Pre-Doctoral Research Specialist

About the role

The Behavior Change for Good (BCFG) Initiative at the University of Pennsylvania, led by Professors Katherine Milkman and Angela Duckworth, conducts large‑scale field experiments to promote behavior change across multiple domains. This is a full‑time, limited‑term position intended for recent graduates seeking predoctoral research experience, with a duration of 2 years (June 2, 2027 – June 1, 2029) and no extension beyond the initial term. The position is based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with BCFG leadership on conducting behavior change interventions across various settings.
• Manage the initiative's communications efforts, including those of BCFG Co‑Directors Professors Katherine Milkman and Angela Duckworth.
• Manage and coordinate significant multi‑site research projects and communicate findings.
• Develop and implement research designs, conduct data analysis, prepare research reports.
• Prepare and disseminate communications of research results.
• Support research and communications within Angela Duckworth's lab.
• Handle administrative duties for the initiative.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with 1‑2 years of related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Background in Economics, Psychology, Behavioral Economics, or Behavioral Science preferred.

Skills

• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Experience with Microsoft Office suite.
• Experience with digital communication and design applications (e.g., Twitter, WordPress, Mailchimp, Canva).

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses (pre‑tax).
• Tuition assistance for employee, spouse, and dependent children at Penn and other institutions.
• Generous retirement plans (Basic, Matching, Supplemental) with pre‑tax or Roth options via TIAA and Vanguard.
• Substantial time away from work for vacation, personal affairs, illness, family time.
• Long‑term care insurance (Genworth Financial) with simplified underwriting for newly hired employees.
• Wellness and work‑life resources programs.
• Professional and personal development resources.
• Access to University libraries, athletic facilities, arboretum, art galleries, museums, theater, music, Penn Relays, etc., many free for employees and families.
• Discounts on arts, entertainment, transportation, mortgages, cars (Ford, GM), cellular plans, movie tickets, theme parks.
• Flexible work hours options.
• Penn Home Ownership Services (forgivable loan for home purchase/improvement in West Philadelphia).
• Adoption assistance (reimbursement for qualified expenses up to two adoptions).

Pay

Annual salary range: $50,000‑$60,000 plus benefits.

Pay range: $45,278.00 – $50,000.00 annual rate (based on qualifications, experience, skills, education, and market data).

Schedule

Full‑time, limited‑term position.