J-PAL Research Associate Interview Questions
& Process
Real candidates share what happened, how many rounds they had,
and how the experience turned out.
Based on 34 interview experiences · FREE TO READ
Candidate interview experiences
First-hand accounts from people who interviewed at J-PAL.
J-PAL
Research Associate
Entry Average Neutral experience No offer 2 rounds
Interview process
Recruiter call Phone screen
Interview formats
Behavioral Technical
The interview process went well. They inquired about my background in data collection, the full scope of projects I've worked on, and my specific contributions. I discussed my proficiency with SurveyCTO. We also covered randomized controlled trials (RCTs) – what they entail, their benefits, and why they're regarded as the optimal approach. Additionally, I was presented with behavioral and situational questions, such as how I'd manage challenges involving enumerators.
Confirmed questions1 question
- What's your approach to training enumerators prior to starting data collection?
J-PAL
Research Associate
Entry Average Positive experience Accept offer 2 rounds
Interview process
Technical screen Onsite Panel
Interview formats
Coding Technical Behavioral Presentation
The hiring process began with a technical assessment involving a coding test (using Stata or R) and a written examination focused on RCTs and evaluations. This stage evaluates both your technical proficiency and your ability to interact effectively with others. Candidates who pass this initial screening are then invited for an interview. I was interviewed by a panel of three individuals simultaneously. During this interview, they inquired about my background and my experience in data collection and analysis. Additionally, they presented me with several hypothetical scenarios related to fieldwork and asked for my proposed solutions. Success in this role is highly correlated with having strong technical skills and demonstrating a collaborative, team-oriented attitude. Performing well on the coding test provides a significant advantage.
Confirmed questions6 questions
- Tell me about a valuable skill you've acquired in Stata or R and how you've used it.
- Suppose you discovered that a field officer was faking survey responses; what steps would you take?
- Describe your background and experience concerning Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and evaluations.
J-PAL
Research Associate
Mid Average Positive experience Accept offer 2 rounds
Interview process
Take home Technical screen
Interview formats
Technical Coding
For the stats programming test, they ask if you want to do it in Stata or R. Then you pick a date and time for the exam. At that time, you get an email with a zipped file containing the exam and dataset, plus instructions. The time you have to finish it can differ depending on the PIs, research team, and how senior the tasks are for the role you applied for.
Confirmed questions5 questions
- Can you explain your approach to data manipulation?
- How do you handle data cleaning?
- What is your reasoning behind the chosen procedures?
J-PAL Research Associate Interview Questions
Quoted word for word from J-PAL interview reports.
“Can you show me some basic Stata codes for converting strings to floats?”
Read reports →“What are the advantages and disadvantages of using Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs)?”
Read reports →“Can you show me some basic Stata codes for performing a t-test?”
Read reports →“How would you calculate the necessary sample size for the nutrition scheme evaluation?”
Read reports →“What is the difference between piloting and the main survey?”
Read report →“What would be the appropriate randomization level for the nutrition scheme evaluation?”
Read report →“Could you explain the concepts of internal versus external validity?”
Read report →“Can you show me some basic Stata codes for merging data?”
Read report →“What key parameters would you consider when evaluating the nutrition scheme?”
Read report →Formats, difficulty and experience
Across all 34 J-PAL interview reports.