University of Cambridge
Research Associate, El-Erian Institute for Behavioural Economics and Public Policy (Fixed Term)

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Job Opportunity: Research Associate
Are you a passionate behavioural scientist eager to make a real-world impact? Do you want to conduct cutting-edge research at one of the world's most celebrated universities? If so, this is an opportunity not to be missed.
About the Opportunity
Cambridge Judge Business School is seeking a talented and motivated Research Associate to join the El-Erian Institute for Behavioural Economics and Public Policy. Situated at the heart of the Cambridge Cluster, Europe's most successful technology entrepreneurship hub, the Institute brings together world-class minds to explore the frontiers of behavioural science, economics, and public policy. Led by its inaugural Director, the El-Erian Professor of Behavioural Economics and Public Policy, the Institute is a vibrant, collaborative community of around ten core researchers, united by a shared ambition to generate knowledge that truly matters.
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I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Key Responsibilities
- Be at the forefront of interdisciplinary research, contributing to the full research lifecycle, from study design and data collection through to analysis, interpretation, and publication in leading international journals.
- Shape your own research portfolio.
- Engage with policymakers and external stakeholders.
- Support the next generation of researchers.
- Contribute to funding applications that drive the Institute's ambitious agenda forward.
Requirements
- A PhD in social psychology, behavioural economics, or a closely related discipline.
- Strong expertise in experimental and quantitative methods, including proficiency in Python and Bayesian analytical approaches.
- A track record of high-quality, impactful research publications that demonstrate a meaningful contribution to the field.
- Experience of policy engagement.
- Ability to collaborate across diverse teams.
- Familiarity with AI and LLM-based research methods is a welcome addition.


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Details
- This is a two-year fixed-term appointment.
- Based at Trumpington Street, Cambridge, with hybrid working available.
- Full-time role with a start date of 18 January 2027.
- Interviews are planned for the week commencing 24 August 2026.
How to Apply
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Contact
Informal queries may be directed to hrsupport@jbs.cam.ac.uk.
Please quote reference NS50509 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
Equality and Inclusion
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
Eligibility
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
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