Research Assistant/Associate in Theoretical Finance (Fixed Term) - Cambridge Endowment for Research

American finance Association; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 33,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent academic institution in Cambridge is seeking a Research Assistant/Associate to conduct theoretical finance research and engage with the academia. Applicants should possess a PhD in finance or relevant field and demonstrate a strong commitment to research. The role offers a competitive salary ranging from £33,827 to £51,753, along with additional funding and benefits including subsidised accommodation.

Benefits

Subsidised accommodation

Research funding up to £10,000

Qualifications

• PhD in finance or a closely relevant field.
• Strong commitment to research and publications in refereed academic journals.
• Good time management and planning skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct theoretical finance research in specified areas.
• Develop research objectives and proposals.
• Present research and publish in academic journals.

Job description

Role Overview

We are looking to recruit a Research Assistant/Associate to work at the Cambridge Endowment for Research in Finance (CERF) based in Central Cambridge at the University of Cambridge Judge Business School. CERF was founded in 2001 as an independent endowment in the University of Cambridge. The formal objective of CERF is to promote research within the University into all aspects of finance, financial institutions and financial markets, and their relationship with economic behaviour and performance.

You will be expected to conduct theoretical finance research in areas such as corporate finance, asset pricing, banking, market microstructure, asset management, behavioural or alternative finance. This will include developing research objectives and proposals, conducting individual and collaborative research projects, presenting your research to members of the Cambridge Finance research community and publishing your research in journals of the highest international standard. In addition, you will liaise with colleagues across the Cambridge Finance community, attend weekly CERF meetings and regular seminars and build a network of contacts.

You should have a PhD in finance, or a closely relevant field, and should be able to demonstrate a strong commitment to research and publications in refereed academic journals. Good time management and planning skills with a commitment to delivery are a pre-requisite of this role. In addition, you should be an enthusiastic team member who is driven and committed.

Please submit your online application form along with a cover letter, your CV, a statement covering your research (including research proposal for the next couple of years), your teaching expertise, a job market paper, and the names and contact details of three referees. Three references will be requested for candidates who are shortlisted for an interview.

Salary & Benefits

Salary is competitive, at a starting salary to be confirmed on offer of appointment. Salary scale is Grade 5 £33,827 - £36,498 (inclusive of the University 2.5% uplift) before PhD is awarded and Grade 7 £36,498 - £51,753 (inclusive of the University 2.5% uplift) after your PhD award. There is additional research funding of up to £10,000 over the two year term. Case for the higher salary range may be submitted for exceptional candidates where there is proof of offer(s) from other employers.

Subsidised accommodation and other benefits are available.

Terms of Appointment

This is a fixed‑term appointment for two years. The starting date is negotiable, but should be no later than 1 October 2026.

Interview Dates

Interviews are planned for 24 and 25 February 2026 via MS Teams.

How to Apply

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Informal queries may be directed to [e-mail].

Please quote reference NS48020 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

Immigration

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.