The Tobin Project

Case Writer/Senior Case Writer

The Tobin Project is a non-profit, non-partisan research organization that catalyzes innovative scholarly work on understanding and solving major, real world problems, from rising economic inequality to threats to democracy and national security. Motivated by the conviction that the academy has a vital role to play in protecting and strengthening the health of our economy, democracy, and society, we mobilize an interdisciplinary network of 800 leading scholars to conduct path-breaking research and teaching toward understanding and solving some of the most pressing problems facing America and the world today. Tobin disseminates and leverages this research in the public arena to inform public discourse and decision making. Since our founding in 2005, Tobin’s inquiries have anticipated some of our nation’s greatest contemporary challenges, from the financial crisis to democratic erosion, and have consistently demonstrated the often-untapped potential of the academy in understanding and addressing these threats.

Drawing on the unparalleled content expertise of our scholar network, and based on the success of our initial, pilot investment, the Tobin Project has expanded our work to encompass the development of case-centered teaching materials. The “case-method”, a highly successful pedagogical method–used most widely in professional schools–focuses students on moments of contingency, and enables them to acquire knowledge, skills, and attitudes by wrestling with complex real-world problems animated by viewpoints from multiple sources. Teaching serves as both one of the academy’s primary and most powerful means of influencing society, and is a conduit for its continued engagement with problem-oriented research that advances the public good. Tobin is working to build the necessary capacity to develop significant numbers of new cases in the years ahead–first to expand on the “History of American Democracy” case collection–and subsequently to develop entirely new courses, starting with world history and economics.

About the Position:

The Tobin Project seeks an exceptional Case Writer to join our collaborative and entrepreneurial team. Tobin’s Case Writers work closely with leading scholars and the Director of Research to develop teaching cases and associated materials, translating academic research into pedagogical materials that strengthen teaching and learning in the social sciences and allied fields. Case-based pedagogy focuses students on consequential moments and decisions, and has proved highly effective in helping students master core course material and develop vital decision-making skills. The Case Writer will work as part of Tobin’s small, mission-driven staff, at first remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic, and then, as soon as public health conditions permit, on-site based at Tobin’s offices in the heart of Harvard Square.

Responsibilities:

• Work with scholars in Tobin’s network to conceptualize and outline new cases.
• Extensively research and document relevant information and scholarship.
• Write and revise cases in collaboration and conversation with external scholars and Tobin Project staff.
• Design supplementary materials, including teaching plans.
• Support Tobin’s efforts to expand access to teaching cases at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
• Contribute to the shaping Tobin’s case development strategy as a key element of the organization’s growth.

Qualifications:

A strong candidate for the Case Writer position is a talented individual who is intellectually ambitious and is passionate about using rigorous academic research to better understand the world and improve education. Familiarity with case-method teaching and case writing is welcome, but not essential. We are looking for enterprising writers who are comfortable with scholarship across the social sciences. Excellent writers and avid researchers, regardless of academic background, are encouraged to apply. Specifically, the Case Writer will possess the following attributes:

• Outstanding writing and communications skills, with the ability to write and present complex material in a clear and engaging way.
• Strong research and analytical skills, bolstered by experience in organizing and conducting qualitative research.
• Ability to creatively identify and convey compelling narratives.
• Curious and persistent in pursuing different fields of research.
• Ability to give and receive feedback, with a willingness to reflect and integrate feedback.
• Team player, capable of working independently, and able to contribute to a dynamic and nurturing environment.
• Advanced degree in history preferred, but not required; other social sciences disciplines will be considered.

How to Apply:

Qualified applicants should email the following materials to opportunities@tobinproject.org. Please note that applications submitted through H-NET are not guaranteed a review:

• A cover letter discussing your interest and qualifications
• A 1-2 page CV/résumé
• All academic transcripts (unofficial versions are acceptable)
• Two samples of written work

Please note that writing samples constitute a significant part of the decision-making process. Please submit two complete pieces of written work (not excerpts) – ideally one that marshals evidence in support of an argument. There are no page limits and no need to tailor the topic of discussion to Tobin’s research inquiries. Writing samples will be evaluated for clarity of reasoning, effectiveness of presentation, and style.

The Tobin Project is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are an inclusive community. We believe that engaging people from a wide variety of backgrounds enhances our work, and are always looking for people who can enrich our world with their own unique perspectives and experiences.