Harvard University Pre-Doctoral Fellowship in Behavioral-Economic Theory (Visa Sponsorship Available)

Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
Salary Range: $50,000 – $60,000 per year
Deadline: Applications encouraged by December 5, 2025
Start Date: Summer or Fall 2026
Duration: 1-year renewable (up to 2–3 years)
Visa Sponsorship: ✅ Available

🚀 Opportunity Overview

Harvard University’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences invites applications for a Pre-Doctoral Fellowship in Behavioral-Economic Theory, under the supervision of Professor Matthew Rabin, one of the world’s leading scholars in behavioral economics.

This prestigious full-time research position is designed for highly motivated graduates preparing to pursue PhD studies in Economics—particularly those passionate about the intersection of psychology and economic theory.

Successful candidates will work alongside Professor Rabin and other researchers to formalize and evaluate theoretical models that integrate human behavior, psychology, and economic decision-making.

🧠 Research Focus

The fellowship centers on psychologically-grounded economic theory—an innovative approach to improving the realism of classical models. Research areas include:

• Limited rationality (e.g., cognitive biases, misinterpretations)
• Time-inconsistent preferences (e.g., self-control problems, delayed gratification)
• Advanced utility models (incorporating beliefs, expectations, and self-image)
• Game theory, decision-making under uncertainty, and belief updating

This role is ideal for candidates eager to explore formal theoretical models rather than field or lab experiments. It focuses on mathematical rigor, proof-based economic reasoning, and theoretical development.

🎓 Key Responsibilities

As a Pre-Doctoral Fellow, your tasks will include:

• Conducting formal analysis of behavioral and classical economic models.
• Proving or disproving key theoretical conjectures using advanced mathematical reasoning.
• Developing tools and materials to aid in the teaching and application of behavioral models.
• Collaborating with other pre-doctoral fellows and faculty in theoretical economics.
• Conducting literature reviews and summarizing empirical findings relevant to behavioral economics.

You will also contribute to papers co-authored with Professor Rabin and assist in refining the theoretical frameworks that underpin modern behavioral economics.

🌱 Professional Development

This position offers unparalleled access to Harvard’s vibrant academic community. Fellows can attend seminars, workshops, and graduate-level courses, enhancing both theoretical literacy and academic research skills.

While the fellowship is primarily theory-focused, it also strengthens your foundation in psychology-informed modeling, useful for those who plan to pursue empirical economics research in the future.

Past fellows have gone on to prestigious PhD programs at Harvard, Stanford, UC Berkeley, UPenn, and other top institutions.

💼 Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree (completed before the start date).
• Strong foundation in proof-based microeconomic theory (comparable to Mas-Colell, Whinston & Green; Jehle & Reny; Kreps).
• Proficiency in mathematics, probability, and statistics.
• Experience using LaTeX/Overleaf.
• Interest in pursuing a PhD in Economics or related disciplines.

Preferred:

• Knowledge of R, Python, or MATLAB.
• Background in behavioral economics, psychology, or experimental design (a plus but not required).

💰 Compensation and Benefits

• Salary: $50,000 – $60,000 per year (depending on experience).
• Benefits: Full health insurance and Harvard employee benefits.
• Work Schedule: Full-time, on-site in Cambridge, MA.
• Visa Sponsorship: Available for qualified international applicants.

📅 Application Timeline

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, but candidates are strongly encouraged to apply by December 5, 2025, for full consideration.

📨 How to Apply

Submit all required materials as a single PDF file via the link attached below.

Include the following:

1. CV/Resume
2. Cover Letter (detailing coursework, research interests, and career goals)
3. Start date preference and visa sponsorship needs
4. University Transcripts (unofficial copies acceptable)
5. Two academic references (names, positions, and emails)

PDF naming convention:
LastName_FirstName_PredocApp2026.pdf
Example: Bayes_Thomas_PredocApp2026.pdf

Email subject line:
Pre-Doctoral Fellow Application 2026 – [Your Name]

⚖️ Equal Opportunity Statement

Harvard University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering diversity, inclusion, and non-discrimination. The institution prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, gender, religion, disability, or any legally protected characteristic.

📍 About Harvard University

Founded in 1636, Harvard University stands as one of the world’s most prestigious research institutions. Its Department of Economics is globally recognized for advancing knowledge in economic theory, policy design, and behavioral science.

Working at Harvard offers not just career advancement but an opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge economic research that shapes the future of global policy and academic thought.

🔗 Quick Summary

✈️ Final Thoughts

This Harvard Pre-Doctoral Fellowship represents a rare opportunity to engage deeply with behavioral-economic theory while preparing for elite doctoral studies. Candidates with a strong theoretical background, analytical mindset, and a passion for bridging psychology and economics are encouraged to apply.

Don’t miss your chance to launch your academic career at Harvard University — apply now before positions are filled!

Apply Now: https://academicpositions.harvard.edu/login