoken English.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, along with the ability to work independently and with initiative, and with colleagues from diverse cultures.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Fluency in written and spoken Spanish.
- Sound knowledge of macro and microeconomics.
- Knowledge of STATA.
- Research experience in Central America on development and migration issues.
Application Deadline: May 24, 2024