Research Associate, Payments

Company

Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City

When you join the Federal Reserve—the nation's central bank—you’ll play a key role, collaborating with leading professionals to strengthen and protect our economic, financial and payments systems.

We invest in contemporary and emerging technology each year to support the Federal Reserve and our economy, and we’re building a dynamic and diverse team for our future.

The Economic Research Department at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City is recruiting for the full-time position of Payments Research Associate (RA).

The Department conducts innovative analysis and research on a variety of topics, including applied microeconomics, consumer finance, payments, macroeconomics, monetary policy, international trade, and regional economics, among others.

The Department has an opening for an RA to start in fall/winter 2026.

The program generally runs for two years with the opportunity to extend, if applicable

This is an excellent position for someone who is passionate about research and considering a PhD in economics.

RAs develop analytical and communication skills as well as technical skills, such as programming and working in a high-performance computing environment.

RAs have gone on to PhD programs at Boston College, Columbia University, New York University, Stanford University, University of Chicago, University of Michigan, University of Minnesota, University of Wisconsin, University of Texas at Austin, University of Rochester, and Georgetown University

Key Activities



* Working with PhD economists on policy briefings and academic research projects.


* Analyzing data and creating charts from large transaction-level datasets and national surveys, including payment network and settlement data, consumer credit panels, and household survey microdata.


* Participating in econometric or theoretical research, writing for Bank publications, and delivering speeches to civic and educational groups.

​Required Education and Skills


* Bachelor’s or master’s degree in economics or a closely related field such as statistics, mathematics, or computer science.


* Coursework or experience in economics required; coursework or experience in econometrics, mathematics, statistics, and computer science highly desirable.


* Proficiency in programming languages and statistical software packages such as Stata, R, Python, or Matlab highly desirable.


* Strong academic record and experience with empirical research and data analysis highly desirable.

​To Apply


* Please attach a resume, cover letter, and unofficial transcript copy.

Incomplete applications will not be considered.


* We will review applications on a rolling basis, so applying early is recommended.


* Applications will be pre-screened prior to interview selections.

You will receive notification if you have been selected for a virtual interview.


* Please apply before November 1, 2026 to be considered for...