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- Tasks: Support impactful research in environmental economics and energy markets with data analysis and modelling.
- Company: Join the prestigious London School of Economics, committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, hybrid working, and excellent training opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible start date, with potential for extension based on funding.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on research experience and enhance your PhD application with real-world impact.
- Qualifications: Undergraduate or Master’s degree in Economics or a quantitative field; advanced R/Python skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36513 - 41565 £ per year.
LSE is committed to building a diverse, equitable and truly inclusive university. We are seeking a full-time Research Assistant ("pre-doc") to work closely with Dr. Stephen Jarvis on a research project at the intersection of environmental economics and energy markets. The successful candidate will play an integral role in supporting data-driven, policy-relevant research examining energy markets and a range of associated social and environmental challenges. This role is ideal for candidates planning to apply to top PhD programmes and looking for hands-on research experience on high-impact questions in energy and environmental economics.
Key Responsibilities For The Role Include:
- Data collection, cleaning, and merging from large-scale microdata sources (e.g., electricity grid operational data, environmental emissions data, vehicle registrations, company accounts).
- Conduct data analysis using econometric and statistical tools (R and/or Python).
- Develop and conduct optimisation modelling (e.g. electricity market and grid dispatch).
- Assist in literature reviews and summarising academic research.
- Contribute to writing research papers and policy reports.
- Participate in meetings with collaborators and present research findings when appropriate.
- Support administrative and organisational aspects of research projects, as needed.
Essential Criteria:
- Undergraduate or Master’s degree in Economics or another quantitative discipline, to be completed or close to completion by post start date.
- Advanced programming skills in R and/or Python.
- Willingness to learn unfamiliar tools as needed (e.g. GitHub, APIs, dispatch models).
- Familiarity with econometric techniques, especially panel data methods.
- Clear, concise written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and manage time across multiple research tasks.
We offer an occupational pension scheme, generous annual leave, hybrid working and excellent training and development opportunities. The expected start date is flexible but ideally from Autumn 2026. The initial appointment will be for one year, with the possibility of extension based on funding. For further information about the post, please see the how to apply document, job description and the person specification. If you have any technical queries with applying on the online system, please use the "contact us" links at the bottom of the LSE Jobs page. Should you have any queries about the role, please email geog.dept@lse.ac.uk. The closing date for receipt of applications is 27 March 2026 (23.59 UK time). Regrettably, we are unable to accept any late applications.
Research Assistant (“Pre-Doc”) – Environmental Economics and Innovation employer: The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
Contact Detail:
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant (“Pre-Doc”) – Environmental Economics and Innovation
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of environmental economics and innovation. Attend relevant events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential collaborators or mentors.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your data analysis projects, especially those using R or Python. This will give you an edge and demonstrate your hands-on experience to potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of current trends in energy markets and environmental policies. Be ready to discuss how your background aligns with the role and how you can contribute to impactful research.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant (“Pre-Doc”) – Environmental Economics and Innovation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Research Assistant. Highlight relevant experience in environmental economics, data analysis, and programming skills in R or Python. We want to see how your background aligns with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about environmental economics and how you can contribute to our research. Be specific about your skills and experiences that relate to the role, and don’t forget to mention your enthusiasm for working with Dr. Stephen Jarvis!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Since this role involves data collection and analysis, make sure to highlight your technical skills clearly. If you've worked with econometric techniques or optimisation modelling before, let us know! We love candidates who are eager to learn new tools as well.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. Make sure to double-check all your documents before submitting, and remember, the closing date is 27 March 2026. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
✨Know Your Research
Before the interview, dive deep into the research project you'll be working on. Familiarise yourself with Dr. Stephen Jarvis's work and the intersection of environmental economics and energy markets. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you ask insightful questions during the interview.
✨Brush Up on Your Skills
Make sure you're comfortable with R and Python, as these are essential for the role. Consider doing a quick refresher on econometric techniques and optimisation modelling. Being able to discuss your programming experience confidently will impress the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your data collection and analysis skills. Be ready to discuss how you would approach cleaning and merging large datasets or conducting literature reviews. Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Communication Skills
Since clear communication is key in this role, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. You might be asked to present findings or summarise research, so demonstrating your ability to convey information effectively will be crucial.