Research Economist

Research Assistant Professor, Research Associate Professor, or Research Professor (Economist)

Founded in 1985 by visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist Frank Hawkins Kenan, the Kenan Institute of Private Enterprise is a nonprofit, nonpartisan business policy think tank affiliated with UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School. We work to translate the research findings of our global network of scholars into actionable solutions for our partners in business and policy. And – with the belief that private enterprise is the cornerstone of a prosperous and free society – the institute aims to leverage the private sector for the public good to improve the lives of people in North Carolina, across the country, and around the world. Learn more: kenaninstitute.unc.edu.

The incumbent will serve in the role of Regional Economist for the Institute. In this capacity, they will help direct the institute’s regional research activities related to its American Growth Project initiative and support efforts to translate regional economic and business data into actionable policy recommendations for broader societal impact: https://kenaninstitute.unc.edu/tag/american-growth-project/

Minimum Requirements

The position requires a master’s degree (or foreign equivalent) in Economics, Financial Economics, Public Policy, or a related field. Hired candidates with a master’s degree can anticipate an appointment of a Research Instructor. Hired candidates with a doctorate can anticipate an initial appointment of a Research Assistant Professor, Research Associate Professor, or Research Professor.

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

• Doctorate and at least 5 years of related experience that includes experience in public-sector or private-sector business and familiarity with regional economic research and its potential to impact practice and policy
• Experience presenting to large and influential audiences and leading multi-disciplinary teams.
• Excellent technical skills in economic policy analysis or related fields
• Experience interacting with federal, state, and local government leadership (elected officials, senior staff, and appointed officials)