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Job Description
About GiveWell
GiveWell is a research organization dedicated to identifying and funding cost-effective giving opportunities that improve global health and well-being. Operating with tens of thousands of donors who rely on our research, GiveWell has grown exponentially—from directing $1.5 million in 2010 to over $400 million in 2025. Our work focuses on maximizing impact in the lowest-income communities worldwide.
The Role
As a Research Analyst on GiveWell's Commons team, you will support our research operations in identifying cost-effective giving opportunities. Your work will directly influence how hundreds of millions of dollars are allocated to save and improve lives in the world's lowest-income communities. You'll play a key role in maintaining our commitment to transparency and ensuring accuracy and quality across all outputs.
Key Responsibilities
- Quality checking published pages and decision-making spreadsheets for accuracy and clarity
- Writing public summaries explaining the reasoning behind grant decisions
- Conducting desk research to answer defined research questions (e.g., agricultural market access, healthcare commodity availability in developing regions)
- Summarizing monitoring and evaluation reports from grantees
- Updating cost-effectiveness analyses with new information and research findings
- Exploring AI tools to improve team efficiency and work quality
- Providing project management support as needed
What You Should Know
This is an entry-level research position focused on rigorous vetting work and well-defined research tasks. During your first year, you'll primarily conduct quality assurance on outputs from senior research team members rather than drive strategic decisions or lead major initiatives. Your projects will be assigned by senior researchers and program officers based on team needs, though you'll have opportunities to contribute ideas and participate in scoping discussions.
This role requires a generalist mindset—you'll develop deep analytical skills by contributing across multiple grantmaking areas rather than specializing in a single focus. You'll gain exceptional research fundamentals and exposure to global development impact work.
Ideal Candidate Profile
You excel at systematic analysis, attention to detail, and communicating complex findings clearly. Strong research skills, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to accuracy are essential. Experience with data analysis, spreadsheet work, or research methodology is valuable.