Research Assistants

Each year, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the Board) hires a new cohort of college graduates to work as Research Assistants (RAs). We seek candidates with a diverse array of backgrounds from universities across the country. Our RAs gain real-world experience by working alongside PhD economists to assist with original economic research and provide critical support for policy analysis. The Research Assistant position is a two-year program and most RAs leave the role well suited to pursue a graduate degree, often in economics, or a number of different careers at the Board or with other organizations. While at the Board, RAs often become involved in a variety of other projects, including collaboration with various government agencies and Federal Reserve System Banks, and participation in efforts to provide economic and financial literacy instruction to local high school students. RAs are encouraged to attend academic research seminars and presentations given by Board economists and visiting scholars.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in economics, math, or related field
• Strong academic background in economics, mathematics, statistics, finance, computer science, or in related fields with demonstrated economics coursework
• Demonstrated proficiency with at least one statistical software package or programming language (such as MATLAB, Stata, “R”, or Unix/Linux)
• Strong written and oral communication skills, experience working collaboratively, and demonstration of perseverance, initiative, and integrity