Available Research Associate Positions
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Pre-Doctoral Research Associate
Apply: https://apply.interfolio.com/191110
The Department of Economics at Brown University invites applications for a one-year Pre-Doctoral Research Associate, with potential to continue on for a second year, contingent on performance and availability of funding. We are seeking to fill this position as soon as possible, with a start date no later than Summer 2027. The successful candidate will work closely with and be mentored by Professor Jesse Bruhn.
This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to research utilizing quasi-experimental and experimental methods to study the long-run economic well-being of young people. Current work spans the education system, early career experiences, and military service. Professor Bruhn’s work has been featured in leading academic journals and prominent outlets such as The Wall Street Journal and Congressional briefing documents.
Responsibilities:
- Clean, manage, and analyze large administrative and survey datasets
- Implement econometric analyses including causal inference methods (e.g., instrumental variables, regression discontinuity, difference-in-difference, event-studies)
- Produce tables, figures, and presentation materials for academic papers and policy reports
- Conduct literature reviews and contribute to research writing
- Assist with project management
This position is an excellent stepping stone for candidates considering graduate studies or research-focused careers in economics or related fields.
For this position, Brown offers only the J-1 visa classification to scholars who need immigration sponsorship in order to enter the U.S. and commence lawful employment under the terms of their appointment.
Qualifications:
We seek applicants with strong quantitative, programming, and data-analysis skills—ideally with backgrounds in economics, mathematics, statistics, computer science, and engineering—who are eager to pursue graduate research economics, particularly applied micro. A commitment to independent inquiry, intellectual curiosity, and teamwork is essential.
Application Instructions:
Applications should include a cover letter, CV, transcript, and contact information for two references. Candidates should address in their cover letter how they would contribute to the research and/or teaching missions of our diverse and inclusive university community. Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in economics, math, computer science, data science, engineering and a strong quantitative background and excellent computer programming skills is essential. Experience with administrative micro data is welcome. Familiarity with R, Python, Stata, MATLAB, and AI tools (e.g. Codex or Claude) is preferred.
As part of the hiring process, candidates will be expected to complete a task designed to test their familiarity with coding and econometrics.
Applications received by October 31 will receive priority consideration.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.