Associate Director, Research

MILKEN INSTITUTE•Santa Monica, CA

23h•Hybrid

About The Position

The research team at the Milken Institute International pillar is seeking exceptional candidates in international finance, development economics, or macroeconomics at the Associate Director level. Qualified candidates will have excellent oral and written communication skills and an advanced degree (Ph.D., MBA/MS with relevant experience) in economics or a related field, with a solid background in statistical and economic modelling using R, Python, Stata, or a similar programming language. This position will work closely with the Milken Institute’s Asia team in Singapore on identifying research opportunities and executing deliverables related to the team’s programmatic work. Fluency in Mandarin (native preferred) is an essential requirement for this position. The ideal candidate will work collaboratively to conduct applied research on issues pertinent to international economic and financial trends. The ability to communicate complex, technical concepts concisely and clearly to an audience with various backgrounds and levels of experience is essential.

Requirements

Fluency in Mandarin (required; native strongly preferred)
Knowledgeable about China's development policies and regional growth dynamics
Advanced degree (Ph.D. preferred) in international finance, economics, or a related field
A minimum of 6 years of experience in conducting quantitative and qualitative research
A minimum of 6 years of experience with statistical analyses and programming tools such as R or Python
Strong quantitative skills and analytical problem-solving required
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written)
Proved track-record of ability to manage projects workflow/priorities and meet deadlines
Independence and ability to take ownership of each project from start to finish
Ability to work as part of a team and perform under deadline pressure

Responsibilities

Write reports with findings and recommendations that can be shared with stakeholders
Conduct sophisticated empirical research in international finance and economics
Gather and analyze complex economic data from multiple sources (such as the IMF, World Bank, and national statistical offices)
Present research findings to technical and non-technical audiences internally and externally
Produce original research and reports on regional conditions in Asia and the Pacific, including the Milken Institute’s “Best Performing Cities: China” report
Collaborate closely with the Milken Institute’s Asia team on identifying research opportunities and delivering work products in support of the team’s programmatic work
Promote the Milken Institute’s work and research findings through interactions with the media and the press and by representing the institute at regional and global convenings
Duties as assigned