Job Title: Senior Research Specialist I (full-time)
Department: SPIA-Julis-Rabinowitz Center for Public Policy & Finance
Start Date: Summer 2025
Application deadline: January 31, 2025
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Based in Princeton’s School of Public & International Affairs and under the direction of Prof. Atif Mian, the Julis-Rabinowitz Center for Public Policy & Finance (JRCPPF) promotes research and teaching at the intersection of finance, macroeconomics, and policy. We seek to hire talented and motivated predoctoral research specialists to assist multiple economics and finance faculty working with the center. This position is ideal for graduating seniors or master’s degree students interested in economics or finance, who have plans for doctoral studies in two years. Previous research specialists have been accepted to top Ph.D. programs including at Stanford, Princeton, Harvard, Yale, MIT, Northwestern, London School of Economics, Columbia, NYU, Barcelona GSE, and U. of Maryland.

This is a term position renewable after the first year. Successful applicants will start in the summer of 2025 (start date flexible). We strongly prefer candidates willing to commit for two years. The position is based in Princeton, NJ, and will be in person. The research specialist will report directly to the faculty and the JRCPPF associate director.

PRIMARY DUTIES

• Clean, synthesize, and analyze data. Produce empirical analysis and more sophisticated statistical models. Prepare results and design figures for reports and presentations. Could also involve theoretical work such as coding of model simulations.
• Develop and maintain expertise in new research methodologies and techniques. Manage and manipulate data using requested languages, including, for example, Python, R, MATLAB, and STATA.
• Collaborate successfully with faculty, students, and other RAs at Princeton as well as external co-authors.
• Independently manage all timelines and deliverables. Exercise independent decision-making on the progression and methodologies.
• Other duties may be assigned.

The ideal candidate will: (i) have a strong quantitative background; (ii) have significant experience with coding and computing; (iii) be able to work independently to solve problems; and (iv) have a long-term interest in economics or finance research. A background in economics or finance is a plus, but not necessary—we welcome candidates with strong technical backgrounds who are looking for more exposure to economics. The position is structured to help individuals prepare for doctoral programs in economics by gaining valuable research experience. In addition to working closely with Center faculty, senior research specialists have opportunities to participate in Princeton’s vibrant academic life of Princeton University through attending seminars, attending classes, and interacting with students and fellows at the Center.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS

• BA/BS in economics, mathematics, or computer science, or in a related field (e.g., public policy, with significant coursework in economics, mathematics, statistics and/or programming)
• Experience with statistical programming in STATA, Python, or R
• Demonstrated interest in empirical social science
• Excellent analytical, empirical, and writing skills, demonstrated through independent work (e.g. course paper, undergraduate thesis, or independent research)
• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and flexibly adapt to changes in priorities; experience working both independently and as a team member; willingness to take initiative and follow projects through to completion.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge of STATA, R, Python, Julia, and/or Matlab
• Experience with LaTex, Unix/Linux
• Evidence of outstanding academic achievement
• Familiarity with standard economic and financial data sources, Internet tools, and HTMLols, and HTML is desirable

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and as such we encourage applicants to apply early! Short-listed applicants will be contacted for an interview and may be asked to complete a coding exercise. Selected candidates will be required to successfully pass a background check.

Candidates should upload the following as a SINGLE PDF:
(Upload to the “Other Documents” field in the online application.)

1. Cover letter and resume
2. List of three references
3. Transcripts from all previous academic programs
4. A research paper in economics or finance (e.g. thesis, course paper, etc.)
5. Sample of code (ideally for same paper)

All interested candidates are encouraged to apply. At Princeton’s School of Public and International Affairs, we believe that it is vital to cultivate an environment that embraces and promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion—fundamental to the success of our education and research mission. This commitment to diversity informs our efforts in recruitment and hiring as we actively seek colleagues of exceptional ability who represent a broad range of viewpoints, experiences, and value systems, and who share Princeton University’s dedication to excellence.

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Job Title: Postdoctoral Research Associate
Department: SPIA-Julis-Rabinowitz Center for Public Policy & Finance
Appointment for Academic Year 2025 - 2026
Target Start Date: Summer 2025 (no later than September 1, 2025)
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The Julis-Rabinowitz Center for Public Policy and Finance (JRCPPF) at the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs seeks candidates for a postdoctoral research associate, or more senior research position. The anticipated start date is the summer of 2025. 

The primary criteria are the quality of the applicant’s research on the linkages between finance and macroeconomics broadly. The candidate’s work may use empirical or theoretical methods to address important policy questions. The position provides an outstanding opportunity for independent research as well as opportunities for collaboration with Princeton faculty, and graduate and undergraduate students. There are no teaching obligations. 

Postdoctoral Research or more senior research associates are expected to participate actively in the intellectual activities of Princeton University. Applicants must have received a Ph.D., preferably within the last 2 years (or expected by September 2025. The Term of appointment is based on rank. Positions at the postdoctoral rank are for one year with the possibility of renewal pending satisfactory performance and continued funding; those hired at more senior ranks may have multi-year appointments.

Applicants must apply online and submit a cover letter, C.V., one or at most two research papers, and three reference letters. This position is subject to the University’s background check policy.  The work location for this position is in-person on campus at Princeton University.

The Princeton School of Public and International Affairs is especially interested in candidates who, through their research, teaching, and service, will contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community. We actively seek colleagues of exceptional ability who represent a broad range of viewpoints, experience, and value systems and who share Princeton University’s dedication to excellence and service.