Apply to the SIEPR Predoctoral Research Fellows Program
On Monday, January 12, 2026, SIEPR will begin accepting a new round of applications for positions that will begin on July 1, 2026. For full-consideration, applications for these open projects must be received through the Stanford Careers website by 5pm on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
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 of up to 5 units each quarter. The program will pay for up to 5 units of Stanford course tuition per academic year. 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.
This predoc position is for a fixed term within the SIEPR program year, which runs from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027. Bachelor’s degree must be obtained prior to your start date. Exceptions for starting later than July 1, 2026, may be considered at the discretion of the supervisor. The position is eligible for one renewal in a consecutive second year based on programmatic need and funding.
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.
Please visit the Stanford Careers website for the complete job posting which includes minimum qualifications, desired qualifications, core duties, and more.
How to Apply
- For the job posting and to access the application, go to the Stanford Careers website.
- You will be asked to identify the 3 projects that you are most interested in. The full list of Open Positions can be found on the SIEPR website.
- Documents to submit with your application:
- Cover Letter - Describe your interest in the program and specific faculty projects; whether you prefer a one or two-year appointment; your familiarity with programming languages (Stata, R, Python, Matlab, etc.); your prior experience as a research assistant and with independent research (e.g., a senior thesis); any other relevant information.
- CV - Include all relevant education, research experience, work experience, and skills.
- Undergraduate and (if applicable) Graduate Transcripts - You may submit an unofficial copy.
- Although it is not required, you may choose to include ONE optional writing sample (please do not submit more than one writing sample). This should be a paper (or excerpt) that displays your writing and analytic skills and capacity to execute independent research. A senior thesis, Master's thesis, or a term paper are all fine choices. Any length is acceptable.
Onsite/Hybrid
The SIEPR Predoctoral Research Fellows program is an in-person program. SIEPR’s default expectation is working 3 days a week in the office. Visa holders must comply with the in-person requirements stipulated by their visa. Barring such legal requirements, faculty mentors may set different expectations for in-office work based on research needs.
Questions?
For further questions, please review our frequently asked questions or email siepr-fellowships@stanford.edu.