We recruit every year and aim to appoint between 2 and 5 new research economists. Applications are open from October, and the deadline will be towards the end of January.

Successful applicants to a Research Economist position will have gained or be expected to gain at least a very good 2.1 on an economics-related undergraduate degree course, or have or expect to have a relevant master's degree. Candidates with work experience in the public or private sector and those who have or expect to have a strong PhD, who are interested in doing general microeconomic research may also apply. Many staff have previous computing, econometric or theoretical skills; these are not essential, though reasonable numeracy and the willingness to learn are. You will be expected to be able and willing to present your work to a range of audiences, including the academic and broad public policy communities. This may include addressing conferences and seminars, writing for newspapers, and appearing on radio or television. Relevant training, for instance in broadcasting skills, will be provided.

Shortlisting will be completed in February; interviews will take place shortly afterwards. In compiling our shortlist we look particularly for excellent academic results and for an interest in and understanding of how economic theory can be used to improve public policy.

Each candidate will normally be asked to attend two consecutive interviews on the same day, where the discussion will focus on applying economic theory to policy-relevant questions. Short-listed candidates will be asked to prepare a short written answer (no more than a page of A4) to a set question, which will provide the initial basis for discussion for those selected for interview. Candidates will be asked to use economics to analyse a topical policy question, such as the impact of tax changes or government policies on education. Up to a further five topics will then be covered, each focussing on a different aspect of the Institute's research. We select candidates based on the potential we believe they have to think in an intelligent way about economics and its application to policy questions. We expect to be able to make job offers during the week following the interviews.

Applicants from outside the EU may apply, but any offer of a post would be subject to IFS successfully obtaining a work permit from the UK government as might also be the case for nationals of some EU countries.