Working in the Development Sector

How economists work with NGOs, research organisations and international agencies to design and evaluate programmes that reduce poverty.

The development sector focuses on improving lives, especially of the poor. Economists play key roles.

Organisations

NGOs running programmes in education, health, livelihoods and more.
Research organisations like J-PAL South Asia and IDinsight, which evaluate programmes.
International organisations: the World Bank, UNDP, UNICEF, ILO and Asian Development Bank.
Foundations and CSR arms of companies.
Government partnerships.

Roles

Research associates running surveys and analysing data.
Monitoring and evaluation specialists measuring programme impact.
Programme managers designing and running initiatives.
Policy advisers.

Entry paths

Research assistant or associate roles after a bachelor’s or master’s.
Fellowships in government and NGOs.
International programmes such as the World Bank’s Young Professionals Program, usually requiring a PhD or master’s with experience.

Skills

Survey design and fieldwork.
Data analysis.
Local knowledge and languages.
Empathy and communication.

Impact

Work in the development sector can directly influence programmes affecting millions of people, such as the education and health studies that shaped government policies.

The field survey

A research associate travels to villages in Rajasthan to supervise a survey on girls' school attendance. The data helps evaluate whether a cash incentive programme is working.

Thinking development work is only charity

Development economics uses rigorous research to design and evaluate programmes.

Key takeaways

Economists work in NGOs, research organisations and international agencies.
Roles include research, monitoring and evaluation, and programme management.
Research assistant roles and fellowships are common entry paths.
Development work can shape programmes affecting millions.