Jobs at JRCPPF
JRCPPF invites applications for positions to start in Summer 2026 for the following academic year. We are seeking to hire multiple pre-doctoral research specialists and a post-doctoral research associate.
Open Positions
- Pre-Doctoral Research Assistant Position
Predoctoral Research Specialist (full-time)
Department: SPIA-Julis-Rabinowitz Center for Public Policy & Finance
Start Date: Summer 2026
Application deadline: January 31, 2026Based in Princeton’s School of Public & International Affairs and under the direction of , the (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 students interested in economics or finance, who plan to pursue doctoral studies within two years. Previous research specialists have been accepted to top Ph.D. programs, including Stanford, Princeton, Harvard, Yale, MIT, Northwestern, Duke, London School of Economics, Columbia, NYU, Barcelona GSE, and the University of Maryland.
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 University’s vibrant academic life through attending seminars, classes, and interacting with students and fellows at the Center.
RESPONSIBILITIES
ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Important Application Information
Candidates should upload the following as a SINGLE PDF:
(Upload to the “Other Documents” field in the online application.)Princeton University is an and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. .
- Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis; therefore, we encourage applicants to submit their applications early. All interested applicants who will have earned a college degree by June 2026 are encouraged to apply.
- Selected candidates will be required to successfully pass a background check.
- Short-listed applicants will be contacted for an interview and may be asked to complete a coding exercise.
- This is a term position renewable after the first year. Successful applicants will start in summer 2026 (start date flexible). We strongly prefer candidates who are willing to commit for a period of two years. The position is based in Princeton, NJ, and will be an in-person role.
- The research specialist will report directly to the faculty supervisor and the JRCPPF associate director.
- Knowledge of STATA, R, Python, Julia, and/or MATLAB
- Familiarity with machine learning methods and algorithmic modeling for large datasets
- Experience with LaTeX, Unix/Linux
- Evidence of outstanding academic achievement
- Familiarity with standard economic and financial data sources, Internet tools, and HTML
- 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.
- Clean, synthesize, and analyze data. Produce empirical analysis and more sophisticated statistical models (i.e. machine learning, neural nets, LLMs).
- Prepare results and design figures for reports and presentations.
- Manage and manipulate data using requested languages, including 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 regarding the progression of the research projects and methodologies.
- Cover letter and resume
- List of three references
- Transcripts from all previous academic programs
- A research paper in economics or finance (e.g., thesis, course paper, etc.)
- Sample of code (ideally for the same paper)
- Post-Doctoral Research Associate Position
Postdoctoral Research Associate
Department: SPIA-Julis-Rabinowitz Center for Public Policy & Finance
Appointment for Academic Year 2026 - 2027
Target Start Date: Summer 2026 (no later than September 1, 2026)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 researcher, or more senior research position. The anticipated start date is the summer of 2026.
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 collaboration with Princeton faculty, graduate students, and undergraduate students. There are no teaching obligations.
Applicants must have received a Ph.D., preferably within the last 2 years (or expected by September 2026). 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 at 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. This position is in-person and 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.