The opportunity to apply for the prestigious 2024 World Bank Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program is now available. This initiative by the World Bank connects budding researchers in the field of development economics from developing nations with the institution’s seasoned research economists. This collaboration affords the fellows an unparalleled chance to be involved in meaningful policy-driven research within the Development Economics Vice Presidency (DEC) of the World Bank. Selected fellows will spend 8 months in Washington, D.C., from September to May, working closely with the Development Impact Evaluation (DIME) and Development Research Group departments. Their involvement will focus on engaging in research that is both of high quality and relevant to current policy issues.
Participants in this program will benefit from the mentorship of World Bank DEC researchers and their academic partners from leading universities worldwide. This experience will not only enhance their understanding of contemporary research standards and econometric techniques but also expand their professional network. Fellows will gain insights into developmental issues and explore how their research can contribute to addressing these challenges in underdeveloped regions.
Key Aspects of the Program:
- Practical experience: Fellows will engage in World Bank projects, receiving guidance from DEC researchers. They will be introduced to advanced research methodologies and interact with the operations side of the World Bank. Their involvement might lead to contributions to DEC publications, co-authoring opportunities, participation in field missions, or direct interactions with clients of the World Bank.
- Skill development: The fellowship begins with a week-long technical orientation, emphasizing reproducible research methods. Throughout their stay, fellows will attend workshops and seminars led by eminent economists to refine their skills further. Their collaboration with DEC economists will enhance their capabilities in identifying and analyzing critical policy questions in development.
- Sharing of research: Fellows are encouraged to document their research findings in a blog for the DEC’s Let’s Talk Development platform, offering a stage to highlight their contributions to the discourse on development policies. The program annually selects the top four blogs for publication on this platform.
Compensation and Other Benefits: Each fellow will receive a competitive stipend of $46,500, free of income taxes, for the duration of the 8-month fellowship, disbursed in monthly payments. While based at the World Bank’s headquarters in Washington, D.C., assistance with the G4 visa application process will be provided. It should be noted, however, that travel expenses are not covered by the fellowship.
Background and Financial Support: The fellowship, established in 1982 through a resolution by the World Bank’s Executive Directors, aims to support young researchers in economic development fields. Initial funding came from various countries, showcasing a global commitment to fostering research talent.
For queries, potential applicants can reach out via [email protected].
Further Details and Application Process: The deadline for applications is set for February 28th, 2024, at 11:59pm ET.
Interested individuals are encouraged to visit the official webpage of the World Bank Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program for more information and to apply.