Seeking a qualified individual to contribute to a research project evaluating the Bomi Social Cash Transfer Pilot in Liberia
Practicum Position Description
Dr. Candace Miller at the Boston University Center for Global Health & Development (CGHD) is seeking a qualified individual to contribute to a research project evaluating the Bomi Social Cash Transfer Pilot in Liberia. The position is for a current MPH or Doctoral student who would contribute to data analysis.
Background
The Bomi Social Cash Transfer Pilot is a social protection policy of the Government of Liberia designed to alleviate poverty, reduce hunger and malnutrition, and improve school enrolment among the poorest 10% of households in Bomi County. The Cash Transfer scheme was designed to deliver regular and reliable grants to “ultra poor” households, which are defined as those households that have minimal assets and income, high dependency ratios, and are labor constrained (i.e. there is no person aged 19-65 able to work).
The Evaluation of the Cash Transfer Pilot research activities to assess the following:
• The scheme’s impact on households & recipients (e.g. Poverty reduction, health, human development) and the local community and
• The Scheme’s Targeting approach to quantify inclusion and exclusion errors (Ineligible recipients and Eligible non-recipients)
These findings will inform future policymaking and the scaling up of the poverty reduction intervention. The Government of Liberia is particularly interested in robust and unbiased information on the impact of the scheme as it works to develop effective responses to poverty in a post-conflict society. In addition, governments throughout sub-Saharan Africa are interested in the results of the evaluation given the growing momentum around social protection policies.
Scope of Work
This position is Boston-based and requires quantitative, qualitative or both sets of skills and some prior experience in international health and development. The student must dedicate at least 20-25 hours per week on this study. This practicum offers student(s) international experience, practice in qualitative and/or quantitative data analysis, mentoring, and the opportunity to network with international development professionals in Boston and abroad. Additionally, there are opportunities for co-authorship on manuscripts. There may be several positions available depending upon experience. A paid position requires prior statistical experience.
TO APPLY:
Please submit a letter of interest, describing relevant experience and coursework, the names and contact info for three references and current CV to Candace Miller. Please include any prior experience in conducting statistical analyses. Application deadline: October 1 or until position is filled. Application process is competitive; interviews will be offered to the most promising candidates.
