Predoctoral research program

PDRI-DevLab Predoctoral Research Program

Launched in 2022, the PDRI-DevLab predoctoral research program supports outstanding young scholars from low- and middle-income countries with interests in international development and potential for success in an academic career in the social sciences.

The program provides exceptional young scholars with an opportunity to work at Penn as full-time staff. Selected candidates work with leading faculty on a variety of international development research projects, invest in their technical research skills, enroll in classes, and become part of the international development research community at Penn.

While at Penn, predocs receive ongoing mentorship from Penn faculty, including advice and support on PhD applications. We expect individuals to work in this role for 1-2 years, before starting PhD level studies in the social sciences, or moving into applied social science careers.

Current Predoctoral Fellows

Takondwa (TK) Moyo
Takondwa has a Master of Science in Policy Economics from the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, and a Bachelor of Science from Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources. TK is primarily supporting research projects on conservation and human trafficking.