The Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL) MENA Scholars Fellowship creates a pathway for regional researchers to build rigorous evaluation skills. Specifically, this program trains scholars to design and conduct randomized evaluations of poverty reduction programs. Consequently, fellows contribute directly to evidence-based social development policies in the Middle East and North Africa.
Program Overview
This is a two-year academic and research fellowship. Therefore, it combines formal training with hands-on work alongside J-PAL affiliates. By joining, scholars build their own evaluation designs with guidance from world-class economists.
Key Benefits
Fellows receive financial stipends and unparalleled academic mentorship. Specifically, the benefits include:
- Stipend: A $15,000 stipend over the two-year period.
- Education: Enrollment in MIT MicroMasters courses in randomized evaluation.
- Networking: Integration into the global J-PAL research network.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, an applicant must be a researcher affiliated with a MENA institution or pursuing a relevant PhD. Crucially, you must have a high level of proficiency in both Arabic and English.
- Background: Economics, public policy, statistics, or related disciplines.
- Skills: Proficiency in Stata or R is highly recommended.
- Focus: Deep interest in poverty alleviation and randomized evaluations.
Application Process
- Deadline: March 26, 2026.
- Submission: Apply via the J-PAL online portal.
- Requirements: Resume, cover letter, and proof of academic affiliation.
