About the Role
The research focused position involves both applied econometrics and applied macroeconomics, undertaking directed research on nowcasting and structural modelling as a member of a multi-institutional team.
Nowcasting is determining and understanding the current state of the economy. It is fundamental to macroeconomic policy making. The availability of new data and methods make it an exciting time to research nowcasting and there is the possibility of making a real policy impact.
The position is funded by an Australian Research Council Discovery Grant “Nowcasting and Interpreting the Australian Economy” (DP230100959). The aim of this grant is to produce high- quality research papers developing novel nowcasting methodologies that will enable the timely interpretation of economic developments. Fiscal policy will be a particular area of focus. This work is intended to inform economic policy in Australia. The research team includes: Dr Tim Robinson, Professor Kalvinder Shields and Dr Yong Song (University of Melbourne), Professor Kevin Lee (University of Nottingham), Dr Luke Hartigan (University of Sydney), Mr David Stephan, Dr Khanh Hoang and Dr Zhuo Li (Australian Treasury).
Your responsibilities will include:
- Collaborating with the Chief and Partner Investigators to conduct the research outlined in the grant
- Conducting academic/engaged research under the direction of a supervisor
- Producing and disseminating working papers and presentations based on academic research
Who We Are Looking For
You should have experience in at least two of the following areas: state-space modelling, factor models, Structural Vector AutoRegressions (SVARs), and Machine Learning algorithms like Recurrent Neural Networks. Additionally, you should possess knowledge of the relevant applied macroeconomic literature and the ability to apply it, including explaining economic motivations for identification strategies in SVAR. Furthermore, you must have knowledge of, and experience in, at least one of Matlab, R, Python, or similar. The ability to conduct independent research, take initiative, and assume responsibility for developing and completing research papers is crucial. You should also exhibit the ability and willingness to collaborate in teams for successful project outcomes, along with a track record in written communication skills.
You will also have:
- A PhD or near completion of a PhD in economics or related field that demonstrates expertise tied to the externally funded project;
- Highly developed interpersonal and oral communications skills
- An interest in policy-relevant research and the dissemination of that research to non- academic audiences
About the Melbourne Institute The Melbourne Institute is a research-only department within the Faculty of Business and Economics at the University of Melbourne. It is Australia’s leading and longest standing research institute in the field of economics, undertaking cutting-edge research into key issues relevant to modern economic and social policy. The Melbourne Institute has a core faculty of some 40 academics and academic specialists, a team of research staff that include expertise in data science and analytics, a team of professional/administrative staff that support the mission and operations of the department, honorary fellows and PhD students. Reflecting the standards of research excellence achieved at the Melbourne Institute, staff are expected to publish in internationally acclaimed peer reviewed journals and to lead the public debate on economic and social policy. http://melbourneinstitute.unimelb.edu.au/
About the University The University of Melbourne is consistently ranked amongst the leading universities in the world. We are proud of our people, our commitment to research and teaching excellence, and our global engagement.
Benefits of Working with Us In addition to having the opportunity to grow and be challenged, and to be part of a vibrant campus life, our people enjoy a range of rewarding benefits: Flexible working arrangements, generous personal, parental and cultural leave Competitive remuneration, 17% super, salary packaging and leave loading Free and subsidised health and wellbeing services, and access to fitness and cultural clubs Discounts on a wide range of products and services including Myki cards and Qantas Club Career development opportunities and 25% off graduate courses for staff and their immediate families To find out more, visit https://about.unimelb.edu.au/careers/staff-benefits.
Be Yourself We value the unique backgrounds, experiences and contributions that each person brings to our community and encourage and celebrate diversity. First Nations people, those identifying as LGBTQIA+, females, people of all ages, with disabilities and culturally and linguistically diverse people are encouraged to apply. Our aim is to create a workforce that reflects the community in which we live.
Application Process
The successful candidate(s) will be expected to start in the first half of 2024 (subject to obtaining an appropriate visa to work within Australia, if required).
Please note that applications will be prioritised for those with current working rights in Australia.
All applications should include a cover letter explaining why the candidate is interested in working at the Melbourne Institute, a C.V., a job-market paper, and three letters of reference.
For further details and the position description (search Job number 0033069 ), please visit the University of Melbourne recruiting webpage We are dedicated to ensuring barrier free and inclusive practices to recruit the most talented candidates. If you require any reasonable adjustments with the recruitment process, please contact us at hr-talent@unimelb.edu.au.
Only applications made online via the EconJobMarket will be considered. Please do not apply via the University of Melbourne website.
- Curriculum vitae
- Job market paper
- Additional paper (optional)
- Additional paper (optional)
- Other material (in one file) (optional)
- Cover letter
- Video presentation of job market paper (optional)
- Letters of reference: 3