At IFS, we recruit top-quality economists. We specialise in the economic analysis of public policy, bridging the gap between purely academic research and issues of practical policy design or evaluation. As a new recruit, you will carry out in-depth economic research and communicate your findings to politicians, journalists, academics and others such as campaigning groups and professional organisations.
We will support you in developing your skills, through further study and ad hoc training and by giving you opportunities to get involved with all aspects of research and communication right from the start.
If you join us with an undergraduate degree but no further degree - as many do - you will be encouraged to study part-time for a Masters degree in economics with financial support from the Institute. Your fees will be paid by IFS, and you will receive a mixture of paid and unpaid leave to attend classes and to study.
We welcome applications from:
- those expecting to graduate with an extremely good degree in economics;
- graduates with an extremely good degree in economics who are expecting to complete an MSc; or
- exceptional economists with some experience in research, in academia, public or private sectors.
Candidates who are studying for or have completed a PhD are also welcome to apply and will be considered for a Research Economist role. If you consider it relevant, please include information about your doctoral research in the on-line application form; you may include a link to a website where your papers are available.
IFS researchers have established a strong record in the analysis of public policies in the UK and elsewhere, including developing countries. Applicants should therefore have studied economics in considerable depth, and should be strongly motivated by an interest in economics and its practical application.
Research Economists are paid on a scale, £40,000 to £60,000. A new graduate with no previous experience can expect to start on £40,000; a candidate with a postgraduate degree would start at around £44,000.
Any offer of employment is subject to the eligibility to work in the UK. The role is eligible for a Skilled Worker visa, and the IFS will support the application for relevant candidates where needed.