The National Laboratory of Public Policy (LNPP) is hiring two research assistants for its simulation unit (USim). The simulation unit is dedicated to the development and active use of simulation models for the analysis, evaluation and improvement of public policies. The goal is to develop models that are as close as possible to the context of the study and allow us to analyse effects of public policies ex-ante. The unit specialises in agent-based modelling but is open to other techniques depending on the research question. The simulation unit closely collaborates with the data science unit and the unit for innovation, experiments and behaviour at the LNPP.

The simulation unit has two main objectives. First, we develop models to analyse economic and social phenomena allowing us to contribute to the scientific discussion through publications. The second goal is to develop models that are adapted to the context in order to inform policy makers about possible effects of public policies in the specific context of the analysis.

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Responsibilities**
The research assistants will be part of the new simulation unit of the LNPP. The USim was founded in May 2017 in order to reinforce the simulation activities within the LNPP. In first time the main task will be to establish the unit and to initiate new projects. The research assistants will have three key responsibilities. First, they assist the head of the unit with the scientific development of simulation models (60-70%). The specific tasks include the development (concept and coding) of models and the presentation of results. Additional tasks include assistance in teaching activities of the unit (20-30%) and administrative support to the unit (10%).
The two positions are particularly well suited for graduates looking for labour market experience in applied research prior to continuing their post-graduate studies (Masters or PhD).

Contract and salary
The LNPP offers annual contracts under the Mexican tax scheme of honorarios (contractor). Salaries are competitive and the possibility of additional income through projects exists.
The LNPP is characterised by a very nice work environment with a lot of flexibility. The team is young and innovating both in the research methods and labour conditions. The assistants will work at the LNPP in Mexico City, Santa Fe neighbourhood.

Profile
Requirements:
- Senior: Master degree or undergraduate degree plus 2 years of experience in a similar position in any area of social science. Candidates from other sciences will also be considered if they show a genuine interest in problems of social science.
- Junior: Undergraduate degree in any area of social science. Candidates from other sciences will also be considered if they show a genuine interest in problems of social science.
- Programming skills, preferably in Java
- Spanish and English (oral and written), other languages are an advantage.
- Interest in social issues and the analysis of public policies.
- Good handling of the computer in general

Advantages
- Knowledge/experience in agent-based models
- Experience with RePast, Matsim or any other agent-based simulation package
- Experience with LaTeX
- Experience in applied research of public policy

Dates
Closing of job offer June 16, 2017
Interviews June 26 to 30, 2017
Start of collaboration August or upon mutual agreement

Information and contact
Dr. Florian Chávez Juárez, Laboratorio Nacional de Políticas Públicas. florian.chavez@cide.edu or +52 (55) 5727 9800 Ext. 2468

How to apply
Please send your application by e-mail to florian.chavez@cide.edu. The application should include your CV (in pdf) and a letter of motivation (English or Spanish, pdf format) in which you outline why you are the perfect candidate for the position.