Predoctoral Research Fellow

SLAC; Palo Alto (CA); Hybrid; USD 41,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO / Paid time off

Tuition assistance

Health benefits

403(b) plan

Flexible work options

Job summary

The Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research (SIEPR) in Palo Alto, CA, invites applications for the Predoctoral Research Fellows Program. This full-time, fixed-term position offers post-baccalaureate researchers the opportunity to work with SIEPR faculty on research projects and participate in professional development, including enrollment in one Stanford course per quarter.

Predocs expand quantitative skills, learn the research process, and explore careers in economics and public policy.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in an applicable life science, social science, physical science or similar specific discipline.
• Strong quantitative skills and ability to learn statistical software.
• Interest in pursuing economics/public policy research.

Responsibilities

• Participate in planning and performing research tasks under supervision.
• Develop and administer survey instruments and rating scales.
• Review case report forms for accuracy and compliance with protocols.
• Identify, extract and summarize data; present findings to supervisor.
• Conduct literature searches and write summaries.
• Build and organize data using statistical tools.
• Adapt methods for research projects as directed.
• Assist in communicating research findings to internal/external audiences.

Skills

General research literacy

Computer skills

Deadline management

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Working with study participants

Education

Bachelor’s degree in an applicable discipline

Job description

The Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research (SIEPR) is Stanford University's premier institute for the study of economic policy. For more than 40 years, SIEPR has advanced rigorous, nonpartisan research that informs evidence-based policy solutions, develops the next generation of scholars and leaders, and addresses some of the world's most pressing economic challenges. SIEPR is committed to supporting research across a broad range of economic policy issues while convening leaders from academia, government, and business to foster informed dialogue and innovative solutions. The institute also inspires and prepares the next generation of economists and policy experts through research opportunities, mentorship, and academic engagement. Through these efforts, SIEPR advances its vision of improving lives by making economic policy more effective, equitable, and informed. To learn more about our work, please visit our website: Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research (SIEPR).

WORK SCHEDULE:

Depending on the individual project needs:

Either Hybrid work arrangement with at least 3 days per week on-site; or

On-site work arrangement, employee is expected to work on-site full-time.

BUDGETED SALARY:

$32.43/hr

POSITION SUMMARY:

The SIEPR Predoctoral Research Fellows Program offers post-baccalaureate individuals the opportunity to work full-time with one or two SIEPR faculty on research projects. Additionally, predoctoral research fellows (“predocs”) participate in professional development activities and are eligible to enroll in one Stanford course per quarter. Through these experiences, SIEPR predocs expand their quantitative skill set, develop a better understanding of the research process, and learn how research influences policy decisions.

The position is ideal for individuals planning to pursue a PhD and careers in economics, public policy, or related fields. An interest in pursuing research related to economics and/or the project field of interest is desirable. However, prior background in these areas is not strictly necessary; candidates interested in gaining exposure to the project areas of research are very welcome to apply. The programming experience required varies and will be outlined in the posting for each research project.

This position is for a fixed term of up to 2 years in the SIEPR Predoc Program year, which begins July 6, 2027. Bachelor’s degree must be obtained prior to your start date. Exceptions for starting later than July 6, 2027, may be considered at the discretion of the supervisor.

Employment in this position requires legal authorization to work in the United States. Stanford University may sponsor eligible candidates for a J-1 visa for this position and candidates may also work under valid OPT or OPT STEM authorization. Please note that this position is not eligible for H-1B visa sponsorship.

Responsibilities

Core Duties:

• Participating in the planning and performing/conducting research tasks by applying basic knowledge and understanding of scientific theory using precedents or other published guidelines and knowledge of theory and methods when specific precedents do not exist. General instruction provided by the supervisor or principal investigator. May interpret study results in collaboration with supervisor or PI.
• Participate in the development and administration of survey instruments and rating scales requiring judgment in applying non-routine procedures or methods. Analyze and summarize results for review with supervisor. Audit the accuracy and validity of data
• Review and audit case report forms for completion and accuracy with source documents and ensure compliance with research protocols.
• Identify, select, extract and summarize data and structured information. Present summary of findings to supervisor.
• Conduct literature searches, and write literature summaries and manuscripts, requiring preliminary judgments after the supervisor outlines conceptual approach.
• Build and organize data as requested by principal investigator or supervisor; use common statistical programs requiring the application of job control language in generating and organizing data.
• Adapt new, nonstandard methods outlined by supervisor in designing and evaluating phases of research projects, (i.e., educational materials, questionnaires, strategies for recruitment, data quality control procedures and processes). May follow up with to ensure approvals and completion, seeking guidance where necessary.
• Assist with development, communication and design of research findings to internal and external audiences, which may include web updates, social media, and/or white papers, for use in recruitment, educational, or awareness of programs, with guidance from supervisor.
  

Minimum Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in an applicable life science, social science, physical science or similar specific discipline

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• General understanding of scientific theory and methods, typically gained through completion of an undergraduate degree in a related field.
• General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to complete detailed work accurately.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work with study participants.
• Pay Range $28.67 - $53.52
• Pay Frequency Hourly
• Fixed Term Y
• Stanford Schools and Units Vice Provost and Dean of Research
• Full time or Part time Full Time
• Regular or Temporary Regular
• Job Category Research
• Posting Date 09/24/2026, 09:31 PM
• Grade E
• Job Identification 201190

Benefits that support you, and your future

18+ PTO days per year

Health benefits start when you start

Flexible work options

$6000+ annual tuition and training assistance

403(b) plan

Mental health and wellness programs

Free and discounted commuter transportation

Applies to regular full-time positions.

Notice to Applicants
The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classifications and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.
Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of their job.
Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Stanford University provides job pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a particular job. The specific pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on a wide range of factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to geographic work location, relevant knowledge, skills and abilities, relevant education, years of relevant experience, depth and breadth of relevant experience, and performance; further including but not limited to other business and organization needs such as the scope and responsibilities of the position, the minimum qualifications, departmental budget availability, and market and internal equity across the university, school/ unit, department, as well as job reporting relations.

Why work at Stanford

World-changing work in a culture of continuous learning

An inspiring community that values collaboration

High-quality health and wellness benefits that put you and your family first

Access to world-class education and career development, with tuition reimbursement, training assistance, and more