Jobs & Career
2025–26 Post-Graduate Research Assistant Opportunities at Washington University in St. Louis
Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL) has officially announced its 2025–26 Post-Graduate Research Assistant (RA) openings. These positions provide a golden opportunity for recent graduates interested in economics, public policy, and social science research to gain valuable hands-on experience working alongside leading academics.
If you’re preparing for graduate school, aiming to strengthen your research portfolio, or seeking a stepping stone into academia or policy, this program is an excellent fit.
🧠 About the Post-Graduate RA Program
The Department of Economics at Washington University in St. Louis offers a variety of post-graduate research assistantships for the 2025–2026 academic year. These roles allow recent graduates to work closely with faculty and research teams on data-driven projects that explore economic behavior, markets, and policy.
The research work spans multiple areas such as:
- Behavioral economics
- Public policy analysis
- Empirical social science
- Applied microeconomics
- Data management and econometric modeling
💼 What You’ll Do as a Research Assistant
Successful candidates will support faculty and partner institutions in conducting advanced research by performing tasks such as:
- Data cleaning, statistical analysis, and visualization
- Literature review and background research
- Assisting in the preparation of reports, publications, and policy briefs
- Developing and managing datasets for ongoing research projects
- Collaborating with other research assistants and scholars
These roles are designed to offer substantial professional development and provide direct exposure to the research process used in top graduate programs worldwide.
🎯 Ideal Candidate Profile
Applicants should possess the following qualifications:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related field
- Strong quantitative and analytical skills
- Experience with statistical software such as Stata, R, or Python
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities
- A genuine interest in academic or policy research
Previous experience in research, data analysis, or academic writing is a strong advantage.
🕓 Important Application Details
- Application Deadline: October 21, 2025, at 7:00 AM PST
- Program Start: Mid-2025 (exact start dates vary by department and project)
- Duration: Typically 1–2 years, depending on research assignment
- Compensation: Competitive salary and benefits package
Applicants are encouraged to submit their materials early, as many positions are reviewed on a rolling basis before the final deadline.
📈 Why Apply for a Post-Graduate RA Role?
A Post-Graduate Research Assistant position at Washington University in St. Louis offers more than just a job—it’s a launchpad for future success. Here’s why:
- Professional Mentorship – Work closely with renowned professors and economists.
- Graduate School Preparation – Strengthen your academic profile before applying for PhD programs.
- Research Experience – Learn to manage data, design studies, and contribute to publications.
- Networking Opportunities – Connect with leading research institutions and think tanks.
- Career Advancement – Gain experience valued in both academia and the private sector.
Many past RAs from WUSTL have progressed to top-tier PhD programs at Harvard, MIT, Stanford, and Columbia, or to impactful roles in government and global organizations.
🧩 Application Tips
To make your application stand out, consider these expert tips:
- Submit early – Some positions close as soon as they receive enough qualified applicants.
- Highlight relevant skills – Quantitative analysis, coding, and econometrics are highly valued.
- Customize your materials – Tailor your cover letter and resume to specific research projects.
- Secure strong references – Academic mentors who can vouch for your research abilities make a big difference.
- Show curiosity and initiative – Express a clear passion for evidence-based research and problem-solving.
🏫 About Washington University in St. Louis
Washington University in St. Louis is one of the leading research institutions in the United States, known for its world-class faculty, innovative research, and commitment to academic excellence. The Department of Economics fosters a collaborative environment that blends rigorous theoretical inquiry with real-world application.
Students and research assistants alike benefit from an interdisciplinary approach that connects economics, data science, psychology, and public policy — making it an ideal environment for ambitious postgraduates.
🧾 Summary of Key Details
| Position Title | Post-Graduate Research Assistant |
|---|---|
| Institution | Washington University in St. Louis |
| Department | Economics |
| Location | St. Louis, Missouri, USA |
| Application Deadline | October 21, 2025 |
| Program Duration | 1–2 Years |
| Ideal For | Economics, Policy, or Data Science Graduates |
| Salary | Competitive and Commensurate with Experience |
💡 Final Thoughts
The 2025–26 Post-Graduate Research Assistant Program at Washington University in St. Louis is one of the most prestigious early-career opportunities available to aspiring economists and social scientists. It provides real-world research experience, professional mentorship, and the foundation needed for future academic or policy success.
If you’re looking for a way to elevate your career, sharpen your research skills, and make a meaningful impact in the world of economics, this program is your gateway to success.
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