Data Analyst, Penn Wharton Budget Model

University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning.

Job Description Summary

The Penn Wharton Budget Model informs policy discussions in Washington, D.C. by supporting the production of data-driven, non-normative research on issues at the intersection of business and public policy. To this end, PWBM is seeking a Data Analyst to assist with research on a variety of public policy topics, including tax reform, health care and entitlements reform, immigration, education, and the federal budget. Job responsibilities include assisting with research and model development, compiling and maintaining databases, performing statistical analyses, writing research reports, and providing research-related technical programming support.

Two-year position subject to renewal based on the discretion of faculty director and available funds. This position is contingent upon restricted funding.

Job Responsibilities

• Under the guidance of PWBM team leader and PWBM's Faculty Director, contribute to research and the development of models for policy and economic analysis in Python and R.
• Utilize programming skills (including Python, R, and SQL) to compile, clean, organize, and maintain datasets; perform statistical analysis in support of PWBM research projects.
• Analyze data and create tables and charts for PWBM research and publications.
• Contribute to the writing of PWBM publications, such as issue briefs, blog posts, working papers, and model documentation.

Qualifications

A Bachelor's degree is required. Field of study (undergraduate or graduate) in Economics, Statistics, Finance, Mathematics, or a related discipline is required. A minimum of 2 years of experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience, is required.

Additional credentials, skills, and qualities:

• Previous experience serving as a research associate/data analyst or pursuing independent research as an undergraduate (or graduate student) is required.
• Proficiency with programming languages, such as Python and R is required.
• Experience working with microdata or with data from Federal statistical agencies such as the Census Bureau, BLS, and BEA is preferred.
• Strong interest in economics and public policy and aptitude for graduate-level research.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Demonstrated self-starter.

Application Instructions: Cover letter and resume are required. If you are graduating this academic year or have recently graduated, your resume should include overall GPA, GPA by field(s), a partial list of advanced courses taken in related disciplines listed above, and any computer skills, including coding languages.