About this opportunity
J-PAL's Project AI Evidence (PAIE) initiative is looking for scholars based in low- and middle-income countries who want to bring rigorous evaluation methods to the age of artificial intelligence. Scholars receive training in evaluating AI-enabled interventions and sit a PAIE-administered proctored assessment.
They also gain research mentorship and work alongside J-PAL staff on research, policy outreach and training. There is funding at the end of the road for those who clear it.
Scholars who pass the assessment and submit a revised concept note are considered for proposal-development and travel support, and then enter a separate competitive review for pilot funding.
What you receive
- Training in evaluating AI-enabled interventions
- A PAIE-administered proctored assessment
- Research mentorship
- Work with J-PAL staff on research, policy outreach and training
- Consideration for proposal-development and travel support for scholars who pass the assessment and submit a revised concept note
- Access to a separate competitive review for pilot research funding
Who can apply
- Resident scholars based in low- and middle-income countries in Asia and Africa as defined by the World Bank
- Must have completed a PhD in economics or another relevant empirical discipline
- Primary professional affiliation must be with a university in an eligible country
- A working concept note is submitted as part of the application
Documents to prepare
- A working research concept note
How to apply
- Open the initiative page at https://www.povertyactionlab.org/initiative/paie-scholars-program
- Select APPLY NOW and complete the application form
- Include your working concept note
- Submit by 16 October 2026 at 12 PM (ET)
Selection process
- Applications opened 17 September 2026 and close 16 October 2026 at 12 PM (ET)
- Scholars are selected in early November 2026
- Training begins in November 2026
Sources and verification
Questions applicants ask
Do I need a PhD?
Yes. Applicants must have completed a PhD in economics or another relevant empirical discipline.
Is funding guaranteed?
No. Pilot funding is a separate competitive review, and proposal-development and travel support follow a passed assessment and a revised concept note.
Important disclaimer
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