Dalberg Research Fellow: A Deep Dive into a Global Development Opportunity
The world of global development is constantly seeking sharp minds to tackle complex challenges. Dalberg Advisors, a firm known for its work at the intersection of strategy, evidence, and systems change, offers a unique 12-month fellowship for those looking to make a significant impact. This Dalberg Research Fellow position, primarily based in India with flexible remote or hybrid options, is designed for experienced researchers and policy professionals aiming to shape future global development agendas. It’s an opportunity to contribute to a new research engine focused on critical issues like climate finance, gender equity, and artificial intelligence in development.
About Dalberg and Its Global Mission
Dalberg Advisors is part of the larger Dalberg Group, an organization with a worldwide presence and a commitment to fostering a more inclusive and sustainable planet. With offices in numerous locations and experience spanning over 135 countries, Dalberg combines strategic advice with thorough research and data analysis. They also bring deep local knowledge and encourage cross-sector collaboration among governments, non-governmental organizations, and private companies. Dalberg’s work touches on strategy and policy design, evidence-based research for development, transforming systems, and innovation, all within the global impact consulting space. Their focus areas include education, gender equality, climate change, digital infrastructure, and economic justice.
The Research & Thought Leadership Initiative
The Research Fellow will be a key part of a new initiative at Dalberg, modeled after an observatory. This initiative aims to produce forward-thinking research that influences discussions on global development. The research will explore emerging areas such as new ways of funding outcomes and philanthropic capital, measuring systems change and collective impact, gender equity issues (including boys’ education), the use of artificial intelligence in education, work, and public services, and the future of development financing and global policy. The goal is to create high-quality research publications and thought leadership that can guide policymakers, donors, and international organizations.
Key Objectives for the Research Fellow
The Research Fellow will play an important role in developing and carrying out Dalberg’s research plans. This includes leading or assisting with original research on global development topics, contributing to quarterly publications, and turning internal consulting knowledge into global thought leadership. The fellow will also develop research products and analytical tools that are relevant to policy. Additionally, they will support experimental research designs and foresight analysis. The main areas of focus will be global development funding, measuring systems change, education equity, and the application of AI in various sectors.
Key Responsibilities of the Role
The Research Fellow will undertake a variety of analytical and strategic tasks. This includes conducting structured desk research and literature reviews, performing both qualitative and quantitative analysis, and building comparative case studies from different regions and sectors. Synthesizing and interpreting data will also be a part of the role.
In terms of writing and publication, the fellow will draft research briefs, memos, blogs, and analytical papers. They will also develop thought leadership content for both internal and external audiences and contribute to regular research outputs.
Data visualization and insight generation involve supporting the creation of data visualization products, translating complex data into understandable insights, and helping to produce research presentations and reports.
Stakeholder engagement and collaboration will require working with internal Dalberg teams globally, supporting research partnerships, and assisting in the design of events and discussions on important topics.
Finally, institutional development involves contributing to the structure of the research initiative, supporting its operational design and strategic development, and helping to define its long-term research direction.
Desired Qualifications and Experience
Dalberg seeks candidates with a strong combination of analytical skills, research experience, and a curious mind. A Master’s degree is preferred in fields like Public Policy, International Affairs, Sociology, Public Health, or Data Journalism. Candidates should have 4 to 8 years of experience in global development, research, or public policy.
Essential technical skills include strong writing, synthesis, and communication abilities, with the capacity to explain complex ideas clearly. Experience with at least one statistical tool such as Python, R, Stata, or SPSS is required. Familiarity with GIS mapping tools or qualitative analysis software is a plus.
Professional experience in think tanks, research institutes, or policy organizations is valued. Understanding development finance or global policy systems is beneficial, as is experience in consulting or advisory roles. Personal attributes like strong intellectual curiosity, independent thinking, and the ability to produce high-quality work quickly in evolving environments are important. A self-motivated and impact-driven mindset is also key.
What This Fellowship Offers
The Dalberg Research Fellow position is designed to be both a professional development opportunity and a potential long-term career path. Fellows can expect to publish impactful global development research, receive mentorship from senior experts, and gain exposure to international policy environments. They will also have access to high-level development networks and play a role in shaping a new research institution within Dalberg. There is a possibility of transitioning into a long-term leadership role in a high-trust environment that encourages innovation and intellectual freedom. This fellowship is ideal for professionals aiming for high-level research leadership, policy advisory roles, or global development strategy positions.
Application Timeline
Applications for the Dalberg Research Fellow position are accepted on a rolling basis. The preferred start date is from June 2026, with the fellowship lasting for 12 months on a full-time basis. While the primary location is India, remote and hybrid working options are available. Early applications are encouraged due to limited placement capacity and ongoing review processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Dalberg Research Fellow position?
It’s a 12-month fellowship at Dalberg Advisors focused on producing research to influence global development agendas, particularly in areas like climate finance, gender equity, and AI.
Where is the fellowship located?
The primary location is India, but flexible remote or hybrid options are available.
What kind of research will the fellow conduct?
The research will cover emerging areas such as new funding models, measuring systems change, gender equity issues, AI in development, and the future of development financing.
What qualifications are needed for this fellowship?
A Master’s degree in a related field, 4-8 years of experience in global development or policy, and strong analytical and writing skills, including experience with statistical tools, are preferred.
