Cambridge Judge Entrepreneurship Centre
Research Associate, El-Erian Institute for Behavioural Economics and Public Policy (Fixed Term)

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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.
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.
In this role, you will 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. You will have the opportunity to shape your own research portfolio, engage with policymakers and external stakeholders, support the next generation of researchers, and contribute to funding applications that drive the Institute's ambitious agenda forward. This is not simply a research post, it is a platform from which to build a distinguished academic career.
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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.
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We are looking for someone who combines intellectual curiosity with rigorous analytical capability. You will hold a PhD in social psychology, behavioural economics, or a closely related discipline, and bring 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, and the ability to collaborate across diverse teams will set you apart. Familiarity with AI and LLM-based research methods would be a welcome addition.
Role Details
- Position: Research Associate
- Institute: El-Erian Institute for Behavioural Economics and Public Policy
- Location: Trumpington Street, Cambridge
- Type: Two-year fixed-term appointment, full-time, hybrid working available
- Start Date: 18 January 2027


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Application Process
- Interviews: Planned for the week commencing 24 August 2026
- Required Documents:
- Online application form
- Cover letter
- CV
- Statement covering your research and teaching expertise
- Proof of your writing (retrievable reference/URL, title page, and abstract/executive summary; please do not submit the papers themselves)
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Informal queries: hrsupport@jbs.cam.ac.uk
Reference: Quote reference NS50509 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity, and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
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