Research Associate: Economics

Cato Institute - Washington, DC

Full-time - Entry Level

Hybrid - Washington, DC

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Cato Institute is seeking a Research Associate to support its economic policy research team. This role involves assisting senior researchers with various tasks, including producing original policy analyses, editing content, and managing events. The Research Associate will have opportunities to co-author research pieces and will be encouraged to generate new research ideas. This position is part of a two-year program designed to provide mentorship and educational opportunities in public policy, academia, and related fields.

Responsibilities

• Support the research of senior members of the economic studies team.
• Support the administrative and organizational needs of the economic studies team.
• Occasionally co-author policy analyses, working papers, peer-reviewed academic papers, blog posts, and other empirical work with members of the economic studies team.

Requirements

• A degree in economics, statistics, political science, or data science is required.
• Strong technical skills in one or more of the following: Excel, Python, STATA, or R.
• Expertise with Microsoft Office suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Experience and comfort in using economic data.
• Familiarity with basic macroeconomic and microeconomic concepts.
• Strong organizational skills, including the ability to work on multiple tasks independently and as part of a team on a time-sensitive basis.
• Strong writing and editing skills, keen attention to detail, quality, and accuracy.
• Ability and willingness to challenge and question ideas.
• Reliability, a strong work ethic, and a positive, professional mindset.
• Problem-solving initiative and openness to learning new processes and skills.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Employer contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Generous vacation and sick days
• Paid parental leave
• Employer-provided life and disability insurance
• 401(k) employer match
• Transit/ Parking benefits
• Pet discount plan