Associate Economist

Requisition ID 33732 Office Country United Kingdom Office City London Division Office of the Chief Economist Contract Type Fixed Term Contract Length 2 years Posting End Date 27/07/2023

Purpose of Job

The Associate Economist reports to the Director of Research and contributes to the analysis of large data sets and the preparation of core OCE products, either independently or under the supervision of a senior economist. The Associate Economist is responsible for the independent management of large data sets and their analysis, including through machine-learning techniques. He or she also provides guidance to and shares knowledge with interns and Analysts regarding the analysis of large datasets.

Background

OCE consists of a team of approximately 15 economists, analysts and assistants. It contributes to the operational, policy and strategy work of the Bank by providing intellectual leadership on economic and financial aspects of transition in the region. OCE is responsible for research on critical economic issues relevant to the transition region and EBRD operations, macroeconomic analysis in support of country work, and relations with academia. It also leads the design and implementation of large-scale surveys (such as the Enterprise Surveys, Banking Environment and Performance Surveys and Life in Transition surveys); randomised impact studies; and the production of most major external publications produced by the OCE, including the annual Transition Report.

Facts / Scale

• The Associate Economist works under the general direction of the Director of Research;
• The Associate Economist provides research assistance on multiple research projects, either individually or as part of teams that typically consist of 1-2 economists, including external co-authors;
• The Associate Economist independently manages large datasets / big data, including through using a dedicated OCE server for this purpose
• The Associate Economist provides economists with technical support in the area of analysis of large datasets and machine learning
• The Associate Economist handles technical queries related to large datasets and access to these datasets;
• The Associate Economist has no formal reports but he/she helps manage research analysts and interns;
• The Associate Economist has responsibility for identifying and managing IT needs of the department in close collaboration with (Associate) Directors

  Accountabilities & Responsibilities

  • Organise and manage on a day-to-day basis large datasets in OCE
  • Assist with the design and implementation of impact studies using large datasets, including building on internal micro data of the EBRD
  • Contribute to the generation of key OCE products, including chapters in the Transition Report or working papers, including through the application of machine-learning techniques
  • Assist with the analysis of large-scale datasets, including text-based data, using machine learning techniques
  • Performing ad hoc assignments involving large datasets and/or machine learning techniques
  • Key trainer of OCE analysts and interns on methods of analysis of large datasets including text-based data

    Knowledge, Skills, Experience & Qualifications

    • At least a Master’s degree in economics or a related field;
    • Experience in managing large datasets including text-based data
    • Knowledge of machine learning techniques and their application in economic analysis
    • Strong analytical and quantitative skills, including a strong knowledge of API interfaces, Python and other programming languages, as well as statistical software such as R and/or Stata
    • Excellent written and oral communication skills in English;
    • Good interpersonal skills;
    • Ability to train junior staff;
    • Familiarity with the EBRD region of operations and work or study experience in the region is helpful;
    • Knowledge of one or more languages of the region is an advantage.

      What is it like to work at the EBRD?

      Our agile and innovative approach is what makes life at the EBRD a unique experience! You will be part of a pioneering and diverse international organisation, and use your talents to make a real difference to people's lives and help shape the future of the regions we invest in.

      The EBRD environment provides you with:

      • Varied, stimulating and engaging work that gives you an opportunity to interact with a wide range of experts in the financial, political, public and private sectors across the regions we invest in;
      • A working culture that embraces inclusion and celebrates diversity;
      • An environment that places sustainability, equality and digital transformation at the heart of what we do.

        Diversity is one of the Bank’s core values which are at the heart of everything it does. A diverse workforce with the right knowledge and skills enables connection with our clients, brings pioneering ideas, energy and innovation. The EBRD staff is characterised by its rich diversity of nationalities, cultures and opinions and we aim to sustain and build on this strength. As such, the EBRD seeks to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities and works in an inclusive environment. The EBRD encourages all qualified candidates who are nationals of the EBRD member countries to apply regardless of their racial, ethnic, religious and cultural background, gender, sexual orientation or disabilities. As an inclusive employer, we promote flexible working and expecting our employee to attend the office 50% of their working time.