Research Economist

The Opportunity Play an important role in shaping the future of the Australian Economy Permanent opportunities based in the Sydney CBD As a Research Economist, you will conduct and publish self-directed policy-oriented research (RBA - Research Discussion Papers), develop the Bank’s modelling suite and provide advice on policy issues alongside our researchers as you build your research profile and career in one of the world’s leading central banks. The opportunities feature significant autonomy in identifying and conducting policy-relevant research and analysis related to the Bank’s economic and financial research agenda (RBA - Research Priorities). As such, it offers the opportunity to make a real impact on monetary policy and the welfare of the Australian people, while also providing a stimulating environment to undertake research using cutting-edge data and techniques. This includes the potential to work with world-leading administrative micro-datasets on workers and businesses, build and develop core open‑economy policy models, and engage with the academic and policy community. About You We’re seeking applicants who have a PhD in Economics or are due to complete their PhD by mid 2026. Specialisations of interest include monetary policy and policy implementation, macroeconomic modelling (e.g. DSGE and HANK) – particularly small‑open economy modelling – international economics and finance, macro‑financial and macroprudential modelling, labour markets, and use of microdata to answer macroeconomic questions. Policy‑focused research and previous work experience in policy institutions are desirable. Candidates must demonstrate strong technical, analytical, and written and oral communication skills. In addition to your research expertise, you will bring a curious mindset and foster a culture of collaboration and passion to deliver evidence‑based research that supports the wellbeing of all Australians. Next Steps Application: Where relevant, please submit your cover letter, resume, three letters of reference, a research paper(s), and a non‑technical summary of job market (or other) paper. Applications will be assessed as they are submitted with interviews being carried out throughout December and January 2026. Note: If you have applied via the JoE advertisement, there is no need to reapply via this process. Be More Working for an organisation that truly makes a difference to the people of Australia, we can offer development and career opportunities in a collaborative environment that supports your growth, wellbeing and promotes flexibility. Your individual growth and success drives the RBA forward as an organisation. Be more means you can do more, for yourself and for Australia. Why RBA? The RBA makes an important contribution to the Australian economy through the pursuit of national economic policy objectives and associated activities in financial markets and banking. We also issue Australia’s banknotes and operate infrastructure critical to the payments system, all of which contribute to the welfare of the Australian people. Made up of specialists across a wide range of fields, our people, values, and culture play a critical role in achieving our objectives. Striving to be Open & Dynamic, we consider and incorporate different perspectives, work across teams and are transparent with each other, whilst delivering quality together effectively and focusing on outcomes by prioritising, testing, learning, and refining as we go. Our people conduct themselves with a high degree of integrity, while striving for excellence in the work they perform and the outcomes they achieve. We encourage intelligent inquiry and we treat one another with respect while promoting the public interest through our efforts. We know it is the growth and success of our people that drives the RBA forward. Come and make a bigger contribution while you build and develop your own skills too, because being more means you can do more, for yourself and for Australia. The Reserve Bank of Australia is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion through key initiatives. We welcome and encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culturally and linguistically diverse background, those living with a disability and from the LGBTQ+ community. We are committed to making the recruitment process fair and equitable for all our candidates. Be careful – Don’t provide your bank or credit card details when applying for jobs. Don’t transfer any money or complete suspicious online surveys. If you see something suspicious, report this job ad. #J-18808-Ljbffr