Research Assistant; Economics

Research Assistant (Economics) – University of Warwick

Be among the first 25 applicants. 1 day ago.

We are a leading department in the UK with a strong reputation for research excellence in economics.

The Department of Economics is seeking a Research Assistant to support Dr Nikhil Datta and Dr Amrita Kulka on the Nuffield‑Foundation‑funded project “
Towards housing affordability: local supply drivers and optimal policy
”. The project investigates factors influencing UK housing delivery and aims to identify optimal policy designs to improve affordability.

The role focuses on quantitative analysis of newly constructed data on planning documents, combined with housing construction, search, price and other contextual data. You will work with very large data sets, performing cleaning, processing, validation and integration from multiple sources. Key deliverables include analytical outputs, presentations for academic and policy audiences, and drafts of academic research papers.

• Construct, clean, manipulate and analyse Big Data sets related to housing and planning.
• Conduct literature reviews, dataset assessments and policy document analyses.
• Work closely with Dr Kulka and Dr Datta to disseminate project findings.
• Prepare presentations, reports and academic manuscripts for various audiences.
• Support project activities that may offer good preparation for doctoral studies, quantitative policy analysis careers or industry data‑science roles.

• Completed master’s degree in Economics by start date (exceptional candidates may hold a bachelor’s degree).
• Strong interest in housing economics and public policy.
• Pro‑active, team‑working attitude and excellent communication skills.
• Experience or ability to conduct data cleaning, manipulation and quantitative analysis of large data sets.
• Knowledge of relevant programming languages (e.g. Python, R) is desirable.

18‑month contract with potential for extension. Start date is flexible.

To apply, click "Apply" below and submit an application form by the closing deadline. Include a CV and cover letter. Your CV should contain education, employment history, relevant experience, and any career breaks. Your cover letter should explain your motivations and demonstrate how you meet the essential and desirable criteria listed in the attached PDF.

CLOSING DEADLINE:
Sunday 18th January 2026 at 11:55pm (UK Time).

CODING TEST:
Week commencing 26 January 2026
INTERVIEW:
Week commencing 02 February 2026

• Attractive pension scheme.
• 26 days holiday plus University Christmas closure.
• Generous parental/adoption leave policy.
• On‑site childcare facilities.
• Excellent learning and development opportunities.

Warwick is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive and respectful community. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and actively encourage participants from under‑represented groups.

• Roles involving regulated activity are subject to a DBS check at the appropriate level.
• Individuals with a barring order will not undertake work with the barred group.
• All employees, volunteers and partners share our safeguarding commitment.

• Interview and assessment dates will be confirmed following shortlisting.
• We are not offering sponsorship for the Skilled Worker visa; applicants must already have the right to work in the UK.
• Linked PDF: JD Research Assistant (Economics) (111136).pdf – 214KB.