Application Guide

How to Apply for Research Fellow – Harvard CID (Prof. Asim Khwaja)

at Harvard Center for International Development (CID)

🏢 About Harvard Center for International Development (CID)

The Harvard Center for International Development (CID) is Harvard University's premier hub for cutting-edge international development research, uniquely positioned at the intersection of academia and real-world policy impact. As part of Harvard Kennedy School, CID offers unparalleled access to global development networks and the opportunity to work with leading scholars like Professor Asim Khwaja on transformative education initiatives like GEAR:UP, which uses big data and AI to address systemic learning challenges worldwide.

About This Role

This Research Fellow position involves conducting rigorous research on education system transformation within the GEAR:UP initiative, specifically focusing on using big data and AI to create personalized learning journeys at scale. The role contributes directly to addressing the global learning crisis by developing evidence-based solutions that can improve educational outcomes for millions of students in diverse classroom settings.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve analyzing education datasets to identify patterns in learning outcomes, collaborating with interdisciplinary team members on research design for GEAR:UP projects, and participating in CID seminars or workshops. The role balances independent research work with regular meetings to align with Professor Khwaja's research agenda and contribute to the initiative's broader goals.

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🎯 Who Harvard Center for International Development (CID) Is Looking For

  • Strong quantitative research background with experience in education economics, development economics, or related fields
  • Proficiency in data analysis tools (R, Stata, Python) and experience working with large datasets relevant to education systems
  • Demonstrated interest in international development and education policy, particularly in low- and middle-income countries
  • Ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams while also conducting independent research under Professor Khwaja's guidance

📝 Tips for Applying to Harvard Center for International Development (CID)

1

Explicitly connect your research experience to GEAR:UP's focus on using big data/AI for personalized learning at scale

2

Highlight any experience with education systems research in developing country contexts

3

Demonstrate familiarity with Professor Asim Khwaja's research portfolio on development economics and education

4

Show how your methodological skills align with CID's systems approach to development challenges

5

Address the specific time commitment (one year starting June-August 2026) and your availability for that period

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your specific interest in GEAR:UP's mission to transform education systems using data-driven approaches", 'How your research background addresses the challenge of stagnant learning levels despite increased enrollment', 'Your ability to contribute to interdisciplinary work at the intersection of education, technology, and development', 'Why working with Professor Khwaja and CID specifically aligns with your research and career goals']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Professor Asim Khwaja's recent publications on development economics and education
  • → GEAR:UP initiative's specific projects and research outputs to date
  • → CID's broader research portfolio and how education fits within their development focus
  • → Harvard Kennedy School's approach to bridging research and policy in international development

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Your experience with education data analysis and research methods relevant to studying learning outcomes
2 How you would approach researching personalized learning solutions for diverse classroom settings
3 Your understanding of the systemic challenges in global education that GEAR:UP aims to address
4 Specific ideas for research projects within the initiative's focus areas
5 Your experience working in collaborative research environments like academic centers
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Generic applications that don't reference GEAR:UP or Professor Khwaja's specific research interests
  • Focusing only on education research without connecting to international development contexts
  • Failing to demonstrate quantitative research skills relevant to big data analysis in education

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Harvard Center for International Development (CID)!

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