Applications are invited from students looking for placements during the summer of 2012.

IFS offers several placements each summer to economics students who are interested in how microeconomics can be applied to public policy issues and are considering a career in economic research.

Placements are intended to give a taste of research work at the IFS similar to that done by newly recruited permanent research staff. As such the work is most likely to be appropriate for individuals currently studying for undergraduate or masters degrees, rather than more advanced students. During a six week placement a summer student might typically expect to work for an IFS research team on tasks such as reviewing existing literature, preparing and analysing data, and writing up research results.

We welcome applications from those in their penultimate or final year of an undergraduate degree with a strong economics component and from those who are currently studying for a Masters degree in economics. Suitable candidates will be selected on the basis of a short interview, which will take place at our offices in central London. (UK travel expenses only will be refunded).

Undergraduates should be expecting to obtain a first class degree. They should have a strong grasp of basic economic concepts, as well as the ability to apply these to practical policy issues. Much of IFS research involves the analysis of data, and applicants are therefore expected to have a high degree of numeracy. However, please note that familiarity with specific mathematical and statistical techniques and computer packages used in applied economics is not a pre-requisite.

Overseas students may be appointed subject to being eligible to work in the UK. However, no additional funds are provided to help with travel to the UK or subsistence and the IFS cannot help with any accommodation requirements.

Applicants should complete and submit the on-line application form. CVs will not be accepted.