Research Associate - Economics or Finance

Company Description

The Institute for Advanced Studies in Complex Choices is a research-focused organization dedicated to addressing contemporary challenges through innovative solutions and interdisciplinary approaches. Known for its emphasis on data-driven insights, the institute fosters an environment of collaboration among experts in diverse fields. Located in Hyderabad, the institute drives impactful economic and financial research aimed at influencing policy and strategic choices.

Role Description

This is a full-time, on-site role based in Hyderabad for a Research Associate specializing in Economics or Finance. The role supports ongoing research projects in economics, finance, and public policy. It is designed for early-career candidates seeking hands-on exposure in applied research, data analysis, and policy or market-oriented work under the guidance of senior economists and researchers.

This position offers a strong foundation for careers in research, consulting, policy, finance, or doctoral studies.

Key Responsibilities

Independent Research

• Design and execute self-directed research tasks within assigned themes.
• Conduct independent literature reviews, synthesize findings, and identify research gaps.
• Develop research questions, hypotheses, and analytical frameworks with limited supervision.
• Produce short research notes and briefs.

Data & Analysis

• Independently collect, clean, and analyse datasets.
• Perform descriptive statistics and basic econometric or financial analysis.
• Translate data outputs into clear insights, charts, and tables.

Writing & Documentation

• Draft sections of research reports, working papers, or policy notes.
• Maintain transparent documentation of data sources, assumptions, and methods.
• Support revisions based on peer or senior review.

Project Ownership

• Own specific workstreams or modules within larger research projects.
• Manage timelines, milestones, and version control for assigned tasks.
• Present findings internally and respond to technical feedback.

Required Qualifications

• Master's degree in economics or finance or public policy or business management.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research or analytical projects.
• Solid grounding in economic theory or financial concepts.
• Proficiency in Excel and willingness to work with @Risk and SPSS.
• Clear written communication and structured thinking.

Preferred (Nice-to-Have)

• Prior experience producing independent research outputs (papers, notes, blogs, dissertations).
• Familiarity with basic econometrics or financial modelling.
• Experience using public macro, financial, or survey datasets.
• Interest in advanced academic or applied research pathways.

Key Skills & Attributes

• Intellectual ownership and accountability.
• Analytical rigor and curiosity.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong organization and documentation habits.

What We Offer

• Autonomy over defined research areas.
• Mentorship and technical feedback.
• Opportunity to build a credible research portfolio.
• Exposure to real-world economic and financial questions.

Compensation

• In line with IIMs or other leading Research Organizations.