IFS offers several placements each summer to economics students who are interested in how microeconomics can be applied to public policy issues and who are considering a career in economic research.
Placements are intended to give a taste of research work at IFS similar to that done by newly-recruited permanent research staff. As such, most projects will be appropriate for individuals currently studying for undergraduate or master’s degrees, although some projects suitable for more advanced students may be available.
Placements are usually six weeks, with a potential for eight week placements depending on project needs. We will ask for your preference on the length of the placement, but expressing a preference will not impact our evaluation of candidates.
During the placement, a Summer Student might typically expect to work with an IFS research team on tasks such as reviewing existing literature, preparing and analysing data, and writing up research results.
We welcome applications from those in their penultimate or final year of an undergraduate degree with a strong economics component, and from those studying towards a master’s degree in economics. Suitable candidates will be selected on the basis of a short interview, which will take place at our offices in central London.
Undergraduates should be expecting to obtain a first-class degree, and we would generally expect those currently studying for a master’s degree to have a first-class undergraduate degree with a strong economics component. They should have a strong grasp of basic economic concepts, as well as the ability to apply these to practical policy issues. Much of IFS research involves the analysis of data, and applicants are therefore expected to have a high degree of numeracy. However, please note that familiarity with specific mathematical and statistical techniques and computer packages used in applied economics is not a prerequisite.
Any offer of employment is subject to the eligibility to work in the UK. IFS cannot sponsor visas for summer placements.
IFS commitment to diversity
We aim to foster a respectful and inclusive environment, in which people from all backgrounds feel welcome and valued.
Additional information
We recognise that access to accommodation in London can be a challenge for some candidates. To help reduce this potential barrier, we are able to offer a limited number of additional stipends, in addition to the advertised salary package, towards accommodation expenses for those who request consideration. Candidates wishing to be considered for such a stipend should tick the relevant box in the application form. Please note that this is intended to support those for whom an internship in London might not otherwise be possible – not those with the option of living with family in or close to London, for example. We may follow up with you to enquire further about the circumstances of successful candidates who have ticked the box to be considered for the additional support. Ticking this box will not affect your chances of being selected for the placement.
Timeline
The dates of the recruitment stages may change depending on business needs, and additional steps may be added to the process where needed.
Application form and numeracy test deadline 11pm 17th January 2027.
Referees are contacted when shortlisted candidates are invited to interview.
Interviews in our London office - w/c 1st February 2027.
Successful candidates can expect to start working at the IFS from July 2027, with flexibility for an earlier start to be discussed.
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Contact Details:
Institute for Fiscal Studies Recruitment Team
