The Ecuadorian Development Research Lab (LIDE), in partnership with the U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Ecuador and DataCamp Donates, proudly launches the LIDE Young Researchers Fellowship. This fully funded program offers a unique opportunity to study quantitative research and the social sciences, with a focus on economics and public policy.

The fellowship is designed to prepare the next generation of social scientists by equipping them with essential research skills and fostering academic excellence. Our goal is to open pathways for talented and driven students from underserved communities to pursue graduate studies abroad, thereby promoting academic inclusion for disadvantaged communities.

The program is fully remote and runs for eight months, from May to December 2024. Through live training sessions and mentorship with experienced researchers, participants will develop key skills in social science research. At the same time, mentors and instructors will support each participant in producing a high-quality short research paper that may strengthen applications to international graduate programs.

The program will be bilingual (English and Spanish). Study materials for the TOEFL exam will be provided, and LIDE will cover the cost of the exam when the student decides to take it. To foster programming skills applied to research, students will also receive free access to DataCamp, as part of our partnership with DataCamp Donates.

Program contents

Quantitative research

Learn the theory and practice of key methods for conducting quantitative research in the social sciences. This includes modules on data analysis software such as R and Stata, as well as statistical techniques, causal inference, field research, and public policy analysis.

Academic writing

Academic writing is essential for effectively communicating ideas and findings in the social sciences. The program will cover how to write academic papers, use citation styles, and manage bibliographies with specialized software. Learning will be hands-on: students will develop a high-level research paper with support from mentors who have international academic experience.

International graduate admissions

Admission to international graduate programs is highly competitive. The Young Researchers Fellowship will help students strengthen their applications through workshops on academic CVs, statements of purpose, application timelines, and strategies for securing funding. In addition, LIDE will cover the cost of the TOEFL exam for selected applicants.

Research dissemination

Communicating research findings in outreach journals and academic conferences is a vital skill for any successful researcher. This component will focus on both technical and soft skills for presenting research results, including data visualization, oral presentations, collaboration, and teamwork.

How to apply

1. Fill out the application form and submit all required documents by May 1, 2024. Application materials include academic transcripts, a CV, a recommendation letter, and a personal statement.
2. Pre-selected candidates will be invited to take a competency exam in mid-May.
3. Top-performing candidates will be interviewed via Zoom. Final results will be announced by the end of May.
4. Synchronous classes will begin in early June 2024.

Student profile

This program is designed for young individuals who meet the following criteria:

• Have earned an undergraduate degree from an Ecuadorian university within the past four years, or are currently enrolled in an undergraduate program at an Ecuadorian institution.
• Demonstrate a strong interest in pursuing graduate studies in the social sciences. (Applicants must not already hold a master’s or doctoral degree.)
• Have at least a basic level of English proficiency.
• Belong to a household with a monthly income below the national average.
• Exhibit strong academic performance, as reflected in their academic record.

We are deeply committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. We actively encourage applications from women and individuals from underrepresented or historically marginalized communities, including Black and Indigenous populations, people with disabilities, and members of the LGBT+ community.