Project on AI and Evidence (PAIE)

The Project on AI and Evidence (PAIE) is an initiative at J-PAL at MIT that identifies, evaluates, and scales innovative applications of AI for social good and in the fight against poverty, bringing together AI adopters, tech companies, and researchers. I joined J-PAL as Senior Advisor in July 2026 to work on this portfolio across research, policy, and practice.

PAIE funds rigorous research — largely randomized evaluations — on AI applications, builds practical guidance for evaluating AI-based programs, and develops capacity among researchers, governments, and NGOs. Focus sectors include education, health, labor markets, climate change, and financial inclusion.

Initiative: Project on AI and Evidence at J-PAL
Co-Chairs: Joshua Blumenstock · Iqbal Dhaliwal · David Yanagizawa-Drott
Funders: Community Jameel · Google.org · IDRC · UK International Development · AWS